Machinist

Role Overview

Machinist at Flowserve. The role is based in KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) and involves setting up, operating, and optimizing precision grinding processes for high-precision components used in high-efficiency energy recovery devices.

Company Overview

Flowserve is building a new manufacturing capability in KSA to produce high-precision components used in high-efficiency energy recovery devices (ERDs).

Role Purpose

As a High-Precision Grinder, you will set up, operate, and optimize precision grinding processes (ID/OD, surface, and form grinding) for advanced ceramics to meet demanding dimensional accuracy and surface integrity requirements. You will collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, HSE, and Operations to achieve first-pass yield, on-time delivery, and zero defects in a start-up environment. The role expects strict adherence to local regulatory requirements and company HSE policies.

Key Responsibilities

Set-up & Operation

• Demonstrate CNC machine programming proficiency with grinding machines (5 axis mill or HBM experience also appropriate), with ability to adapt programs on the spot.
• Prepare NC Multi Axis Grinding machines, fixtures, and tooling for precision grinding of ceramics (alumina, zirconia) using diamond or CBN wheels.
• Execute dry and wet grinding strategies to control thermal damage and micro-chipping.
• Load and unload parts and perform in-process checks.
• Adjust feeds, speeds, wheel dressing parameters, and coolant delivery to sustain capability.

Precision & Metrology

• Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing).
• Use micrometers, indicators, bore gauges, optical comparators, and profilometers.
• Verify critical dimensions, roundness, flatness, and surface finish using CMMs (coordinate measuring machines) where applicable.
• Record inspection data and support SPC (statistical process control) and capability studies (Cp/Cpk) to maintain stable processes.

Quality & Documentation

• Follow standardized work, control plans, and inspection test plans.
• Complete lot travelers, route cards, and non-conformance reports.
• Support root-cause analysis, corrective actions, and continuous improvement events (5S/Kaizen).
• Operate in alignment with ISO 9001 quality expectations and contribute to audit readiness.

HSE & Compliance

• Apply grinder safety standards and PPE requirements (eye and face protection, hearing protection, respirators and dust control as applicable).
• Ensure guards, emergency stops, and wheel change procedures comply with company work instructions.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace.
• Participate in safety audits and emergency drills per site procedures.

Maintenance & Care

• Perform routine maintenance, wheel dressing and balancing, and coolant and filtration checks.
• Escalate equipment issues and support planned preventive maintenance.

Collaboration & Start-up Readiness

• Work cross-functionally with Planning, Engineering, and Quality to meet build schedules.
• Support NPI (new product introduction) and prototype runs and rapid process stabilization typical of a start-up.
• Communicate factual data clearly across teams.

Qualifications & Experience

• Demonstrable hands-on experience in precision machining or grinding of ceramics or other super-hard, brittle materials.
• Technical diploma or apprenticeship in machining and manufacturing; secondary education acceptable with strong hands-on experience.
• Experience with ceramics commonly used in fluid-handling and sealing applications (e.g., Al₂O₃).
• Exposure to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 systems and audit participation.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Proficiency in using precision metrology.
• Experienced with diamond and CBN wheel selection, dressing, and process optimization to meet tight tolerances and surface finish requirements.
• Familiarity with SPC tools, capability analysis, and problem-solving methods (RCA/8D).
• CNC surface, OD, and ID grinding programming experience.
• Experience with Mahr Cockpit Software.
• English language proficiency (spoken and written) for technical communication, training, and documentation.
• Arabic language skills are a plus.
• Strong commitment to HSE practices and use of required PPE for grinding operations.
• Ability to work comfortably in a start-up environment with evolving processes and documentation.

Additional Information

• Shop-floor role requiring standing, fine motor work, and safe lifting per site guidelines.
• Shift work may be required to meet customer schedule (details to be confirmed).
• Compliance with KSA labor and site access requirements; company will support visa and work authorization processes according to policy.
• Opportunity to shape a new KSA manufacturing start-up in a high-impact energy-efficiency domain.
• Modern equipment, training, and the chance to establish best-in-class ceramic-grinding capabilities.
• Competitive compensation with benefits aligned to KSA practice; details per company policy.