Summary

The Surface Grinder Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating Okamoto surface grinders to manufacture precision components that meet exact customer specifications. This role performs precision surface grinding and, when qualified, OD/ID grinding on Studer grinders while consistently maintaining extremely tight tolerances. The Surface Grinder Machinist interprets engineering drawings and GD&T requirements, performs machine setups, conducts quality inspections, and ensures all work meets company and customer quality standards. This position requires a strong commitment to precision, safety, continuous improvement, and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.

Job description

Basic Purpose and Objective of the Position

The Surface Grinder Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating Okamoto surface grinders to manufacture precision components that meet exact customer specifications. This role performs precision surface grinding and, when qualified, OD/ID grinding on Studer grinders while consistently maintaining extremely tight tolerances. The Surface Grinder Machinist interprets engineering drawings and GD&T requirements, performs machine setups, conducts quality inspections, and ensures all work meets company and customer quality standards. This position requires a strong commitment to precision, safety, continuous improvement, and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.

Major Responsibilities

Perform complete machine setups and operate Okamoto surface grinders to produce precision components.
Set up and operate Studer OD/ID grinders (preferred) to perform external and internal grinding operations.
Perform precision surface, OD, and ID grinding operations while consistently maintaining tolerances as tight as ±0.0001".
Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, work instructions, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) requirements.
Select, install, dress, and maintain grinding wheels, fixtures, tooling, and workholding as required for each setup.
Verify machine setup and make necessary adjustments to ensure dimensional accuracy and surface finish requirements are achieved.
Perform first-piece inspections and in-process quality checks using precision measuring equipment.
Complete required inspection records and quality documentation.
Utilize precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, indicators, bore gauges, optical comparators, and other inspection equipment.
Identify and troubleshoot machining or quality issues and make process adjustments as needed.
Perform routine preventive maintenance and basic machine care to ensure equipment reliability.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by following 5S and company safety standards.
Support continuous improvement initiatives and assist with special projects or other duties as assigned.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
Minimum 2 years of experience in machining operations, with proficiency in multi-axis mills and lathes, Slice/Grinding, wire EDM, and/or similar operations.
Ability to hold tight tolerances of ±0.0001 and interpret customer drawings and specifications.
Experience with inspection equipment and digital optical measuring tools preferred.
Strong mechanical aptitude and proficiency in using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
Familiarity with preventive maintenance practices and commitment to 5S principles.
Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple tasks.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Prescription drug coverage
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Flexible spending accounts
Basic life insurance
AD&D insurance
Short-term disability
Long-term disability
Supplemental life insurance
401(k) with company match
Tuition assistance
Paid time off
Paid holidays

Company overview

Dexter Magnetic Technologies, founded in 1951, is a leading manufacturer of magnetic products and solutions serving diverse industries including medical equipment, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor manufacturing. The company specializes in designing, engineering, and manufacturing complex magnetic circuits, permanent magnets, magnetic assemblies, and electromagnetic systems. With headquarters in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Dexter operates as a comprehensive magnetic solutions provider offering customized soft magnetic components and accessories such as ferrite cores, powder cores, amorphous cores, bobbins, and thermistors. The company's medical division is particularly notable for its LifeSep® biomagnetic separation technology, which provides rapid and reliable magnetic bead separation solutions for biotech, life science, and pharmaceutical applications. Dexter's expertise extends to rare earth magnets including NdFeB and Samarium Cobalt, with a focus on DFARS-compliant supply chains for critical defense and medical applications. As part of the Permag family of brands and owned by TSL Engineered Products, the company maintains a strong engineering focus with extensive capabilities in magnetic material selection, assembly design, and program management for high-reliability applications.