General Summary:
The R&D Machining Technician performs machine shop duties to produce a wide variety of precision parts by designing the manufacturing process flow, creating NC programs, designing and producing supporting fixtures, selecting optimal cutting tools, setting up equipment, tooling, and fixtures and operating mills, lathes, and other supporting equipment.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Layout process flows required to produce precision machined parts. Create NC programs for the operation of multi-axis turning centers, 3 & 5 axis CNC machining centers, waterjet tables, and other supporting equipment. Select and request the required cutting tools for optimal machining of precision machine parts. Create complex programs to support operation of multi axis lathes and machining centers to support complex aircraft machined detail parts. Design and fabricate workholding fixtures to secure materials during machining operations. Use band saws, waterjet and other related equipment to prepare raw materials. Setup equipment, tooling, and fixtures and operate mills, lathes, and other supporting equipment in the fabrication of precision machined parts. Inspect parts produced using precision metrology equipment and prepare reports for Quality review and acceptance. Selects proper tooling, edits programs and adjusts speeds and feeds as required to optimize production. Works with production, engineering, and quality to resolve issues. Maintains equipment and perform required PMs to insure proper operation. Work in a productive and efficient manner and provide ideas for continuous improvement. Continuously improve job knowledge by participating in educational classes; reading technical publications, and cross-training.
Education, Experience, Certification and/or Licensure:
High School diploma or GED equivalent required Formal Journeyman, Apprentice, training, or schooling preferred. 5+ years experience in equivalent position. Aerospace experience preferred. Machining experience including manual and CNC Multi Axis lathes, 3-5 axis mills (Hurco). Experience with FDM 3D printers, associates software and materials.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Proficient in fixture/tool design (holding fixtures, form blocks, joggle dies, drill templates) to support low quantity or prototype detail parts. Ability to work in fast paced R&D environment. Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and technical instructions. Ability to maintain a safe and organized work environment by following procedures and wearing appropriate PPE. Ability to work independently with minimal training or supervision. CADCAM experience (Gibbscam preferred). Experience with model based machining, CATIA environment, 3D printers, Insight software, GrabCAD Print software and OMAX waterjet machine/software a plus. Experience with FAA certification processes and requirements preferred. Familiarity with AS9100 management systems and compliance requirements