Cnc Apprentice Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Attention! Now Hiring …

Looking forward to your next big opportunity?

Whelan Machine is growing, and we want YOU to join our team!

We’re proud to be part of the Department of Defense (DoD) and offer you a chance to work in an exciting, fast-paced industry.

Supporting the mission with world-class precision is at the heart of what we do.

Whelan Machine is a mission-critical supplier of high-precision machining for the U.S defense industrial base. We offer quarterly incentive pay and the opportunity to work in our new and improved 70,000-square foot facility!

• Competitive pay
• Great benefits
• Quarterly incentive pays
• A workplace that values YOUR skill and growth
• Be part of the DoD and helping make a difference
• Supporting the mission with world-class precision
• Brand-new 70,000 sq. ft. facility

Our mission is to build a world-class team of skilled professionals, and we want YOU to be a part of it.

If you're in Louisville or nearby, don't miss this opportunity!

Apply today and become part of the Whelan family.

POSITION SUMMARY

The CNC Machinist sets up and operates computer numerically controlled (CNC) milling and/or turning equipment to produce precision-machined components in support of Whelan Machine & Tool's defense manufacturing programs. This role is responsible for interpreting engineering drawings, selecting appropriate tooling and work-holding, and executing first-article and production runs to contract requirements, while maintaining the quality, safety, and traceability standards required of a defense supplier.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Setup and Operation

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T callouts, and work instructions to determine machining sequence, tooling, and fixturing.

• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, or multi-axis machining centers, including offsets, work coordinates, and tool registers.

• Select, install, and adjust cutting tools, fixtures, and work-holding devices appropriate to material and tolerance requirements.

• Edit or adjust CNC programs at the control (offsets, feeds, speeds) as needed; escalate program-level changes to Manufacturing Engineering.

• Perform first-article inspection and in-process checks using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM as applicable).

Quality and Compliance

• Maintain dimensional accuracy and surface finish within specified tolerances on close-tolerance, aerospace/defense-grade components.

• Complete required inspection records, traveler documentation, and Certificates of Conformance in accordance with quality system procedures.

• Identify and flag nonconforming material or process deviations promptly; support root-cause and corrective-action activities as needed.

• Follow all applicable ITAR, CMMC, and export-control handling procedures for controlled technical data and hardware.

Safety and Equipment Care

• Perform routine machine maintenance, coolant checks, and housekeeping to keep equipment in safe operating condition.

• Follow all plant safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, PPE requirements, and machine guarding protocols.

• Report equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, or near-miss events in accordance with plant reporting procedures.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a machinist apprenticeship, technical program, or equivalent trade certification preferred.

• 2–5 years of hands-on CNC machining experience in a job-shop or precision manufacturing environment; defense or aerospace machining experience strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to set up and run CNC mills and/or lathes with minimal supervision.

• Working knowledge of G-code/M-code and CNC control interfaces (Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, or comparable).

• Proficiency reading blueprints, GD&T, and interpreting engineering revisions.

• Skilled use of precision measuring instruments and basic inspection methods.

• Understanding of metal cutting principles, feeds/speeds, and tooling selection across common aerospace-grade alloys.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple work orders, and meet production schedules on FFP program deadlines.

PHYSICAL & ITAR REQUIREMENTS

• Access to ITAR-controlled technical data and CUI requires verification of U.S. Person status prior to employment.

• Ability to stand for extended periods on a manufacturing floor; regularly lift and carry up to 35 lbs.; frequent bending, reaching, and use of hand tools; use of appropriate PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe footwear) at all times on the production floor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• This position is performed on the Whelan Machine & Tool production floor, a manufacturing environment with exposure to machine noise, cutting fluids, and moving equipment. Standard shift schedules apply; overtime may be required to support production and delivery commitments.

Whelan Machine & Tool, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. This position requires access to information subject to U.S. export control regulations (ITAR/EAR); employment is contingent upon verification of U.S. Person status.