Machinist

Job Title: Machinist – CNC & Gear Hobbing
Location: Courtland, MN
Reports To: Plant Manager
Department: Manufacturing
Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: Starting at $35/hr.

Job Overview:

The Machinist – CNC & Hobbing is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC mills, CNC lathes, and gear-hobbing machines used in the production of precision components for electric motors and slew-drive gearboxes. This role ensures that all machined parts meet engineering specifications, quality requirements, and production deadlines. The machinist will work closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to troubleshoot issues and continuously improve machining processes.

Key Responsibilities:

CNC Machining

• Set up and operate CNC machines (mills and/or lathes) to produce precision components used in motors and

slew-drive gearboxes.

• Load programs, perform offsets, tool changes, and verify proper machine operations.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T symbols, and work instructions.
• Measure finished parts using calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and other precision tools.

Gear Hobbing / Gear Cutting

• Set up and operate gear-hobbing machines to cut gear teeth on internal or external components used in slew- v drive gearboxes.
• Perform calculations or input parameters to achieve correct pitch diameter, pressure angle, and tooth count.
• Inspect gears for conformity to AGMA standards or internal specifications.

Machine Maintenance & Optimization

• Perform basic machine maintenance including lubrication, tool replacement, and cleaning.
• Identify tooling wear, recommend new tooling, and assist with optimizing feeds, speeds, and tool life.
• Troubleshoot machining issues including chatter, surface finish, or dimensional deviations.

Quality & Documentation

• Conduct in-process inspections and document results.
• Maintain accurate production logs, tool usage records, and job setup sheets.
• Work with Quality Control to resolve non-conformances.
• Ensure the proper handling and identification of materials, parts, and fixtures.

Safety & Teamwork

• Follow all company safety guidelines and wear appropriate PPE.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and maintenance teams to resolve process issues or machine downtime.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts (5S, Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing).

Working Conditions:

• This position is based in Courtland, MN and involves working in a manufacturing environment.
• You may be required to work overtime or additional shifts as needed to meet production deadlines.
• Machine shop environment with exposure to coolant, lubricants, and noise.
• The work environment may involve exposure to noise, mechanical parts, and various electrical tools or machines.

Why Join Us?

At River Valley Motion Control LLC, we are committed to producing high-quality electric motors for a wide range of applications. We offer competitive pay, a safe work environment, and opportunities for advancement within the company. As part of our team, you will have the chance to grow your skills and contribute to the success of a growing manufacturing company.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent is required; technical or trade school certification preferred.
• Experience:
  • Previous experience in CNC machining and/or gear hobbing is preferred but not required.
  • Experience producing precision components used in gearboxes, motors, or other rotating machinery is a plus.
• Skills:
  • Ability to follow detailed work instructions and technical drawings.
  • Proficient with micrometers, calipers, indicators, and precision measurement tools.
  • Basic math skills for measuring components and checking tolerances.
  • Attention to detail and the ability to identify defects in materials and products.
  • Computer literacy (CNC interface navigation, basic PC usage).
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment while maintaining focus on quality.
• Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, bend, and kneel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to lift up to [weight limit, e.g., 50 pounds] and carry materials to and from workstations.
  • Capable of working in a manufacturing environment with moderate noise levels and varying temperatures.

Preferred Qualifications (Optional):

• Experience in Gear hobbing machines.
• CNC controls such as Haas, Fanuc, Siemens, or Mazak.
• Basic understanding of quality control processes and standards (e.g., ISO, Six Sigma).