Machine Operator

Talascend is currently seeking Machine Operator - Contingent Worker in Allentown, PA

Essential Responsibilities if assigned to EDM/CNC:

• Set-up and operate CNC and/or EDM machines to perform machining operations, fast hole drilling, graphite shaping on metal castings, forgings, and bar stock according to specifications and set-up instructions, applying knowledge of machining methods.
•Study work instructions (mechanical drawings) and set-up instructions to determine machining required, dimensional specifications, work procedures and methods.
•Determine tool lengths, maintain tool change list and program measuring adjustments.
• Install work holding devices such as blocks and tooling on table of machine using hand tools.
Lift work piece on table manually or with other material handling equipment and position and secure work piece on machine table or in holding device.
• Select and install tooling, place electrodes in automatic-tool-changer (if required) in sequence specified on process sheet.
• Observe numerical displays on control panel and compare with data on process sheet to verify dimensional adjustments, feed rates and speed of machining cuts. Check program at start of each shift.
• Inspect first-run piece, maintain measured dimension list. Record and inspect key dimensions for conformance to specifications using micrometer and precision dial gauges.
• Notify supervisor if machined first piece does not conform to specifications or of machine malfunction. Deburr all pieces as per specifications and good machining practice.
Troubleshoot production problems.
• Troubleshoot production, machine, and quality problems.
• Maintain tools and measuring instruments supplied by company.
• Maintain company production and quality standards.
• Report unusual problems or conditions to supervisor.
• Observe company safety rules and regulations.
• Perform, as assigned, other similar and related duties.
Essential Responsibilities if assigned to ECM:
• Observe company safety rules and regulations.
• Set-up and operate electro-chemical machines to cut metal work pieces to specifications
following standard charts and manuals and applying knowledge of electro-chemical machining processes and methods.
• Examine operation sheets of product and plan operation of machine for any ECM operation.
• Dress electrodes according to standard practices and part requirements and identify any conditions that will render an electrode unusable.
• Position and secure work pieces on electro-chemical machine table with clamps, vices or holding fixtures. Perform minor adjustments to set-up of electrodes to ensure concentricity,
alignment and depth of electrode to work piece using measuring instruments such as dial indicators or computer machine controllers.
• Turn controls to adjust machine settings such as voltage, current and electrode feed rate according to information on charts, operation sheets, data cards and/or knowledge of electro-chemical machine procedures. Turn valves to adjust flow of acid through electrodes and on work piece.
• Start machine and observe beginning of operation. 
•Adjust as necessary within specifications to ensure operation runs smoothly. Check on machine and electrodes frequently throughout the operation.
• Inspect work pieces visually and with specified measuring instruments for conformance to specifications and record measured dimensions.
• Use electronic documenting system to update status of parts as they are moved throughout the plant and record all necessary quality information including accept/reject criteria and detailed information regarding any quality defects.
• Move completed work pieces to outgoing area, and from incoming area for next operation.
•Check set-up and electrodes at the start of each shift. 
•Check depth of electrodes to work piece before every operation.
• As required, train and assist other operators with issues or difficulties.
• Maintain tools and measuring instruments supplied by company.
• Maintain company production and quality standards.
• Report unusual problems or conditions to manager.
• Make a strong effort to achieve or exceed expected production output.
• Keep track of how much time is spent on each machine or activity throughout the shift and record daily through electronic system.
• Display an expert level understanding of all types of operations.
• Perform production, quality, and machine troubleshooting on any type of operation or ECM machine.
• Perform, as assigned, other similar or related duties.
Qualifications/Requirements:
• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• A background in machine operation, assembly, or equipment maintenance. Must be comfortable working with tools and following manufacturing work instructions.
Eligibility Requirements:
• This role requires use of technical data subject to U.S. Government export restrictions and this posting is only for U.S. Persons (U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and protected individuals (e.g., certain refugees and asylees)). GE will require proof of status prior to employment
• Ability to lift/push/pull at least 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Willingness to wear personal protective equipment, for example safety glasses, safety shoes gloves and gowns
• Ability to work overtime including occasional weekend shifts
Desired Characteristics:
• Shop math skills
• Previous experience using precision measuring tools
• Able to work with computerized shop floor tools and basic understanding of Microsoft Word and Excel
• Demonstrates positive attitude, strong work ethic, and self-motivation
• Strong communication skills including verbal and written skills