Machinist (Manual & CNC) – The IDEAL Pump
📍 Stuttgart, Arkansas

About Us

The IDEAL Pump is a trusted provider of high-quality pump systems and repair services, serving agricultural, industrial, and commercial clients. We take pride in precision workmanship and dependable service.

Position Summary

The IDEAL Pump is seeking a skilled Machinist with experience in both manual and CNC machining to support the repair, rebuilding, and manufacturing of pump components. This role requires attention to detail, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently in a shop environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual lathes, mills, and drill presses
• Program, set up, and operate CNC machines (lathe and/or mill)
• Machine pump components such as shafts, sleeves, bushings, and housings
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
• Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, and gauges
• Repair and recondition worn or damaged pump parts
• Maintain tight tolerances and ensure quality standards are met
• Assist with disassembly and reassembly of pumps as needed
• Perform routine machine maintenance and keep work area organized
• Follow all safety procedures and shop best practices

Qualifications

• 3+ years of machining experience (manual and/or CNC)
• Strong understanding of machining processes and tooling
• Experience with pump repair or rotating equipment (preferred)
• Ability to read blueprints and work to precise tolerances
• Familiarity with CNC programming (G-code or conversational) is a plus
• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods

Preferred Skills

• Experience machining stainless steel, cast iron, and alloys
• Knowledge of shaft repair, sleeving, and fitting
• Welding or fabrication experience (a plus)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Overtime opportunities
• Stable, full-time position in a growing company

Why Join The IDEAL Pump?

Work with a team that values craftsmanship, precision, and reliability. The IDEAL Pump offers a hands-on environment where your machining skills directly impact quality and performance.
Are you an experienced machinist looking to take your career to the next level? Email your resume to –

– carissa.lock@theidealpump.com.

Job Title: CNC Programmer (Defense / Aerospace)
Reports To: Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

The CNC Programmer supports precision manufacturing of defense and aerospace components by developing, validating, and maintaining CNC programs that comply with customer specifications, contractual requirements, and regulated quality standards. This role ensures repeatable, traceable, and auditable machining processes in accordance with AS9100 and applicable defense contract requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and maintain CNC programs for mills, lathes, and multi-axis machines in compliance with AS9100 quality standards
• Interpret controlled engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, and GD&T requirements
• Ensure CNC programs, setup sheets, and tooling documentation meet configuration control and revision requirements
• Support first article inspections (FAI) per AS9102 and assist with validation of machining processes
• Select approved tooling, fixtures, and machining strategies to meet material, tolerance, and surface finish requirements
• Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Production to resolve nonconformances, corrective actions, and root cause investigations
• Optimize machining processes while maintaining compliance with customer and contractual requirements
• Support internal and external audits, including customer, government, and third-party audits
• Ensure programs follow cybersecurity, data control, and export compliance requirements (ITAR/EAR as applicable)
• Maintain traceability of programs, revisions, and process changes

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical degree or apprenticeship preferred
• 5 to 7+ years of CNC programming experience in a regulated manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of CNC machining, tooling, feeds, speeds, and multi-axis machining
• Proficiency with CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360, GibbsCAM) and G-code
• Ability to read and interpret aerospace/defense drawings and GD&T
• Experience working under AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AS9100, AS9102 (FAI), and customer-specific aerospace requirements
• Familiarity with ITAR/EAR-controlled environments
• Experience machining high-performance materials (Inconel, Titanium, stainless alloys)
• Experience supporting government or prime defense contractors
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and documentation discipline
• Ability to work within controlled processes and change management systems
• Effective cross-functional communication with Quality, Engineering, and Production
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills
• Ability to balance efficiency improvements with compliance requirements

Compliance & Work Authorization

• Must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR (if applicable)
• Must comply with company export control, data security, and confidentiality policies
• Ability to pass background checks as required by defense contracts

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with CNC machinery
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform shop-floor support as needed
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as required

Interested? Please forward resume to – Kmichael@craftmachine.com