Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Saginaw, MI

The CNC Machinist Apprentice sets up and operates a variety of machine tools to produce precision metal parts and instruments to specification. This is a paid, entry-level training position within Bay Cast Technologies' U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program. The apprentice works under the direct supervision of a journeyworker machinist and progresses through a structured combination of on-the-job learning (6,004–7,500 hours) and related technical classroom instruction (a minimum of 885 hours), applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures. Upon successful completion of the program, the apprentice is eligible for a U.S. Department of Labor Certificate of Completion as a journey-level Machinist.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Under supervision, and with responsibilities expanding as competencies are achieved, the apprentice will:

• Measure, calculate, and verify part dimensions and tolerances using micrometers, vernier calipers, and other precision instruments.

• Set up and operate cutting equipment, including lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders, to machine parts to specification.

• Set up and operate grinding equipment and metal or plastic forming equipment.

• Program computers and electronic instruments, including numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, to perform production tasks.

• Monitor the feed, speed, and output of machines during the machining process to ensure proper functioning and conformance to specification.

• Study and interpret blueprints, drawings, and engineering information to determine operational methods and sequences.

• Maintain machine tools and production equipment in proper operating condition.

• Fit, assemble, and repair machine tools, parts, and fixtures.

• Support metalworking projects from planning and fabrication through assembly, inspection, and testing.

• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, and accessories onto machines; install repaired or new parts and equipment.

• Conduct test runs of production equipment and experimental models to verify operational efficiency and design feasibility.

• Confer with numerical control programmers, engineering, supervisory, and manufacturing personnel to exchange technical information and ensure programs and output meet specification.

• Evaluate machining procedures and recommend changes or modifications to improve efficiency, quality, or adaptability.

• Design or assist in designing tooling, fixtures, or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs.

• Diagnose machine tool malfunctions and determine the need for adjustments or repairs; dismantle equipment as needed to examine and replace defective parts.

• Lay out, measure, and mark metal stock to indicate placement of cuts.

• Set up and operate metalworking, brazing, heat-treating, welding, or cutting equipment as required.

• Sort and dispose of scrap or waste material in accordance with company policy and environmental regulations.

• Attend and satisfactorily complete all required related instruction coursework outside of scheduled work hours (unpaid, per program requirements).

• Follow all safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

• Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervising journeyworker or shop supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• GED or High School Diploma required (or actively in process of attainment).

Experience

• No prior machining experience required; this is an entry-level, structured training position.

Certificates, Licenses, and Other Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder); required due to ITAR regulations.

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to the facility required.

• Must pass a criminal background check, drug test, and physical examination as a condition of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic math proficiency, including fractions, decimals, and geometry, for measurements and tolerances.

• Ability to read and use a tape measure, calipers, and micrometers.

• Basic computer literacy, including the ability to learn CNC controls and CAM software.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, blueprints, and engineering specifications.

• Ability to work both independently and under direct supervision in a team environment.

• Willingness to learn, strong attention to detail, and a positive, safety-first attitude.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an apprentice to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to continuously stand or walk for extended periods.

• Ability to bend, reach, and lift materials.

• Ability to climb up onto and down from ladders and equipment.

• Ability to lift 25–50 lbs.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a manufacturing shop environment involving exposure to machinery, metal stock, cutting fluids, and noise typical of a machine shop. Apprentices are required to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all established safety protocols at all times. The position may require work on assigned shifts, including overtime, based on production needs.

Apprenticeship Program Requirements

• Program length: 3 – 3.75 years, consisting of 6,004–7,500 hours of on-the-job learning plus a minimum of 885 hours (49 credit hours) of related technical instruction.

• Apprentice-to-journeyworker supervision ratio: 1:1.

• Probationary period: first 1,000 hours of the apprenticeship.

• Apprentices are paid a progressively increasing wage as on-the-job hours and required competencies are completed. 

• Apprentices must sign a Training Repayment Agreement regarding continued employment with Bay Cast Technologies, LLC following completion of the program.

Required Related Instruction (885 Hours / 49 Credit Hours)

In addition to on-the-job training, the apprentice must complete the following related technical coursework:

• Blueprint Reading

• Applied Geometry & Trigonometry

• Introduction to Machining Processes

• Safety Practices & Procedures

• Geometric Tolerancing (GD&T)

• Machine Tools Lab I and Machine Tools Lab II

• Applied Physics

• CNC Theory

• Introduction to CAM

• CNC with Machining Applications

• Industrial Rigging & Safety

• Mastercam

• CNC Multi-Axis

• Machinery's Handbook