Find & Apply For Grinder / Sharpener Jobs in Rockford, Illinois

Position:

Conventional /

Sinker EDM OperatorLocation:

Rockford, ILFull-time Benefits:

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTORole Overview:

An experienced Conventional (Sinker) EDM Operator with a minimum of 5 years of hands-on expertise is sought to join a precision-focused team. The role involves setting up, programming, operating, and maintaining RAM/Sinker EDM machinery to produce complex, high-accuracy components and tooling for demanding applications.

Key Responsibilities:

Machine operation & setup: Perform advanced setups, select tooling, align workpieces, and configure electrode systems.

Blueprints & specifications: Interpret complex engineering drawings, 3D models, and GD&T specifications to maintain tolerances down to .0002".

Electrode preparation:

Fabricate, dress, inspect, and qualify graphite and copper tungsten electrodes.

Process optimization: Define burn parameters, spark gaps, machine speeds, dielectric flushing, and duty cycles for alloys and tool steels.

Quality control: Conduct in-process inspections using comparators, micrometers, height gauges, and CMM equipment to ensure zero-defect output.

Maintenance & safety: Perform routine maintenance on EDM machines and filtration systems while maintaining a clean, safe work environment.

Required Qualifications:

Experience:

Minimum 5 years operating Conventional/Sinker EDM machines in precision job shop, aerospace, or mold/die environments.

Technical skills: Strong background in blueprint reading, GD&T, bench inspection, and electrode preparation.

Machining math: Solid understanding of shop math, geometry, and trigonometry.

Precision focus: Ability to work with tight-tolerance prototype and production components.

Troubleshooting:

Skilled in diagnosing cut issues, flushing problems, or surface finish defects and adjusting parameters independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with Mitsubishi & Sodick EDM controls or similar.

Dual experience with Wire EDM or CNC Milling/Jig Grinding.

Background in ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality environments.

What's Offered:

Competitive hourly wages (commensurate with experience)Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement plan with company matchPaid time off (PTO) and holidaysClean, climate-controlled work environmentOpportunities for growth and training on advanced machinery