Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Master CNC Machinist (Fulltime or Contract Work)

Job Code:                                                                     Plant Operation

FLSA Status:                                                                Non-Exempt

Steward Machine Company, a multi-generational, family-owned business with a proud and successful history spanning over 100 years.  We boast extensive lifting capacity and operate some of the largest CNC machinery globally, all housed within our expansive 290,000+ square feet of manufacturing space.  We offer complete turnkey solutions, handling everything from detailing shop drawings and fabricating to welding, stress relieving, machining, gear cutting, and assembly—all in-house. 

Steward Machine Co. is certified by AISC to the highest standard for fracture critical endorsement, reflecting our unwavering commitment to quality.  Our work is guided by 5 core principles: Relentless Work Ethic, a "Can Do Attitude," Excellence, Passion, and Adaptability. These principles drive us to consistently deliver exceptional results. We have proudly supplied equipment to some of the most demanding owners in the world, consistently getting the job done right the first time with a proven track record for on-time deliveries.

Your Mission

As a Master CNC Machinist, you will be instrumental in producing precision metal parts that meet the most exacting specifications for world-class projects. You will leverage your expertise in setting up and operating a wide variety of advanced machine tool equipment, interpreting complex blueprints, and utilizing diverse tools to ensure the flawless execution of every component. Your precision and skill will directly contribute to the creation of the robust, high-quality equipment Steward Machine Company is renowned for.

Your Key Responsibilities

·         Master cutting-edge conventional, special-purpose, and CNC machines and machining centers to precisely fabricate metallic parts.  Skillfully fit and assemble machined components into complete, high-performance units, applying your deep knowledge of machine shop theory, procedures, mathematics, material machinability, and layout techniques.

·         Demonstrate exceptional technical proficiency and expertise within the machining trade.

·         Exhibit self-motivation and a proactive approach in identifying and resolving needs and issues.

·         Accurately interpret complex blueprints, sketches, and verbal instructions to guide your work. 

·         Proactively understand upcoming work and requirements, communicating needs effectively to prevent production delays.

·         Diligently maintain comprehensive dimensional logs for all work and jobs processed on your machines, ensuring meticulous record-keeping.

·         Possess a thorough understanding of the applicable sections within the SMC QC manual, upholding our commitment to quality.

·         Maintain a consistently clean and organized work area, contributing to a safe and efficient environment.

·         Perform essential preventative maintenance checks, recognizing that quality control begins at the machine level.

·         Adhere to and champion all safety rules, ensuring the well-being of yourself and your colleagues.

·         Promptly report any equipment malfunctions to the appropriate authority, ensuring timely resolution and minimal downtime.

Where You'll Thrive

You will report directly to a supportive department lead, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

This vital position is based at our dynamic Plant 3 in Birmingham, Alabama, a hub of innovation and production.

What You Bring

Your Valued Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 ·         Demonstrated experience in heavy construction machining, ready to contribute to large-scale projects.

·         A self-starter with excellent customer service skills and a positive demeanor, capable of fostering strong working relationships with management and colleagues.

·         Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex blueprints, ensuring precision in every task.

·         Physical capability to lift and carry tools and materials weighing up to 50 pounds, supporting operational needs.

·         An eagerness to learn new skills and a collaborative spirit, actively contributing to team-based solutions.

·         Adeptness in operating various types of machinery essential to the trade, including milling and turning machines.

 Highly Valued Skills & Experience

·         Demonstrated expertise in CNC Machining, particularly with Vertical and Horizontal Lathes and Boring Mills, will be highly valued and leveraged in our advanced operations.

·         Proficiency in Basic Type Programming is a significant asset that will contribute to your success and our team's efficiency.

Education & Foundational Experience:

·         A minimum high school diploma or GED, or equivalent foundational experience, is essential.

·         One year of technical school or five years of hands-on machining experience provides a strong base for this role.

·         Completion of a four-year machining apprenticeship program is highly valued, and we proudly offer our own comprehensive apprenticeship program as a pathway to career growth and mastery.

·         Proficiency in reading, writing, and basic math (including fractions, decimals, and trigonometry) is crucial for success.

·         Demonstrated proficiency in using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and gages is required.

·         Ability to accurately read and interpret complicated drawings and blueprints is key.

·         Competence in operating overhead and jib cranes is necessary.

·         Skill in interpreting a variety of instructions, whether written, verbal, diagrammatic, or schedule-based, is important.

·         The capacity to solve complex technical problems with minimal direction is highly valued.

·         Versatility across different job tasks is a preferred attribute.

This job description provides a general overview of the role; however, the dynamic nature of our business means that duties may evolve and other responsibilities may be assigned to meet changing business needs. We embrace adaptability and growth within our team.

Please note that this job description does not constitute an employment contract or guarantee of employment.

Work Environment

Our manufacturing environment is dynamic and requires adherence to safety protocols. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally encounter moving mechanical parts, elevated work areas, fumes or airborne particles, varying weather conditions, temperature extremes, wet and/or humid conditions, and the presence of chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is typically moderate, and appropriate personal protective equipment is provided and required to ensure a safe working experience.

Physical Capabilities for Success

This role involves an active and engaging work environment.  To excel, you will regularly utilize your ability to stand, walk, sit, and use your hands for handling and reaching.  Occasional requirements include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, and the ability to discern smells.  You should be capable of occasionally lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds.  Key visual abilities for this position encompass close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus, all crucial for precision work.

Affirmative Action /EEO Statement

Steward Machine Company is a Federal VEVRAA contractor, and an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices. Steward Machine Company will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran or service member status, marital status, citizenship status (In IL - sex, including same sex, ancestry, order of protection status, physical or mental disability, military status, pregnancy, unfavorable discharge status, genetic information), (In IA - gender identity), (In CA - gender identity or expression, and genetic information) or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.

Limitation and Disclaimer

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.  Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities.  To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Steward Machine Company is an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. It is the Company's policy to provide equal opportunity for all qualified persons and to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, or any other legally protected status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and reserve the right to perform substance abuse testing as needed.