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CNC Machining Technician (10pm-6am)

Pace Industries · Grafton, WI · Full time

Posted Jul 2, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you found a fixture alignment problem. How did you spot it?

What they are checking: Whether they can troubleshoot beyond the program to the physical setup holding the part.

Tell me about a change you suggested that cut cycle time or scrap.

What they are checking: Whether they look for improvements on their own rather than just running parts.

What would you do

You are on the 10pm to 6am shift and a machine goes down with no engineer around. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they can troubleshoot independently on third shift and know when to stop and escalate.

About the work

Walk me through setting up a CNC machine for a new aluminum die cast part, from loading the program to the first good piece.

What they are checking: Whether they know a full setup sequence including offsets, tooling, and first-piece verification.

A feature is drifting out of tolerance over the shift. What could be causing it, and how do you fix it?

What they are checking: Whether they can trace dimensional drift to tool wear, heat, or fixturing and adjust with offsets correctly.

How do you decide when to change an insert or drill before it fails?

What they are checking: Whether they manage tool life by data and observation to prevent scrap and broken tools.

Which measuring tools have you used, and how do you read CMM data when it comes back?

What they are checking: Whether they can verify parts with calipers, micrometers, and gauges and act on CMM results.

Die castings can have porosity under the surface. What happens when your tool hits it, and what do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they understand machining issues specific to cast aluminum and when to involve quality.

Read this blueprint callout for me. What does a position tolerance mean for how you check the part?

What they are checking: Whether they can interpret prints and GD&T well enough to make the right measurements.

What routine preventive maintenance do you do on a CNC machine?

What they are checking: Whether they take care of equipment so small issues do not become downtime.

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The full job description

As published by Pace Industries.

Join us in becoming the premier die casting manufacturer and engineering solutions supplier worldwide. $1,700 Sign-On Bonus – $300 at 3 months, $500 at 9 months, and $900 at 12 months Position Summary The Machining Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance support of machining equipment used to process high pressure aluminum die cast components. This position ensures machined parts meet quality specifications while supporting safety, productivity, and continuous improvement objectives. Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Set up and operate CNC and/or manual machining equipment used for aluminum die cast components. • Load programs, change tooling, and make offsets and adjustments as required. • Verify dimensions and quality using precision measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and CMM data when applicable. • Troubleshoot machining and quality issues related to tooling wear, dimensional variation, surface finish, and fixture alignment. • Perform routine preventative maintenance and basic machine troubleshooting. • Monitor machine performance, cycle times, and tool life to maximize efficiency and minimize scrap. • Replace cutting tools, inserts, drills, and fixtures as needed. • Read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and process sheets. • Support production startups, changeovers, and process improvements. • Maintain accurate production and quality documentation. • Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area. • Coordinate with quality, engineering, maintenance, and production teams to resolve issues and improve processes. Qualifications • High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training preferred. • Experience operating CNC machining equipment in a manufacturing environment preferred. • Experience machining aluminum die cast components preferred. • Ability to read blueprints and use precision measuring equipment. • Basic understanding of CNC programming, tooling, and machining processes. • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. • Ability to work independently and within a team environment. • Basic computer and data entry skills. Preferred Skills • Experience with multi-axis CNC machining centers. • Knowledge of GD&T and statistical process control (SPC). • Familiarity with fixture setup and tool management systems. • Understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles. • Experience working in automotive or high-volume manufacturing environments. Physical Requirements • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. • Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching. • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with noise, moving equipment, and metalworking fluids. Key Position Competencies: • Communications – Listening, Reading Comprehension, Speaking and Writing. • Cognition – Analysis/Reasoning, Creative & Innovative Thinking, Decision Making & Judgement, and Problem Solving. • Personal Effectiveness – Accountability & Dependability, Adaptability & Flexibility, Customer Focus, Development & Continual Learning, Ethics & Integrity, Results Focus & Initiative, Safety Focus, Self-Management, Stress Tolerance, and Tact. • Interaction with Others – Influencing Others, Relationship Building, Teamwork and Valuing Diversity • Occupational – Advocating Causes, Enforcing Laws, Rules & Regulations, Facilitating Groups, Interviewing Others, Providing Consultation, and Presenting Information. • Management Qualities – Business Alignment, Coaching and Mentoring, Leadership, Fiscal Accountability, Organizational & Political Savvy, Planning & Organizing, Staff Management and Strategic Vision. For more information about Orion Casting Careers and future job postings, please JOIN our Talent Community at www.orioncastings.com/careers and follow us at: Orion Casting has a strong commitment to the principle of diversity, and in that spirit seeks a broad spectrum of candidates including women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should notify the hiring department by the application deadline.

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