CNC Apprentice

Company Description

Fort Walton Machining, Inc. was formed in 1987 as a specialized custom manufacturing operation, specifically to service Eglin Air Force Base and its prime contractors. It began as a small company with only two employees, but its mission—even then, as it remains today—was to provide highly technical, precision machining with zero defects, delivered on time, and to the complete satisfaction of its customers.

Commitment to that mission quickly earned the company a reputation for “walking the walk,” not just “talking the talk.” As evidence of this, Fort Walton Machining became a certified “Dock to Stock” supplier for one of its major customers as early as 1991.

Certified to AS9100 Quality Standards, as well as government and military standards such as MIL-I-45208A, the company played a significant role in the Air Force AMRAAM project from 1991 to 1993. The long-term vision was always to expand into commercial markets while continuing to serve the military and its prime contractors.

In early 1995, the company formed a business alliance with a major corporation in the medical industry, which led to additional business opportunities with partners in the British Isles and Japan. As a result of these diverse experiences, Fort Walton Machining has grown into an international service company, capable of supporting customers around the world.

Job Description

We’re looking for a motivated, self-driven individual ready to launch their manufacturing career as a CNC Apprentice. This is a structured opportunity for someone who is passionate about learning the trade and becoming a skilled CNC Machinist or Programmer in the future.

As a CNC Apprentice, you’ll learn the fundamentals of machining while assisting experienced machinists. You’ll gain exposure to CNC operations, precision measurement, tooling, and safety procedures. This is a hands-on role with real growth potential.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities.

Assists in the setup and operation of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines and machining centers to fabricate metallic and non-metallic parts according to precise specifications. This entry-level role supports experienced machinists while learning fundamental skills in machining, measurement, tooling, and safety. The CNC Apprentice will gain hands-on experience in interpreting blueprints, understanding machine programming concepts, performing basic part inspections, and executing routine machine operations. This position is designed to develop the skills necessary to become a fully qualified CNC Machinist or Programmer through structured, on-the-job training and mentorship.

Qualifications

Qualifications

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

Must be at least 18 years old.

Any experience working in a machine shop.

Enrolled in CNC Program or MSSC-CPT (preferred).

Physical Demands

This position requires regular physical activity, including standing or walking for extended periods, using hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, reaching with arms, and performing motions such as stooping, kneeling, or crawling. Verbal communication and active listening are also essential. Climbing or balancing may be required occasionally. The role involves regularly lifting and/or moving up to 20 pounds and frequently up to 50 pounds. Visual requirements include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Additionally, this role requires approximately 10% local travel to support operations at our nearby facility.

Additional Information

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Fort Walton Machining, Inc. is a drug-free workplace. Testing for illegal drugs is required prior to hire and may be conducted periodically during employment.

Reasonable Accommodation: Fort Walton Machining, Inc. will provide reasonable accommodation to all applicants and employees. If you need an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact Dan Bowman at (850) 244-9095.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Fort Walton Machining, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, promotions, and termination.

We comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited to Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA), Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).