Machine Operator - 1st Shift

About the role

Are you looking to make a career shift? Looking for a reliable, stable job where you can contribute to a team, learn, and grow? Hypertherm is seeking Machine Operators to join our Kent, Washington manufacturing team supporting our Waterjet product line. This role is ideal for someone with some experience with Machine Operating who enjoys hands‑on production work, consistent schedules, and contributing to a collaborative, lean manufacturing environment. As a 100% associate‑owned global leader in industrial cutting solutions, Hypertherm offers a stable, people‑centered workplace where quality, safety, and continuous improvement matter.

Responsibilities

• Produce high‑quality components that meet exacting standards while supporting reliable production flow on 2nd shift.
• Set up and operate manual and CNC machining equipment to produce parts that meet quality, performance, and safety standards.
• Perform machining, assembly, and basic packaging operations as required.
• Use precision measurement tools to verify part conformance and dimensional accuracy.
• Make routine machine adjustments and support basic troubleshooting to reduce downtime.
• Follow work instructions, setup sheets, engineering drawings, and safety requirements.
• Participate in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with teammates and shift leadership to meet daily production priorities.

Qualifications

Required:

• 2+ years of hands‑on experience setting up and operating manual and CNC machines in a manufacturing environment.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Strong working knowledge of shop math, including basic arithmetic, geometry, and Cartesian coordinate systems.
• Proven ability to use precision measuring equipment such as calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, comparators, and dial indicators.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work orders, and written instructions.
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with MS Office.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work reliably on a fixed 2nd‑shift schedule.

Preferred:

• 5+ years of hands-on experience with CNC machines.
• Experience working in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement environments.
• Intermediate machine and process troubleshooting experience.
• Comfort using process documentation and setup instructions.

Benefits

• Collaborative, 100% employee-owned culture
• Profit-Sharing and Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP)
• Five days/year paid Community Service Time
• Strong commitment to Environmental Stewardship

Pay

Base pay: $25-$30/hour based on experience.

Schedule

Fixed 2nd‑shift schedule.