Journeyman Manual Machinist

Journeyman Manual Machinist
Location: Richland, WA
Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc.
Employment Type: Full-time, non-exempt
About Columbia Energy
Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business with over 30 years of experience supporting the nuclear, defense, energy, and hazardous waste industries. Originally founded to support nuclear cleanup efforts at Hanford, we have grown into a full-service engineering, design, and fabrication company serving both federal and commercial clients.
Our success is built on technical precision, accountability, and teamwork. We take pride in delivering high-quality work while maintaining a strong safety culture and a collaborative, down-to-earth work environment.
Why Join Columbia Energy?
At Columbia Energy, we value people who take pride in their craft, show up consistently, and contribute to the team. Our machinists play a critical role in producing high-quality components that support complex engineering and fabrication projects.
This is a great opportunity for an experienced machinist who enjoys hands-on work, takes ownership of quality, and wants to be part of a team that values both skill and reliability.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Journeyman Manual Machinist to join our fabrication team. This role is responsible for operating manual machining equipment to produce precision parts, as well as supporting fabrication efforts across various stages of production.
The ideal candidate is experienced, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, procedure-driven environment. This position requires a high level of craftsmanship, the ability to work independently, and a strong focus on accuracy and quality.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
Perform all work in accordance with company safety policies and procedures
Read and interpret engineering drawings, including ASME Y14.5 symbols
Machine parts using manual equipment (lathes, mills, surface grinders) without direct supervision
Select appropriate materials, feeds, and speeds to ensure efficient and accurate machining
Design and fabricate fixtures as needed to support machining projects
Perform self-inspection and dimensional verification prior to QA/QC review
Measure workpieces using precision tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, etc.)
Ensure all required documentation is accurate and kept up to date throughout the job
Interface with QA/QC personnel to support inspection and quality requirements
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
Required Qualifications
Minimum of 5 years of machining experience
Strong working knowledge of manual machining practices across metals and plastics
Proficiency operating manual machines (lathes, mills, surface grinders)
Experience using precision measuring tools and equipment
Ability to read, write, and follow written and verbal instructions
Reliable attendance and ability to work independently
Ability to pass a background check and drug screen (drug- and alcohol-free workplace)
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with R&D or prototype fabrication
Experience working within an NQA-1 program or similar quality standards
Key Success Attributes
Strong attention to detail and pride in workmanship
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
Consistent, reliable, and accountable
Team-oriented with a positive attitude
Able to maintain steady productivity in a fast-paced environment
Physical Requirements
Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs
Use of hands and arms for repetitive tasks, tool operation, and material handling
Sufficient manual dexterity for precision machining work
Ability to see fine details at close range
Required use of PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and work boots
Ability to work in varying shop conditions (heat, cold, noise, etc.)
Working Conditions
Primarily shop-based environment with occasional movement between work areas
Fast-paced, production-driven setting with a strong focus on safety and quality
Regular interaction with fabrication, QA/QC, and supervisory personnel
Equal Opportunity Employer
Columbia Energy is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.

Employment type
Full-Time Non-Exempt - Introductory Period

Work arrangement
No