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
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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:
Operators looking to
step into programming
Programmers who want to work on
real, high-spec EDM work
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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
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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
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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.)
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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
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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
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Apply
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