Job Title: Gear Grinding Set-up Trainee

Location: Roscoe, IL

Department: Gear Grinding (Finishing)

The Opportunity

Gear grinding is the pinnacle of precision machining. At our client, our grinding department is responsible for the final "mirror finish" and micron-level accuracy of gears used in aerospace, racing, and robotic applications. As a Trainee, you will be paired with master-level grinders to learn the art and science of hard-finishing gears. This is a career-path role designed to turn a mechanically inclined individual into a world-class precision machinist.

What You Will Learn (Key Responsibilities)

• Machine Operation: Learn to set up and operate state-of-the-art CNC Gear Grinders (such as Reishauer, Gleason, or Kapp Niles).
• Precision Alignment: Master the use of indicators to align work-holding and parts within millionths of an inch.
• Wheel Dressing: Learn how to "dress" grinding wheels—shaping the abrasive surface to the exact involute profile required for the gear.
• Metrology: Become proficient in using Gear Inspection Centers (GMMs) to read "lead and profile" charts and make machine adjustments based on the data.
• Blueprint Mastery: Learn to interpret complex engineering drawings and understand how heat-treat distortion affects final grinding dimensions.
• Coolant & Temperature Management: Understand the critical role of oil temperature and flow in preventing "grind burn" and maintaining metallurgical integrity.

Required Qualifications

• Mechanical Aptitude: A strong history of working with your hands (this could be previous machining, automotive repair, or high-level hobbyist assembly).
• Mathematical Foundation: Comfort with decimals and basic geometry. You will eventually be working with tolerances like $0.0001"$ (one ten-thousandth of an inch).
• Patience & Focus: Gear grinding is a slow, methodical process. You must have the ability to stay focused on fine details for extended periods.
• Strong Work Ethic: A commitment to "Excellence Without Exception" and a desire to build a long-term career in a highly specialized trade.
• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent; a certificate in Manufacturing Technology is a plus but not required.