Wire EDM Programmer / Operator - Houston, TX

At a Glance

Company: Gretna Machine Shop
Location: Houston, TX (Northwest)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range:

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• EDM Operator: $20 – $25/hr
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• 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
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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:

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• Operators looking to step into programming
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• Programmers who want to work on real, high-spec EDM work
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The Work You’ll Be Doing

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• Program, set up, and operate ONA Wire EDM machines
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• Develop and edit EDM programs (machine control and/or offline CAM)
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• Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T
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• Select proper wire, flushing strategy, and cutting parameters
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• Perform setups, offsets, alignments, and first article inspections
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• Monitor machining for accuracy, surface finish, and tolerance
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• Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and comparators
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• Troubleshoot issues (wire breaks, accuracy, process deviations)
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• Perform routine maintenance and keep machines running efficiently
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• Support production while machines are running (deburring, marking, etc.)
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• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and machining teams
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Machines, Equipment & Environment

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• ONA Wire EDM machines
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• Precision inspection tools: \n
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  • Micrometers, calipers, height gauges
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  • Optical comparators
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• Clean, organized production floor inside a
  50,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned facility
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What You’ll Be Working On

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• Parts: Precision aerospace and energy components
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• Work Type: High-mix, low-volume + complex geometries
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• Tolerances: Tight-tolerance, high-spec work
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• Materials:\n
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  • Aluminum
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  • Stainless steel
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  • Tool steels
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  • Nickel alloys (Inconel, etc.)
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What We’re Looking ForFor Operators ($20–$25/hr)

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• Experience operating EDM or CNC machines
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• Ability to read blueprints and basic GD&T
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• Familiarity with inspection tools
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• Strong attention to detail and reliability
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For Programmers ($25–$30/hr)

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• Experience programming Wire EDM (ONA preferred)
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• Strong understanding of EDM cutting strategies and parameters
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• Ability to interpret complex drawings and GD&T
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• Experience with CAD/CAM or offline programming software
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Nice to Have

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• Aerospace or high-precision manufacturing experience
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• Tool & die or mold making background
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• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement exposure
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Why Machinists Like Working at Gretna Machine Shop

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• Work on complex, non-repetitive parts
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• Exposure to aerospace and energy components
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• Opportunity to grow from operator → programmer → advanced roles
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• Clean, air-conditioned shop
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• Long-tenured team and strong internal knowledge base
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• Investment in equipment and expanding capabilities
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Apply

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