CNC Apprentice

Fort Walton Machining, Inc. was formed in 1987 as a specialized custom manufacturing operation, specifically to service Eglin Air Force Base and its prime contractors. It began as a small company with only two employees, but its mission—even then, as it remains today—was to provide highly technical, precision machining with zero defects, delivered on time, and to the complete satisfaction of its customers. Commitment to that mission quickly earned the company a reputation for “walking the walk,” not just “talking the talk.” As evidence of this, Fort Walton Machining became a certified “Dock to Stock” supplier for one of its major customers as early as 1991. Certified to AS9100 Quality Standards, as well as government and military standards such as MIL-I-45208A, the company played a significant role in the Air Force AMRAAM project from 1991 to 1993. The long-term vision was always to expand into commercial markets while continuing to serve the military and its prime contractors. In early 1995, the company formed a business alliance with a major corporation in the medical industry, which led to additional business opportunities with partners in the British Isles and Japan. As a result of these diverse experiences, Fort Walton Machining has grown into an international service company, capable of supporting customers around the world. CNC Apprentice – Position Summary We are seeking a dependable, hardworking, and highly motivated individual to join our team as a CNC Apprentice. This is an entry-level opportunity for someone who is eager to learn, take direction, develop technical skills, and build a long-term career in CNC machining. No prior CNC experience is required; we are willing to train the right candidate. A strong work ethic, positive attitude, attention to detail, and willingness to learn are essential for success in this role. The CNC Apprentice will receive hands-on training in setting up and operating CNC machines and machining centers to manufacture precision metal and nonmetal components. As skills and experience develop, the apprentice will learn to read blueprints, interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), perform precision measurements, set up tooling, and make basic machine and tool adjustments to ensure parts meet quality requirements. The ideal candidate takes pride in their work, demonstrates initiative, follows instructions, works safely, and consistently strives to improve their skills and performance. Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities - Strong work ethic, reliability, and a demonstrated willingness to learn. - Self-motivated, dependable, and committed to developing new technical skills. - Basic blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge preferred, but not required. - Basic mathematical skills, including measurements and fractions. - Ability to learn how to operate CNC machines and load and unload parts. - Ability to learn precision measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gauges, thread gauges, and optical comparators. - Willingness to learn tool setting, tool offsets, and minor tool adjustments. - Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality parts. - Ability to follow work instructions, safety procedures, and established manufacturing processes. Physical Demands The physical demands described below are representative of those an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to handle or manipulate materials and tools; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and communicate verbally and audibly. The employee is frequently required to walk and occasionally required to climb or maintain balance. The employee must regularly lift and/or move items weighing up to 10 pounds and frequently lift and/or move items weighing up to 50 pounds, as required by the job duties. Specific visual abilities required may include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. Fort Walton Machining, Inc. is a drug-free workplace. Testing for illegal drugs is required prior to hire and may be conducted periodically during employment. Reasonable Accommodation: Fort Walton Machining, Inc. will provide reasonable accommodation to all applicants and employees. If you need an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact Dan Bowman at 850 244-9095. Equal Employment Opportunity: Fort Walton Machining, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, promotions, and termination. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited to Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA), Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).