Machinist – CNC & Manual (Custom Marine Engineering)

Location: Chester, Nova Scotia (South Shore, approx 40 minutes from Halifax)

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Compensation: $28–$40 per hour, based on experience

About the Role

This is a custom machining position and not a production‑line role. Mastercam experience is preferred.

We design, machine, cast, assemble, and test precision marine and mechanical equipment in-house, supporting marine defence, Coast Guard, Canadian Navy, and select private-sector clients worldwide.

Most of our work is custom-engineered, including new builds, repeat work, and complex repair or legacy components.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine custom parts for marine and mechanical systems
• Program CNC machines using Mastercam (mandatory)
• Set up and operate CNC (approx. 70%) and manual (approx. 30%) machining equipment
• Work with stainless steel and aluminum
• Read and interpret engineering drawings
• Collaborate with engineering and inspection teams

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of CNC and/or Mastercam experience (preferred)
• Hands-on Mastercam programming experience
• Experience in custom or small-batch machining
• Ability to work with a variety of machines including manual equipment
• Willingness to work overtime when required

Compensation & Benefits

• $28–$40 per hour, based on experience
• Company group benefits plan, including health and dental coverage
• Group RRSP with employer matching
• Safety boot allowance
• Prescription safety glasses allowance
• Paid training and tuition reimbursement (as applicable)
• Long‑term, stable employment with opportunities for advancement

Why Work With Us

We are a Canadian‑owned company located in Chester, Nova Scotia, where we have designed and built custom marine equipment under one roof since 1906. Our machinists work on interesting, non‑production projects, including lightweight aluminum winches for research vessels, launch and recovery systems (LARS) for oceanographic and polar missions, and custom marine cranes, winches, and deck equipment used on workboats, patrol vessels, and scientific platforms worldwide.

Much of our work is one‑off or small‑batch, engineered to meet demanding weight, space, and performance requirements. Machinists are involved throughout the build and see their work go from raw material through machining, assembly, and in‑house testing, often supporting real-world marine research, defence, and exploration missions.

We offer competitive pay in the South Shore, long‑term stability, and a collaborative shop culture where engineering and manufacturing work closely together. If you value custom machining, technical challenge, and pride in what you build, this is a shop where your skills are fully used.

We are committed to providing an accessible and inclusive hiring process. Accommodations due to accessibility are available on request for candidates taking part in the selection process.

The above summary is to be used as a guideline only and may not incorporate all functions of the job.