CNC Machinist / Race Fabricator

Location: Pontiac, MI

Contract: 12 months, with potential for extension or direct hire

Pay Rate: $38–$45/hour, plus PTO and optional benefits

Shift: 1st Shift | Onsite

Schedule: 5:00 AM–2:00 PM or 6:00 AM–3:00 PM (flexible)

Overtime: Approximately 10 hours per week, depending on workload

Travel: Less than 5%, primarily for local training

Position Overview

Join a Performance and Racing Center in Pontiac, Michigan, supporting the manufacturing of high-performance racing engine components.

We're seeking an experienced CNC Machinist / Race Fabricator with strong hands-on skills in setting up, programming, and operating 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines. The ideal candidate can work independently, interpret complex engineering drawings, select appropriate tooling, and produce precision components to demanding quality standards.

If you're passionate about precision machining, motorsports, and high-performance engine development, this role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to competitive racing programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, program, and operate 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines to manufacture precision racing engine components.
• Perform machining operations using CNC mills, CNC lathes, and manual milling equipment.
• Develop and modify CNC programs independently using SURFCAM, Mastercam, or comparable software.
• Select cutting tools, machining speeds, feeds, and tooling configurations.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, work orders, and material specifications to plan machining operations.
• Apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Perform in-process inspections, verify dimensions, and complete finishing operations to meet specifications.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and make necessary program, tooling, and process adjustments.
• Maintain quality standards and perform preventive maintenance in accordance with equipment requirements.
• Coordinate with production scheduling to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality assurance, and engine assembly teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on machining efficiency, product quality, and team performance.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 5 years of hands-on CNC machining experience, or equivalent experience.
• Experience setting up and operating 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines.
• Ability to independently program CNC machining operations using SURFCAM, Mastercam, or comparable software.
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, tooling selection, machining speeds, and feeds.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Working knowledge of GD&T and dimensional inspection requirements.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining problems and make independent adjustments.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing to a team environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and overtime as production demands require.
• Ability to successfully complete required background and driving-record screenings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with both horizontal and vertical CNC machining centers.
• CNC lathe programming and operation experience.
• Proficiency with SURFCAM and Mastercam programming software.
• Familiarity with Fanuc, Haas, Hurco, Fadal, or Siemens CNC controllers.
• Experience manufacturing high-precision components for automotive, motorsports, or performance engine applications.

Work Environment

• Collaborative manufacturing team of approximately 13 employees, including seven CNC machinists.
• Regular interaction with production scheduling, quality assurance, engineering, and engine assembly teams.
• Hands-on environment emphasizing precision, accountability, teamwork, and independent problem-solving.
• Flexible first-shift scheduling options to support work-life balance.
• Limited local travel may be required for technical training, including Mastercam and other CNC programming courses.

Contract & Interview Details

Assignment: Initially a 52-week contract, with a strong possibility of extension and potential consideration for direct employment based on performance and business needs.

Interview Process: One approximately 60-minute Microsoft Teams interview with the hiring manager and an additional team representative.

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