Wire EDM Programmer / Operator - Houston, TX

At a Glance Company: Gretna Machine Shop Location: Houston, TX (Northwest) Job Type: Full-Time Pay Range: EDM Operator: $20 – $25/hr EDM Programmer: $25 – $30/hr Shift: Day Shift (with potential future flexibility) Overtime: Available Experience Level: Entry to Mid (Operator) | Mid-Level (Programmer) Work Authorization: U.S. work authorization required Why This Role Exists This role exists to support growing demand for high-precision components at Gretna Machine Shop, particularly in aerospace and energy applications where EDM is critical. As the shop continues to expand capabilities, this position plays a key role in producing complex parts that require tight tolerances, intricate geometries, and high surface finish standards. This is a strong opportunity for: Operators looking to step into programming Programmers who want to work on real, high-spec EDM work The Work You’ll Be Doing Program, set up, and operate ONA Wire EDM machines Develop and edit EDM programs (machine control and/or offline CAM) Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T Select proper wire, flushing strategy, and cutting parameters Perform setups, offsets, alignments, and first article inspections Monitor machining for accuracy, surface finish, and tolerance Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and comparators Troubleshoot issues (wire breaks, accuracy, process deviations) Perform routine maintenance and keep machines running efficiently Support production while machines are running (deburring, marking, etc.) Collaborate with engineering, quality, and machining teams Machines, Equipment & Environment ONA Wire EDM machines Precision inspection tools: Micrometers, calipers, height gauges Optical comparators Clean, organized production floor inside a 50,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned facility What You’ll Be Working On Parts: Precision aerospace and energy components Work Type: High-mix, low-volume complex geometries Tolerances: Tight-tolerance, high-spec work Materials: Aluminum Stainless steel Tool steels Nickel alloys (Inconel, etc.) What We’re Looking For For Operators ($20–$25/hr) Experience operating EDM or CNC machines Ability to read blueprints and basic GD&T Familiarity with inspection tools Strong attention to detail and reliability For Programmers ($25–$30/hr) Experience programming Wire EDM (ONA preferred) Strong understanding of EDM cutting strategies and parameters Ability to interpret complex drawings and GD&T Experience with CAD/CAM or offline programming software Nice to Have Aerospace or high-precision manufacturing experience Tool & die or mold making background Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement exposure Why Machinists Like Working at Gretna Machine Shop Work on complex, non-repetitive parts Exposure to aerospace and energy components Opportunity to grow from operator → programmer → advanced roles Clean, air-conditioned shop Long-tenured team and strong internal knowledge base Investment in equipment and expanding capabilities Apply Apply directly through hireCNCaa415a4b-8b21-40fc-a65c-70d2b25ca29a