Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Precision Technician

🎯 Role Definition

A Precision Technician is the hands-on expert at the heart of high-tech manufacturing, responsible for creating, inspecting, and assembling components where accuracy is measured in microns. This role is a blend of a skilled artisan and a technical analyst, using state-of-the-art machinery and metrology equipment to transform complex engineering designs into tangible, flawless products. Success in this position is defined by an unwavering commitment to quality, a meticulous eye for detail, and the ability to solve intricate mechanical challenges. Precision Technicians are the ultimate guardians of product integrity, ensuring that every part meets the most stringent standards required in industries like aerospace, medical devices, and defense.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Machinist Apprentice / Journeyman Machinist
Quality Control Inspector
Mechanical Assembler

Advancement To:

Senior Precision Technician / Lead Technician
Manufacturing Engineer or Process Engineer
Quality Assurance Manager or Metrology Engineer
CNC Programmer

Lateral Moves:

Tool and Die Maker
Calibration Engineer
Field Service Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Operate and perform complex setups on a variety of precision manufacturing equipment, including CNC mills, lathes, EDMs, and surface grinders, to produce components with exceptionally tight tolerances.
Interpret advanced engineering drawings, blueprints, and 3D CAD models, paying close attention to Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) specifications to inform machining and inspection strategies.
Conduct comprehensive First Article Inspections (FAIs), in-process checks, and final inspections on parts using a wide array of high-precision measurement tools.
Program, set up, and operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) using software such as PC-DMIS or Zeiss Calypso to verify part conformity against design specifications.
Utilize advanced metrology instruments including optical comparators, vision systems, profilometers, laser micrometers, and interferometers to measure critical features with sub-micron accuracy.
Perform intricate manual deburring, lapping, and polishing of components under a microscope to achieve specified surface finishes and edge breaks without altering critical dimensions.
Assemble complex, delicate mechanical and electro-mechanical sub-assemblies and final products, requiring exceptional manual dexterity and the use of specialized jigs, fixtures, and tools.
Document all manufacturing and inspection activities with meticulous detail in Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Quality Management Systems (QMS), ensuring full traceability and compliance.
Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with machining processes, tooling, or equipment, making necessary adjustments to offsets, tooling, or programs to maintain quality and efficiency.
Collaborate directly with Manufacturing and Design Engineers to provide feedback on part manufacturability (DFM), suggest process improvements, and assist in root cause analysis for non-conforming parts.
Perform routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, and calibration on precision machinery and measurement instruments to ensure their continued accuracy and reliability.
Manage and maintain tooling, creating custom fixtures and jigs as needed to support unique or challenging manufacturing and inspection requirements.
Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work environment in accordance with 5S principles and company standards.
Select appropriate cutting tools, holders, and work-holding strategies to optimize machining processes for various materials, from standard metals to exotic alloys and plastics.
Monitor machining cycles, listening for signs of tool wear or process instability, and take proactive measures to prevent scrap and equipment damage.
Execute highly detailed finishing processes, such as bead blasting, tumbling, or passivation, according to precise procedural instructions.
Work within a controlled environment, such as a cleanroom, following all gowning and contamination control procedures when required for sensitive assemblies.
Analyze and interpret statistical process control (SPC) data to monitor process capability and identify trends or shifts that could lead to defects.
Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) meetings to help disposition non-conforming material and contribute to corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plans.
Train and mentor junior technicians and apprentices, sharing knowledge of best practices in machining, inspection, and safety.

Secondary Functions

Support engineering teams with the fabrication and inspection of prototype components and test fixtures.
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, such as Kaizen events, to enhance workflow, reduce waste, and improve overall quality.
Assist in maintaining an accurate inventory of specialized tooling, metrology standards, and critical workshop consumables.
Participate in the evaluation and implementation of new manufacturing technologies, software, or inspection equipment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T): Expert-level ability to read, interpret, and apply GD&T from complex blueprints to both manufacturing and inspection.
CMM Operation & Programming: Proficiency in setting up, operating, and ideally programming Coordinate Measuring Machines (e.g., Zeiss, Brown & Sharpe, Mitutoyo) with software like Calypso or PC-DMIS.
Precision Measurement: Mastery of hand-held metrology tools, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, and indicators, with a strong feel for measurement.
CNC Machining & Setup: Hands-on experience setting up and operating multi-axis CNC mills and/or lathes to produce tight-tolerance parts.
Blueprint Reading: Ability to thoroughly understand and navigate complex, multi-page technical drawings, including all notes, tables, and specifications.
Shop Math: Strong applied math skills, including geometry and trigonometry, for calculating offsets, tool paths, and inspection measurements.
CAD/CAM Software: Familiarity with viewing 3D models in software like SolidWorks or Fusion 360, with CAM programming (e.g., Mastercam) being a significant plus.
Surface Finish Metrology: Experience using profilometers or other optical equipment to measure and verify surface roughness (Ra) requirements.
Material Properties: Knowledge of the machinability and characteristics of various materials, including stainless steels, aluminum, titanium, and engineering plastics.
Quality Management Systems (QMS): Understanding of quality system principles and documentation requirements within regulated environments like ISO 9001, AS9100, or ISO 13485.

Soft Skills

Meticulous Attention to Detail: An inherent ability to notice minute details and a refusal to compromise on quality standards.
Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: The capacity to logically diagnose technical problems and develop effective, practical solutions.
Patience & Focus: Ability to perform repetitive and highly detailed tasks for extended periods without losing concentration.
Manual Dexterity: Excellent hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills for handling small parts and performing delicate assembly or finishing work.
Communication Skills: Ability to clearly and concisely communicate technical information to engineers, managers, and other technicians.
Adaptability: A flexible mindset to handle changing priorities, new parts, and evolving processes in a dynamic environment.
Self-Sufficiency: The drive and discipline to work independently, manage one's own workload, and take ownership of results.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, supplemented by a certificate from a technical trade school or a completed formal apprenticeship program in machining or a related field.

Preferred Education:

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in a relevant technical discipline.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Machine Tool Technology
Precision Machining
Metrology
Manufacturing Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-7 years of hands-on experience in a precision manufacturing, machine shop, or quality/metrology lab environment.

Preferred:

Demonstrated experience in a highly regulated industry such as aerospace, medical device, defense, or semiconductor manufacturing is highly desirable. Experience working with exotic materials and parts with tolerances of +/- 0.0002" or tighter.