CNC Trainee - Springfield, MA

CNC Trainee

Job Purpose: Participate in the CNC Training Program to learn machinist duties associated with the production of components for pistols, revolvers, and rifles. Operate computer numerical controlled machines to fabricate parts, load and cycle machines, detect malfunctions such as worn or damaged cutting tools, run production lots, and maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment.

After completing the training program, trainees are expected to achieve intermediate skills and perform complex production work including set‑up, technical support, and CNC machining, following all prescribed methods and procedures. These responsibilities require teamwork and effective communication, regardless of assigned shift.

Pay Range: $19.74 - $24.68

• Perform general and intermediate machinist duties and responsibilities.
• Set up CNC equipment by installing and adjusting chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers; indicate vices and tramming fixtures.
• Load feed mechanisms by lifting stock into position.
• Verify settings by measuring positions, first-run parts, and sample work pieces; set tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches; adhere to international standards and use bench gauges to adjust CNC.
• Maintain specifications by observing drilling, grooving, cutting, turning, facing, knurling, and thread chasing operations; take measurements, detect malfunctions, troubleshoot processes, adjust and reprogram controls, sharpen and replace worn tools; adhere to quality assurance procedures and use a variety of CNC tool holders and cutting tools.
• Maintain safe operations by following safety procedures and regulations.
• Maintain equipment by completing preventive maintenance, following manufacturer instructions, troubleshooting malfunctions, and calling for repairs.
• Ensure continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and needs; manage a co‑worker and multitask across 6‑10 CNC machines.
• Document actions by completing production and quality logs.
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities and reading technical publications.
• Accomplish organizational goals by taking ownership, accepting new requests, and exploring opportunities to add value.
• Perform other miscellaneous duties as directed by the supervisor or designated individual; problem‑solve to keep machines operating.
• Participate actively and complete all training requirements to advance skills and proficiencies.
• Monitor and verify quality in accordance with work instructions, statistical process control, and any other variance control procedures for certifying or testing equipment.
• Work with floor supervisors and lead people to maintain production schedules and limit waste, scrap, re‑works, or re‑turnbacks.
• Collaborate with Quality Control personnel to ensure the highest quality product.
• Maintain regular attendance as defined by policy.

• Completion of a vocational academic program or machining skills certification program is preferred.
• Previous experience in a machine shop or CNC environment is preferred.
• Math skills equal to those used in a machining environment are preferred.
• Must take and pass a math and mechanical aptitude test.
• Excellent conceptual, process improvement, verbal communication, functional, technical, controls, and instrumentation skills; supply management, tooling, coordination, inventory control, attention to detail, and judgment are preferred.
• Must have a working command of the English language, read, write, and interpret English, and communicate verbally and in writing (basic instruction level).
• Basic computer skills are preferred.

• All trainees must complete assigned technical, administrative, EH&S, compliance/regulatory, and interpersonal training programs to become working team members.
• Trainees must complete technical and core training requirements through traditional methods, online training, and hands‑on training as prescribed by each supervisor.

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, climb, bend, stoop, push, pull, carry, reach, and twist.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Mandatory wearing of certified safety glasses and hearing protection.
• Additional PPE may be required for certain tasks (safety eyewear, hearing protection, safety footwear).
• All employees must apply ergonomic correctness to all job tasks.
• May be required for involvement in hearing conservation, wearing safety shoes or boots, and participation in the stretching program.

• Exposure to manufacturing noise, airborne liquid chemicals, fine particulate dust, ambient temperatures, and industrial lighting.
• Work involves operating machinery, possible exposure to excessive noise, temperatures, vibrations, and confined quarters. The environment is similar to most manufacturing operations.

Revised 2/15/21