CNC Machine Operator Trainee - Weekend Night Shift

About the role

The CNC Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level position designed to provide hands-on training in operating and maintaining CNC machining centers. The trainee will work closely with experienced operators and supervisors to learn setup, operation, inspection, and basic troubleshooting of CNC machines.

Responsibilities

• Sets up and operates automated CNC Vertical and horizontal machines
• Accurately locates/identifies the X, Y, Z axis on Vertical and Horizontal machines
• Performs daily point checks on assigned machines and reports concerns to supervisor; may initiate maintenance requests if appropriate
• Mets departmental/company goals and objectives promptly (i.e., efficiencies, scrap control, time motion, and setup time reductions)
• Accurately interprets product blueprints, drawings, sketches, setup sheets, and other work instructions
• Uses scales, calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to determine that the part is being machined to the proper specifications
• Removes and replaces dull cutting tools, following designated safety protocol and instructions
• Mounts, installs, aligns, and secures tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments
• Listens to machines during operation to detect irregular sounds (i.e., dull cutting tools or excessive vibration); adjusts machines to compensate for problems and notifies lead or supervisory personnel as appropriate
• Adjusts machine feed and speed, changes cutting tools, or adjusts machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction
• Stops machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement according to required machining sequences
• Lifts workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes
• Enters command instructions into the machine control units to start operation
• Maintains coolant systems as needed
• Transfers commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links
• Sets up future jobs, performs inspections or part checks, cleans the work area, or performs other duties while the machines are operating
• May deburr machined parts as required for work in process
• Communicates verbally (English) and follows verbal and written instructions
• Performs other tasks and/or assignments as required
• Regular attendance on-site at the workplace is required

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED equivalent is required
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
• Demonstrated basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide, fraction conversions)
• A history of consistent employment without unexplained or significant gaps or frequent job changes is expected
• Completion of assigned internal training for Level I, II, or III Operators, and periodic retraining or recertification is required
• Experience using mics, calipers, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment is preferred
• Experience reading & accurately interpreting shop blueprints, sketches, and other technical information/instructions is preferred
• Experience using cranes, forklifts, and similar heavy & oversized material handling equipment is preferred

Qualifications

Training and Advancement: This position is part of a structured training program lasting approximately 90 days, conducted on day shift, Monday through Friday. Upon successful completion, the trainee will be assigned to a CNC Machine Operator Level I, Level II, or Level III based on skills, performance, and company needs. Full-time assignments after training may be scheduled on day, night, or weekend shifts.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regularly stand and walk throughout the facility, stand for long periods to perform job duties
• Regularly lift, carry (short distances), and push/pull up to 100 pounds using peer assistance and/or other lifting & material-handling equipment
• Occasionally reaches overhead and reaches out or down to perform duties
• Frequently climb steps, stairs, or ladders
• Occasionally bend, crawl, stoop, squat, or kneel
• Frequently uses hand or fingers to manually inspect parts, tighten hardware & fixtures, and operate machine and material handling controls
• Accurately distinguish colors to respond to sensors, indicators, and color-variable dashboards
• Visual acuity to interpret readings on gauges and other measuring devices

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a manufacturing shop environment where working conditions may vary significantly; the employee will be exposed to: Excessive noise (hearing protection required) Dust, smoke, mist, fumes/vapors (regularly) Extreme temperatures (occasionally) Hazardous equipment including forklifts, hand tools, cranes or other lifting devices, and other equipment used in a machine shop environment (continually)