Lead Manual Lathe Machinist or Machinist Apprentice
Overview
Big West Machine & Welding is seeking a skilled and dependable Lead Manual Lathe Machinist or a motivated Machinist Apprentice to join our team in Drayton Valley, Alberta.
The ideal Lead Machinist will have extensive manual machining experience, be comfortable completing complex work independently, and be capable of providing guidance and mentorship to less-experienced team members.
We are also willing to consider an apprentice who demonstrates strong mechanical aptitude, initiative, attention to detail, and a genuine desire to develop their machining skills under the guidance of experienced tradespeople.
This position involves setting up and operating manual lathes and related conventional machining equipment to manufacture, repair, and modify precision components. Our work is varied and requires sound judgment, strong problem-solving abilities, and the ability to consistently work within specified tolerances.
Responsibilities
- Set up and operate manual lathes to manufacture, repair, and modify precision components
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, sketches, and technical specifications
- Determine appropriate machining processes, tooling, speeds, feeds, and cutting methods
- Perform manual machining operations, including turning, facing, boring, threading, grooving, taper turning, and parting
- Use micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, dial indicators, and other precision measuring instruments to verify dimensions and tolerances
- Inspect completed components to ensure they meet quality standards and customer specifications
- Identify machining issues and make the necessary adjustments to tooling, equipment, or processes
- Operate other conventional shop equipment, including manual milling machines, drill presses, band saws, and grinders, as required
- Assist with fitting, assembly, repair, and troubleshooting work when necessary
- Perform routine machine maintenance and basic equipment troubleshooting
- Maintain accurate, high-quality workmanship while meeting production requirements
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
- Follow all company safety procedures, PPE requirements, and workplace policies
- Occasionally perform work at customer sites
Additional Lead Machinist Responsibilities
- Take ownership of complex and high-precision manual machining work
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to apprentices and less-experienced employees
- Assist with planning machining processes and coordinating workflow
- Help identify efficient machining methods while maintaining quality standards
- Support troubleshooting and problem-solving on challenging repair and manufacturing work
- Promote safe work practices, accountability, quality, and teamwork within the shop
Qualifications
Lead Manual Lathe Machinist
- Journeyperson Machinist certification is preferred; substantial directly related experience may also be considered
- Extensive experience setting up and operating manual lathes independently
- Strong knowledge of conventional machining practices, tooling, materials, speeds, feeds, and precision measurement
- Ability to plan and complete complex machining work from drawings, specifications, samples, or existing components
- Proven ability to work to close tolerances and consistently produce high-quality work
- Strong troubleshooting, leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Experience mentoring apprentices or providing technical direction is an asset
Machinist Apprentice
- Registered Machinist Apprentice or eligible and willing to enter the apprenticeship program
- Previous manual machining, mechanical, manufacturing, or industrial experience is preferred
- Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
- Ability to follow instructions, ask questions, and work safely under the direction of experienced tradespeople
- Demonstrated reliability, initiative, and attention to detail
All Applicants
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work instructions
- Working knowledge of precision measuring equipment
- Practical math skills, including fractions, decimals, geometry, and machining-related trigonometry
- Experience with manual milling machines and other conventional machine-shop equipment is an asset
- Preventive maintenance and equipment repair experience is an asset
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
- Strong commitment to workplace safety, quality, and accuracy
- Must hold a valid Class 5 driver’s licence
- Must be able to reliably commute to Drayton Valley, Alberta
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications
- Guaranteed 40 hours per week
- Overtime paid after eight hours per day
- Comprehensive benefits package after three months
- Apprenticeship support and opportunities for career advancement
- Stable, full-time employment in a growing industrial environment
- Ongoing training and skills development
- A supportive team culture focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement
- Occasional site work, with employees home every night
- A company that recognizes the importance of work-life balance and works with employees when scheduling holidays
Benefits
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- Vision care
Location
Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1C4
Work location: In person
Only applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted.
Please drop off your résumé in person to Dan at:
Big West Machine & Welding
5524 53 Avenue
Drayton Valley, Alberta
Résumés may also be emailed to [email protected].
Pay: $30.00-$48.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1R5: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Location:
- Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1R5 (preferred)
Work Location: In person
