Machinist/Tool and Die Maker

Upwing Energy is searching for an experienced Machinist/Tool and Die Maker. The machinist’s focus is to be a member of our cross-functional team that will operate lathes mills and balancers along with other cutting equipment.

The Machinist/Tool and Die Maker will be responsible for operating and maintaining manual machine tools-including lathes, mills, grinders, saws and balancers—to fabricate, modify and repair metal parts and instruments with precision. The ideal candidate will be proficient in interpreting engineering blueprints, selecting appropriate tools and materials, and ensuring all components meet exact specifications through precise measurements, thorough inspections and strict adherence to quality assurance protocols.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

- Operate precision tools and machinery including manual horizontal lathes (primary), vertical mills(primary), drill presses, band saws and hydraulic presses, along with other machine shop equipment.

- Fabricate and shape components from metal, plastic and composite materials to meet exact specifications.

- Interpret blueprints and use measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to maintain tolerances within ±0.001”.

- Set up and align tooling, fixtures and materials safely and efficiently on various machines.

- Perform routine maintenance and daily cleaning of equipment.

- Follow all safety protocols and quality standards, while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

- Estimate machining hours per job/month.

- Tool maker and Management.

- Support other areas of the shop as needed.

- Develop skills in balancing and machining setup processes.

- Demonstrate proficiency in using metrology equipment to inspect and ensure machined parts meet required tolerances and quality standards.

Skills, Experience, Education, and Abilities:

- High school diploma or equivalent.

- At least 10 years of manual machining experience.

- Strong understanding of metal properties, machinability and tool usage.

- Familiarity with blueprint reading, GD&T and estimating time/materials for machining tasks.

- Physically able to lift to 50 lbs. and operate overhead cranes.

- Comfortable with standing and manual dexterity work for extended periods.

- Hands-on experience with metrology equipment.

- Balancing experience a plus.

- Experience in machining harder metals. Inconel 718, 17-4 SS, Titanium, 4340 and other tougher metals.

- Grinding experience is a plus.

- Able to work independently.

Intangibles Sought:

- Must be initiative-taking and an independent worker.

- Must be a team player.

- Flexibility in range of responsibilities.

- Ownership, initiative and accountability.

- Self-awareness: not afraid to ask for help or admit error.

- Able to exercise independent judgment and make logical decisions on technical issues.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

This position will be in the shop environment 90% of the time. Personal protective equipment MUST be worn in designated shop floor areas. On a limited basis, there may be opportunities for field testing and equipment commissioning.