CNC Machinist (Defense)

CNC Machinist III

Fairbanks Morse Defense | Walpole, MA

Shift Openings: 2nd Shift and 3rd Shift
2nd Shift Hours: 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM
3rd Shift Hours: 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM

Build What Matters. Support the Mission.

At Fairbanks Morse Defense, the work you do has a direct impact on the people who protect our nation.

We are a trusted provider of critical power and propulsion solutions for Naval Defense. Our Walpole, Massachusetts facility supports mission-critical manufacturing, including precision CNC machining of large-scale defense components. Here, safety, quality, precision, and craftsmanship are more than expectations—they are part of our culture.

If you are an experienced machinist who takes pride in precision work and wants the opportunity to contribute to critical defense programs, this is an opportunity to put your skills to work on products that truly matter.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Machinist III to join our production team in Walpole, MA. This position is available on 2nd shift and 3rd shift.

In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining advanced CNC equipment, including 4-axis and 5-axis milling and turning centers, to produce complex components such as hubs and CPP propellers.

This position requires strong technical machining skills, precision, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented production environment. CNC Machinists play a direct role in supporting U.S. Navy readiness by producing mission-critical components to exacting defense-grade standards.

What You'll Do

• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and complex 4-axis and 5-axis machining centers to produce component parts in accordance with engineering drawings, internal sketches, work instructions, and other specifications
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work instructions, including GD&T requirements
• Select appropriate tooling, adjust offsets, and verify machine parameters for complex part geometries
• Perform in-process and final quality checks using micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments
• Perform secondary operations as needed, including deburring, polishing, and grinding
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment in accordance with company and DoD standards
• Complete required production, quality, and maintenance documentation
• Collaborate with supervisors, engineers, Quality Control, and fellow machinists to troubleshoot and resolve production issues
• Communicate with Engineering and Quality teams to ensure finished components meet required specifications
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the position

Required Qualifications

To be successful in this position, you will need:

• High School Diploma or GED required
• 2+ years of experience as a Machinist
• Experience setting up and operating CNC machining equipment
• Knowledge of machining fundamentals, including G-code, M-code, and shop mathematics
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic, geometric, and algebraic calculations
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and GD&T
• Proficiency with precision measuring and inspection tools
• Ability to properly wear required PPE
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical activities including bending, stooping, reaching above the shoulders, pulling, pushing, and climbing stairs
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to defense contract work
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications

We'd be especially interested in candidates who bring:

• Associate Degree in Machining, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field
• CNC Machining Technology certification or equivalent CNC machining certification
• Experience with 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machining
• Prior experience in defense, aerospace, marine, or other precision manufacturing environments
• Experience with Fanuc or Siemens CNC controls
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, or TPM principles
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Experience machining large, complex, tight-tolerance components

Why This Opportunity Matters

This isn't simply a CNC machining position. Your work will contribute to the production of mission-critical components supporting the U.S. Navy and Naval Defense.

You'll have the opportunity to apply your machining expertise to complex, highly precise components while working alongside experienced machinists, engineers, and quality professionals in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Bring your machining skills. Build precision components. Support the mission.