Craft components that keep industry moving
Since 1969, Hydro, Inc. has been the independent name in pump rebuilding and a global force in industrial pump engineering. From our Chicago headquarters, our West Loop shop is seeking a Precision Manual Machinist to deliver exacting results on large pump components. An 8,000 USD sign-on bonus is offered for a machinist running a VTL and Horizontal Boring Mill.
The mission
Deliver precision, reliability, and safety. You will machine complex pump parts by hand, holding tight tolerances and ensuring every component meets specification before it reaches critical service.
Your impact
- Own set-ups and manual machining for custom pump work in a job shop setting.
- Produce and finish impellers, wear rings, bearing housings, covers, and seals.
- Turn, bore, and grind on HBM, VBM, VTL, manual lathes, and ID/OD grinders.
- Read and apply drawings, blueprints, and sketches; plan the most effective process.
- Inspect critical features and document results with precision metrology tools.
- Continuously refine feeds, speeds, and methods to elevate quality and throughput.
- Keep equipment in top condition and uphold Hydro’s safety procedures.
- Collaborate with engineers and shop teammates to solve challenges.
What you bring
- Fluent in shop math and geometry for angles, radii, and bolt circles.
- Deep understanding of feed rates and how adjustments influence outcomes.
- Confidence with jigs, fixtures, arbors, mandrels, centers, and clamps.
- Demonstrated ability to machine 3 to 10 ft pump shafts and hold 0.0005 in or less using a steady rest.
- Precise, detail-focused workmanship; strong manual dexterity; high coordination and control precision.
Experience and education
- 5+ years of post-training manual machining on large parts in an industrial facility.
- Completion of a technical or vocational machining program; journeyman status preferred.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Compensation and schedule
- Full-time role; 40 hours per week.
- Hourly pay: 28.00 to 35.00 USD, based on skill and experience.
- Standard 8-hour shifts, Monday through Friday; overtime available.
- Supplemental: Differential pay; night shift availability preferred.
Benefits and workplace
- 401(k) with company match.
- Health, dental, and vision coverage; HSA options.
- Life insurance.
- Paid time off.
- Referral program.
- Free onsite parking and a clean, employee-focused shop environment.
Location and requirements
- Onsite position: Chicago, IL 60607 (West Loop).
- Ability to commute: Required.
- Ability to relocate: Must relocate to Chicago, IL 60607 before start if not local.
Grow with Hydro
Advance your craft among seasoned engineers and machinists at a company trusted by industry worldwide. Build a long-term career where precision work is valued and rewarded.