Wire EDM Setup/Operator - 1st Shift

ABOUT QUALITEX

Qualitex NE LLC is a precision CNC contract manufacturer in Columbia City, Indiana, producing medical device components, external fixation, surgical instruments, and implants for leading OEMs in the orthopedic and medical device space. We run Swiss-type turning, 3- and 5-axis milling, wire EDM, grinding, electropolish, and laser marking under ISO 13485 and FDA 21 CFR Part 820 quality systems.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We're looking for a Wire EDM Setup / Operator to own our Sodick wire EDM work from setup through final inspection. You'll cut tight-tolerance profiles, slots and features on medical instruments and components, plus one-off fixtures and tooling for our CNC departments. This is a hands-on role for someone who can pick up a print, set up the job, dial in the cut and hand off good parts with clean paperwork.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up and run Sodick wire EDMs on medical device components, instruments and tooling in titanium, 300/400 series and 17-4 stainless and tool steels
• Load and indicate parts and fixtures, square and align to the table, pick up edges, centers, and start holes, and set work coordinates at the control
• Thread and auto-thread wire (AWT), choose wire type and diameter, and set up upper/lower guides and flushing for the job
• Load programs, select cutting conditions for the material and thickness, and run rough and skim passes to hit size, finish, and corner requirements
• Drill start holes (EDM hole popper or drill) and manage slugs, tabs, and part drop-out so parts aren't damaged
• Make offset and condition adjustments to hold tight tolerances (to ±.0002") and profile accuracy; edit programs at the control as needed
• Perform first-article and in-process inspection with micrometers, pins, height gauge, optical comparator/vision system, and CMM support; complete inspection records
• Follow work instructions, travelers, and lot traceability requirements under ISO 13485 and FDA 21 CFR Part 820; record nonconformances
• Maintain the machines: water resistivity and conductivity, resin and filter changes, guides, power feed contacts, rollers, and wire waste; keep the area clean and organized
• Support NPI and toolroom work with one-off EDM cuts for fixtures, form tools, and gauges; train and support newer operators

REQUIREMENTS

• 3+ years of wire EDM experience, including independent setups (not load-and-go only)
• Hands-on experience on Sodick wire EDMs, or strong experience on another brand (Mitsubishi, Makino, Fanuc) with willingness to cross-train
• Strong print reading and GD&T; comfortable with profile, true position, and tight-tolerance features
• Skilled with precision measurement: micrometers, calipers, pins and gauge blocks, height gauge, and indicators
• Understanding of how wire type, flushing, and cutting conditions affect size, finish, and wire breaks
• Attention to detail and documentation discipline suitable for a regulated medical device shop
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen and background check

NICE TO HAVE

• Sodick LN-series control experience and Sodick conditions/technology tables
• CAM programming for wire EDM (Esprit, Mastercam Wire, Heart NC, or similar), including taper and 4-axis cuts
• Sinker EDM, EDM hole popper, or surface grinding experience
• Medical device, aerospace, or tool & die background
• Experience cutting titanium and hardened tool steels

WORK ENVIRONMENT

In-person, Columbia City, Indiana manufacturing facility. Shop runs 1st shift (7:00am–3:00pm), Monday–Friday, with weekend work as needed. Work involves standing, lifting to 40 lbs, and handling EDM water, resin, and filters.

BENEFITS

Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; SIMPLE IRA with 3% company match; on-the-job training and advancement opportunities.

To apply, send your resume to Qualitex NE LLC or apply through our posting.

Pay: $24.00 - $34.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 – 50.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person