Cnc Operator

CNC Operator

This role focuses on setting up and operating 5-axis CNC machines to efficiently and safely produce high-quality parts and materials. You will interpret technical drawings, translate instructions into machine commands, and ensure that each part meets precise specifications. Success in this position requires strong mechanical aptitude, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work with advanced CNC equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up, maintain, and operate CNC machines, including 5-axis CNC machines, to produce parts according to specifications.
• Review blueprints, mechanical drawings, and job specifications to understand the requirements and desired outcomes for each task.
• Translate written and verbal instructions into computer commands so CNC machines perform the correct functions.
• Read and interpret G-codes and M-codes to operate CNC programs and machines effectively.
• Verify tool lists in programs and ensure the correct tools and tool numbers are used for each job.
• Manually install and change tools in CNC machines as required by the program and job setup.
• Load the correct CNC program for each part and verify it aligns with job specifications.
• Set up appropriate fixtures and work holding devices for parts being machined.
• Identify, pull, and verify the correct material required to fulfill each order.
• Multitask by operating two CNC machines simultaneously to produce parts for different orders when required.
• Load raw material into CNC machines and unload finished or in-process parts safely and efficiently.
• Deburr and inspect parts produced to ensure they meet customer drawings and requirements.
• Perform secondary operations such as sanding, deburring, labeling, packaging, cutting material, and completing required forms.
• Cut material using table saws and band saws as needed to prepare stock for machining.
• Prepare and run test programs to confirm that machines produce outputs according to specifications before full production.
• Set machines to run full cycles for high-volume production of parts while monitoring output quality.
• Supervise machines during operation and make necessary adjustments to improve part quality or resolve issues.
• Inspect and measure finished products using precision instruments and compare results to engineering requirements and tolerances.
• Check and maintain CNC machinery daily to ensure proper functionality and reduce downtime.
• Maintain a lean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with workplace standards.
• Complete assigned tasks within the established production schedule and timelines.
• Maintain housekeeping standards within assigned areas to support a safe and efficient work environment.
• Use tools and equipment such as tape measures, calipers, micrometers, sandpaper, orbital sanders, power tools, manual hand tools, table saws, band saws, compressed air, label machines, personal computers or laptops, and Excel spreadsheet software.
• Follow company policies, quality system documentation, and health and safety requirements at all times.
• Work overtime as needed to support production demands.
• Stand for the duration of the shift and safely lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly throughout the shift.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 2+ years of experience operating 5-axis CNC machines.
• Proficiency in CNC operation and CNC machining, including the use of CNC controls such as Fanuc.
• Experience operating CNC lathes and CNC mills.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and engineering documents.
• Strong skills using precision measuring instruments, including dial, vernier, and digital calipers; outside and inside micrometers; dial indicators and test indicators; height gauges; surface plates; and gauge blocks.
• Ability to understand and inspect Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), including true position, flatness, perpendicularity, parallelism, concentricity, profile of a surface, and datum structures and datum reference frames.
• Ability to verify part conformance to engineering specifications and tolerance requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude and solid general math skills…