Machinist

Company: Harsco Rail
Location: West Columbia
Posted on: February 20, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Company Description Harsco is recognized for technical leadership and worldwide experience in virtually all major aspects of railway track maintenance. We enable railroads to operate at peak efficiency over smooth, precisely aligned track that increases railway safety while reducing fuel consumption and other key operating costs. Our broad array of equipment and services support every type of railway operator, from major national and international railway systems, to short lines and high-speed urban transit networks. Job Description Position Summary & Primary Responsibilities Reporting to the Machining Supervisor, the Machinist A is responsible for performing advanced machining operations with a high degree of precision, efficiency, and safety. This role requires expert knowledge of machining practices, strong technical skills in CNC programming and setup, and the ability to produce quality parts that meet engineering specifications and production requirements. Key Responsibilities Demonstrate expert-level knowledge of machining practices, including part creation, quality assurance, and safe work methods. Independently interpret complex blueprints and technical drawings. Set up, program, and operate CNC lathes, vertical mills, and horizontal mills. Write CNC programs from scratch, select appropriate tooling, and verify part quality to specification. Apply advanced knowledge of machine tools, feeds, speeds, and tooling applications to optimize machining processes. Adjust and edit CNC programs and offsets as required to maintain precision tolerances. Collaborate with process engineering to develop setup sheets, document programs, and support future repeatability. Maintain production goals while upholding strict quality standards. Accurately perform shop math and machining calculations. Follow written and verbal instructions, ensuring proper documentation and workflow continuity. Uphold all safety and 5S standards in the machine shop environment. Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent (required). Minimum of 8 years of machining experience in a job shop or manufacturing environment. Experience with horizontal machining centers (preferred). Over two years experience operating, programming and setting up CNC Horizontals, Vertical mills, and lathes. Associate degree or technical certification in Machine Tool Technology (preferred). Can be relied upon to work regularly and on time, and maintain consistent attendance. Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with team members and other departments. Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency with computers and CNC programming software for communication, documentation, and data entry. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds safely. Ability to stand, bend, stretch, and perform physical tasks for the duration of a shift. Competencies include the attributes to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Problem Solving, Technical Skills, Customer Service, Interpersonal Skills, Oral Communication, Written Communication, Teamwork, Ethics, Motivation, Planning/Organizing, Quality, Quantity, Safety and Security Attendance/Punctuality, Dependability, Initiative, Language Skills, Mathematical Skills, Reasoning Ability, Computer Skills, and Physical Demands Additional Information Disclaimer: This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or genetics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. If you have a difficulty applying for any job posted on Harsco Rail’s website because a disability prevents you from using the online system, Harsco Rail offers the following alternate application procedure: Contact Matt Fink, HR Generalist, at 803-822-7440 and Harsco Rail will arrange for an alternate method of applying and will consider your application together with all other applications received for the job. Please call only for disability application. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Keywords: Harsco Rail, Goose Creek , Machinist, Engineering , West Columbia, South Carolina