Mechanical Technician - Machinery Maintenance Mechanic

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: No

Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Defense Systems Sector is searching for an experienced, detail-oriented light mechanic and painter to join our organization in Rolling Meadows IL that is ready to use their knowledge and experience to help us sustain customer requirements.

Job Description:

The successful candidate will play a critical role in the production of high‑precision components for defense and aerospace programs. You will be responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining CNC equipment, ensuring product quality, and supporting continuous‑improvement initiatives. This position blends technical expertise with strong communication skills, allowing you to train teammates and contribute to a safe, efficient work environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• CNC Setup & Operation – Set up and run 3‑Axis CNC Machine, work with Siemens and HAAS controllers. Maintain an accurate inventory of tools, cutters, and consumables; conduct regular audits and track usage. Select, install, and verify tooling, cutting inserts, and holders; perform tool‑offset calculations and load data into the control.
• CAM Software - Create and edit CNC programs using CAD/CAM software, select appropriate tooling, and generate accurate job estimates—including cycle time, material consumption, and overall completion timelines.
• Work Holding & Fixturing – Design, fabricate, and implement custom work‑holding and mechanical fixtures to support machining, assembly, and repair operations; provide fixture solutions to other departments and assist with mechanical repairs.
• Machine‑Tool Proficiency – Operate auxiliary equipment such as drill presses, band saws, metal‑bending presses, and sheet‑metal shears, applying appropriate techniques and safety practices.
• Safety & Housekeeping – Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area; follow PPE and safety guidelines. Perform preventive maintenance on CNC machines. Conduct scheduled inspections, checks, and replace wear items to ensure equipment reliability, minimize downtime, and uphold a safe operating environment.
• Quality Assurance – Perform in‑process and final part inspections; verify conformance to GD&T, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Process Documentation – Record setup parameters, machining data, and inspection results; maintain accurate work orders and reports.
• Continuous Improvement – Identify opportunities to optimize feeds, speeds, tooling, workflow, and fixture designs; assist with special projects as directed by Management.

Basic Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to operate, set up, and maintain 3-Axis CNC machines.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, blueprints, production documentation, and GD&T with strong attention to detail to ensure quality and compliance with technical specifications.
• Minimum 2 years of mechanical and hands-on experience, preferably in machining or repair environments.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team environment.
• Strong communication skills; must be able to communicate technical terms and articulate issues.
• Able to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to sit and stand while working.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven experience in machining roles within aerospace or defense industries.
• Familiarity with military standards and aerospace standards (NASM) related to repair and manufacturing processes.
• Experience designing, fabricating, and implementing custom work-holding fixtures and mechanical repairs.
• Proficient in CAM programming software and CAD software, preferably SolidWorks.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, production, and quality teams.
• Excellent analytical skills and a detail-oriented mindset

NGSkills

Primary Level Salary Range: $27.63 - $27.63

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.