At Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company (EBAD), we believe that our strengths are built on our most important resource - our people. Join EBAD and you'll be a part of a team who creates cutting edge technology that will blast us into the future. No other company can match the innovative energetic solutions that we provide. At EBAD you will actively contribute to successful missions putting men, women and satellites into space, and protecting our armed service men and women around the world. If this is the culture and work environment you are seeking, then EBAD is the place for you!
Job Description
Job Title: Machine Shop Assistant
Department: Machine Shop / Manufacturing
Reports To: Machine Shop Supervisor
Location: Aerospace Manufacturing Facility
Job Summary
The Machining Assistant supports daily production activities in an aerospace machine shop. This role is responsible for assisting machinists with tooling preparation, part handling, deburring, packaging, equipment maintenance, and laser marking. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and capable of working in a regulated aerospace manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Tooling Support
- Assist machinists with tool preparation, presetting, cleaning, and organization
- Help maintain tooling inventory and report worn or damaged tools
- Ensure tooling is properly labeled, stored, and handled
Deburring & Part Finishing
- Perform manual deburring, edge breaking, and basic finishing per work instructions
- Use hand tools, abrasives, and pneumatic tools safely and effectively
- Ensure parts meet dimensional, visual, and cosmetic requirements
Packaging & Shipping Preparation
- Package machined parts per aerospace specifications to prevent damage or contamination
- Apply proper identification, labeling, and documentation
- Assist with kitting and preparation for internal or external processing
Laser Marking
- Operate laser marking equipment under established procedures
- Verify part orientation, marking location, and content per drawings or customer requirements
- Inspect marked parts for clarity, accuracy, and compliance
Assembly
- Performs manual/mechanized assembly operations
- Responsible for adhering to all safety and quality requirements
- Process specifications using hand tools, machinery, air presses, jigs and other equipment and tooling
- Must be able to follow work instructions
Shop Maintenance & Organization
- Assist with machine cleaning, chip removal, and coolant maintenance
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area (5S practices)
- Perform basic preventive maintenance tasks as directed
Quality & Safety
- Follow all safety rules, PPE requirements, and shop procedures
- Comply with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR, customer requirements)
- Report nonconforming parts, damaged equipment, or safety concerns promptly
Additional Responsibilities
- Support production flow and meet delivery schedules
- Assist with other shop tasks as needed
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to read and follow work instructions and shop travelers
- Basic mechanical aptitude and hand tool experience
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Willingness to follow strict safety and quality requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in a machine shop or manufacturing environment
- Familiarity with aerospace parts and documentation
- Experience with deburring, laser marking, or packaging precision components
- Basic understanding of blueprints and GD&T
- Forklift or shop equipment experience (a plus)
Work Environment
- Manufacturing shop environment with exposure to machinery, noise, oils, and metal chips
- Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection
Physical Demands
- Standing and walking for long periods
- Frequent bending, reaching, and handling of parts and tools
- Manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination required
Compensation:
Hourly Range: $28.00 - 35.00 per hour. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.
Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.
