CNC Operator II - Entry

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear‑resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at  Follow @Kennametal:
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CNC Operator II

LaVergne, TN

2nd - Mon-Fri; 3pm-11pm

Operate and maintain multiple CNC 3- and 4‑axis periphery grinding machines to produce high‑quality inserts that meet blueprint specifications and quality standards.

• Operate and maintain multiple CNC 3- and 4‑axis periphery grinding machines to produce high‑quality inserts that meet blueprint specifications and quality standards, including Dom, Wendt, Combi, Leo, and Penta models.
• Load and off‑load inserts from multiple grinding machines.
• Gage inserts to ensure proper dimensions.
• Scope inserts to verify visual characteristics.
• Pull samples and record inspection results on route cart.
• Place inserts into appropriate racks before and after grinding.
• Separate scrap from good inserts and document accurately.
• Scan correct production information.
• Maintain tooling used in machines, resurfacing as needed.
• Operate other equipment as needed.
• Train new operators when required.
• Troubleshoot moderate to complex problems.
• Adjust unique grinding programs to dial in cycles.

• Demonstrate commitment to working safely and understanding all safety procedures.
• Handle deviations in routine according to operating procedures and/or work instructions.
• Follow inspection control plan, ensuring product is processed according to proper routings, specifications, and that the quantity and style are correct.
• Work to meet daily departmental production goals.
• Be reliable and dependable.
• Communicate safety, quality, product issues with supervisor, team members and across shifts.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience with CNC Operation experience is required.

• Temperature‑controlled manufacturing environment equipped with dust collection systems.
• Required PPE includes safety glasses with side shields, safety shoes, and gloves (cut‑resistant gloves when applicable).

• Ability to stand for approximately eight hours per shift, with two scheduled breaks.
• Intermittent walking, reaching, bending, and sitting throughout the shift.
• Must be able to lift and move trays weighing up to 33 pounds.

• Execute production orders by due date in accordance with the production sequencing plan and escalates if unable to follow the schedule.
• Follow verbal and written instructions and adhere to established guidelines.
• Inspect and adjust tooling as required to maintain process integrity.
• Resolve moderate to complex issues using knowledge of insert styles and production processes, occasionally in collaboration with technical experts.
• Escalate recurring issues or major decisions to supervisors as appropriate.