Machinist III, Lead
The PAC-3 program runs through this shop, and right now those parts need to move to Drawing 1 (D1) status. That means someone has to own fixture setup, work hand-in-hand with the programming team on part prove-out and First Article Inspection, and drive the process forward on Mazak 5-axis equipment. That someone is you.
What You'll Own
- Drive PAC-3 components from current state to D1: coordinate fixture design and setup, support programming, and lead part prove-out and FAI from day one.
- Get up to speed on the Mazak 5-axis horizontal machining centers and the Palletech robotic pallet system within your first 90 days, becoming the go-to resource on the floor for both.
- Lead setup, adjust programs, and operate complex multi-axis CNC equipment; validate new programs through first runs and first-article inspections.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for operators' day-to-day questions on setup, tooling, job routing, and troubleshooting; mentor Machinist I and II team members and help keep work moving efficiently on shift.
- When no Supervisor or Manager is on shift, act as the floor's first point of contact for safety incidents and personnel concerns: ensure immediate safety steps are taken, document factual observations, and contact on-call leadership or HR right away. All investigation and disciplinary decisions stay with leadership.
- Partner with Engineering and CNC programmers to reduce scrap, hold tight tolerances, and recommend design-for-manufacturing improvements; contribute to continuous improvement, lean, and 5S initiatives.
Note: Lead is a non-exempt, non-supervisory role. You set the tone on the floor through example, not authority.
What We Bring
Delva Tool & Machine is an AS9100 Rev D certified precision shop in Cinnaminson, NJ, producing aerospace and defense components that end up in programs like PAC-3. We hold tolerances to +/-0.0002" across aluminum, titanium, stainless, and tool steels. Our floor runs two shifts on Vertical Mills, Lathes, Swiss Lathes, and Mazak 5-axis horizontals with robotic loaders and automated pallet systems. This is not a commodity job shop. The work is complex, the standards are high, and the mission is real.
What You Bring
Must-Have- 5+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience, including multi-axis or 5-axis equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to set up and adjust programs on CNC machining centers without hand-holding.
- Experience with fixture setup and part prove-out, including FAI processes.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and job routers.
- Working knowledge of feeds, speeds, and tooling selection for aluminum and at least one exotic alloy (titanium, stainless, tool steel).
- High School Diploma or GED, Trade/Vocational Certificate, Associate's Degree, or equivalent work experience.
- Authorization to work on ITAR-controlled aerospace and defense components.
Nice-to-Have- Direct experience on Mazak 5-axis horizontal machining centers and/or Palletech automated pallet systems.
- Familiarity with AS9100 quality standards and participation in shop-floor audits.
- Prior lead or mentor experience on a machine shop floor.
- Experience on PAC-3 or similar defense program components.
Pay
$30.00 - $43.00/hr ($62,400 - $89,440/yr)
1st shift (days). Pay range already reflects any applicable role premiums.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off.
How to Apply
Apply directly through this posting. Include any relevant experience with 5-axis machining, fixture setup, or aerospace/defense programs in your application or resume. Qualified candidates will be contacted for a phone screen.
We are a drug-free workplace / Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibit Discrimination and Harassment of Any Kind: We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual experience and qualifications, without regard to a person's sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, disability, race, creed, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.