Entry Level CNC

Entry Level CNC Operator (Level
1)

This entry-level CNC role focuses on operating and setting up CNC twelve-axis lathes, machine tools, and vertical machining centers to produce close-tolerance parts from a variety of materials. The position is ideal for individuals with any level of CNC experience or schooling who are genuinely interested in developing their skills and growing a long-term career in machining.

• Operate CNC twelve-axis lathes, machine tools, and vertical machining centers to produce close-tolerance parts from various materials.
• Set up CNC machines, including loading tools, configuring offsets, and preparing work holding as needed for each job.
• Interpret and work from blueprints and technical drawings to ensure parts meet specified dimensions and tolerances.
• Perform tool changes safely and efficiently to maintain production flow and part quality.
• Use micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other measuring devices to inspect parts and verify that they meet quality standards.
• Monitor machine operations, identify issues, and make necessary adjustments to offsets and settings to maintain accuracy.
• Follow established machining procedures and work instructions to ensure consistency and repeatability in production.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and handle equipment and measuring devices with care.
• Collaborate with tooling, quality, and other shop personnel to resolve machining or quality concerns.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines and shop rules while working in the machine shop environment.
• Work a 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. shift and support production needs as required.

• Any prior CNC experience or exposure, such as operating or setting up CNC machines.
• Experience working with CNC lathes, CNC mills, or CNC machining centers.
• Ability to perform CNC machine setup, including tooling and basic offset adjustments.
• Capability to operate CNC equipment safely and consistently.
• Basic blueprint reading skills to understand part requirements and dimensions.
• Proficiency using micrometers, calipers, and gauges to measure and inspect parts.
• Understanding of tool changes and how they affect machining operations.
• Willingness and genuine interest in learning CNC machining and developing technical skills.
• Consideration given to candidates with strong machine setup experience who want to transition into CNC work.

• Completion of any CNC-related schooling, training program, or coursework.
• Experience in general machining or working in a machine shop environment.
• Familiarity with CNC offsets and basic troubleshooting of machining issues.
• Comfort working with a variety of materials and close-tolerance requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and standard operating procedures.

Employees enjoy a stable, long-term environment with a strong focus on taking care of people and fostering a sense of community. The organization offers a 7.5% shift premium, a climate-controlled, clean, and well-organized machine shop, and a $1,000 bonus for skilled positions such as CNC operators, tool room, and quality (paid in two installments after hire and 60 days). Team members benefit from numerous perks, including an onsite gym with access to a personal trainer, a breakroom with games such as ping pong, and participation in company golf and bowling leagues.

The culture emphasizes appreciation, holiday recognition, and regular events that make the workplace feel welcoming and supportive.

The role is based in a temperature-controlled, very clean, and organized machine shop that includes a well-maintained tool room and readily available gauges and measuring devices. The environment features heating and air conditioning to ensure comfort throughout the year. The standard shift runs from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and the facility offers an onsite gym with a personal trainer, a breakroom equipped with a ping pong table and other games, and opportunities to join company recreational leagues such as golf and bowling.

Overall, the workspace is structured, orderly, and designed to support both productivity and employee well-being.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Gurnee, IL.

The pay range for this position is $22.26 - $30.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k)…