Machine Operator
Location: Toano, VA
Compensation: $20–$25/hour, depending on experience and capability
Shifts: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift openings
About the Role
Greystone is seeking dependable CNC Machine Operators to operate Fanuc Robodrill and HAAS vertical machining centers in a production environment.
This is an operator position, not a CNC programming or setup position. Machines, programs, tooling, and processes will be established by our machining and engineering teams.
The primary responsibilities are loading and unloading parts, monitoring machine operation, performing routine inspections, documenting results, and identifying problems before they result in defective product.
This is a good fit for someone who is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, comfortable working around automated equipment, and capable of following established processes consistently.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation
- Operate Fanuc Robodrill and HAAS vertical machining centers
- Load and unload parts and fixtures
- Start established CNC programs and monitor machines during production
- Follow standardized work instructions and established production processes
- Maintain expected production rates and cycle times
- Identify unusual machine conditions, tool wear, alarms, or production issues
- Stop production and notify the appropriate personnel when problems are identified
Inspection & Quality
- Perform in-process inspections according to established inspection plans
- Use basic inspection equipment including calipers, drop gauges, indicators, and other go/no-go gauges
- Verify parts meet dimensional requirements before continuing production
- Record inspection results and production information accurately
- Identify and segregate nonconforming material
- Maintain traceability and follow established quality procedures
Machine & Work Area Maintenance
- Maintain machine and work-area cleanliness
- Remove chips and replenish coolant as required
- Perform basic operator-level preventive maintenance
- Monitor coolant levels, lubrication, tooling condition, and machine condition
- Report maintenance concerns promptly
Production Support
- Work with machinists, engineers, quality personnel, and supervisors to resolve production issues
- Follow established tooling and workholding procedures
- Participate in continuous improvement activities
- Support changeovers and setups when directed, but independent CNC setup is not required
Qualifications
Required
- Mechanical aptitude and willingness to work with CNC manufacturing equipment
- Ability to follow written work instructions and established processes
- Ability to read basic engineering drawings and dimensional requirements
- Ability to use or learn basic inspection equipment such as calipers and gauges
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to recognize abnormal machine conditions and escalate problems appropriately
- Dependable attendance and ability to work independently once trained
Preferred
- Previous experience operating CNC machines, machining equipment, automated production equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery
- Experience with HAAS or Fanuc CNC controls
- Experience using calipers, micrometers, drop gauges, or other inspection equipment
- Previous experience in precision manufacturing
- Basic understanding of tolerances and engineering drawings
CNC programming and independent machine setup experience are not required.
Who Thrives in This Role
- People who are mechanically inclined and comfortable working with machinery
- Operators who pay attention to details and notice when something does not look or sound right
- People who can follow a defined process consistently
- Employees who take ownership of quality rather than simply producing parts
- Individuals who are dependable, productive, and comfortable working independently
- People who are willing to learn and develop additional machining skills over time
Why Greystone
- Privately owned since 1932
- Stable manufacturing environment
- Modern CNC equipment including Fanuc Robodrills and HAAS vertical machining centers
- Opportunities to learn machining, inspection, setup, and other advanced manufacturing skills
- Direct involvement in precision manufacturing and new production programs
- Opportunities for increased responsibility and advancement based on capability
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
Application Questions
- Do you have experience operating CNC machines or other automated manufacturing equipment? If so, please describe.
- Do you have experience using calipers, micrometers, gauges, or other inspection equipment?
- Do you have experience reading engineering drawings or working with dimensional tolerances?
- Which shifts are you available to work?
Experience
Manufacturing or machine operation: 1 year preferred
Equivalent mechanical experience from automotive repair, maintenance, fabrication, machine operation, industrial equipment, or similar hands-on work will also be considered.
Shift Availability
- 2pm-10pm
- 10pm-6am
Work Location: In person