Full job description

Thomas Instrument

• Is a leading privately held provider of engineering solutions and manufacturing excellence for complex, critical aerospace flight control hardware.
• Has a stable workload (varied customer base) with a strong domestic and international reputation for quality and integrity.
• Has two engineering and manufacturing facilities.
• Offers all phases of product development and lifecycle management, supporting a highly diverse product mix. Thomas Instrument is AS9100D, NADCAP, and FAA certified.
• Has a friendly atmosphere and an outstanding safety record.
• Offers full benefits, including an immediately vested 5% match to 401k plan.

Job Description:

The CNC Machinist – Prototype Shop is responsible for setting up, programming (as required), and operating CNC mills and lathes to manufacture first-article, prototype, and development components in support of engineering and new product introduction efforts.

This position requires a high level of technical skill, independence, and problem-solving ability, as parts are often non-repetitive, low-volume, and complex in geometry and tolerance. The machinist works closely with Engineering, Quality, and Operations to develop manufacturable solutions and validate processes prior to production release.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes to produce prototype and first-article components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and 3D models to determine machining strategy.
• Perform program edits at the machine and/or develop CNC programs as required.
• Select appropriate tooling, fixtures, speeds, and feeds for complex materials.
• Manufacture tight-tolerance components in low-volume or one-off configurations.
• Collaborate directly with Manufacturing and Design Engineers to refine processes and improve manufacturability.
• Identify potential design or tolerance concerns and communicate proactively with Engineering.
• Perform in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment (micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, height gauges, etc.).
• Support First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements.
• Assist in developing and documenting repeatable processes for transition to production.
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized work area in accordance with safety standards.
• Adhere to quality system requirements and documentation procedures.

Job Requirements and Qualifications:

Required Skills

• Advanced CNC setup capability on both mills and lathes.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation.
• Ability to independently determine machining sequence for complex parts.
• Experience machining aerospace materials.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting ability.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced prototype/development environment.
• Effective communication with engineers and quality personnel.
• Strong attention to detail and quality focus.

Knowledge and Experience

• 5+ years CNC machining experience; prototype or R&D environment preferred.
• Experience with both vertical/horizontal mills and CNC lathes.
• Experience performing first-article and tight tolerance work.
• Understanding of quality systems (AS9100 experience preferred).
• Experience working from CAM software preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or apprenticeship preferred.

Physical and Work Environment

• Manufacturing shop environment with exposure to moving machinery, noise, and metalworking fluids.
• Requires standing for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed.

Work Eligibility (ITAR): This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required. “US Person” includes US Citizen, lawful permanent resident or persons with protected status. Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Thank you for your interest. Due to the volume of applications, only applicants chosen for further consideration will be contacted.

While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Thomas Instrument Inc. will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume

To apply for this position, apply online at www.thomasinstrument.com

Thomas Instrument is an EEO employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, medical condition (GINA), or disability

Benefits:

• 401(k) 5% Match
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Work Eligibility (ITAR): This position requires compliance with U.S. Export Control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). To meet eligibility requirements, applicants must qualify as a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15. U.S. Persons include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain protected individuals, including legally recognized refugees and asylees.

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States and able to meet ITAR U.S. Person eligibility requirements?

• What is the single strongest skill or experience you believe makes you a fit for this position?

Ability to Commute:

• Brookshire, TX 77423 (Required)

Work Location: In person