CNC Operator - Entry

CNC Operator - Entry

Location:

New Market, VA
Shift options: 2nd shift (2:45 pm – 11:15 pm) or 3rd shift (10:45 pm – 7:15 am)

Operating an automated machine such as a CNC or other manufacturing equipment to produce high‑quality parts. Set up complex, customized production equipment and manage a single‑step or multi‑step process.

• Manufacture sufficient quantities of quality products at or below budgeted production costs to meet marketplace demand.
• Set up equipment operation feed, speed, and temperature; follow established procedures for operating conventional and/or CNC manufacturing equipment for cutting, punching, forming, drilling, tapping, turning, milling and stamping.
• Select and measure raw materials and parts to specifications to prepare for production processing.
• Resolve issues related to the organization’s production, machinery, processing, and/or packaging operations.
• Operates basic level programming.
• Set up and operate machine tools such as mill‑turns, mills, lathes, or grinders efficiently and timely.
• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.
• Read blueprints and perform inspections to ensure external and internal quality specifications using precision gaging tools.
• Operate two or more CNC machines simultaneously, if required.
• Perform specialized technical tasks required to support operations within the Manufacturing/Operations Function as a generalist or in a combination of disciplines.

• High‑school degree.
• 1–3 years of machine operation experience.
• Vocational training or equivalent experience; external certification may be required.
• Technical school certification or apprenticeship completion preferred.
• Manufacturing experience of 1–3 years in automated/CNC work.

• Basic troubleshooting and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to modify G‑code programs and handle basic CNC complexity.
• Analytical and operational process knowledge.
• Complete assignments within own area of expertise following standard operating procedures.
• Accurate documentation, electronic data entry, and communication.
• Strong written instruction comprehension and communication skills.
• Attention to detail in reading process instructions and drawings.
• Adherence to safety policies for a 100% safe work environment.
• Support Lean Enterprise initiatives and continuous improvement.
• Intermediate knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and precision measurement tools.
• Shop math skills including geometry and conversions.
• Manufacturing and product knowledge.
• Team‑based work and interpersonal communication skills.

• Limited day‑to‑day variability.
• Work with moderate supervision.

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.