CNC Operator – 5-Axis CNC Routing Table
Position Summary
The CNC Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, and routine maintenance of CNC equipment used to manufacture components according to established specifications and quality standards. The primary CNC equipment for this position is a 5-axis CNC routing table; therefore, candidates with hands-on experience operating and setting up 5-axis CNC routers or comparable multi-axis routing equipment are strongly preferred.
This position requires the ability to independently read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings, perform machine setups, select appropriate tooling, monitor production, inspect finished components, and troubleshoot machining or quality issues.
While experience with CNC mills, lathes, or other machining centers is beneficial, 5-axis CNC routing table experience is the CNC background most relevant to this position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Set up and operate a 5-axis CNC routing table to manufacture components according to blueprints, drawings, and production specifications.
- Load and position raw materials appropriately for machining.
- Select and install appropriate tooling based on material, specifications, and production requirements.
- Set and adjust machine parameters, tooling, offsets, feeds, speeds, and other operating settings as necessary.
- Load and execute CNC programs and monitor equipment throughout the machining process.
- Perform test runs and first-piece inspections to verify proper machine setup and part quality.
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and other manufacturing documentation.
- Inspect raw materials, work-in-process, and finished components to ensure compliance with established quality standards.
- Utilize appropriate measuring and inspection equipment to verify dimensions and tolerances.
- Identify and troubleshoot machine, tooling, setup, programming, and part-quality issues.
- Make appropriate machine or process adjustments to maintain product quality and production efficiency.
- Perform routine preventive maintenance, cleaning, and inspections of CNC equipment.
- Identify equipment or tooling concerns and communicate maintenance needs before they result in equipment downtime or quality issues.
- Maintain accurate production, inspection, and machine maintenance documentation.
- Follow all established manufacturing procedures, work instructions, and safety requirements.
- Coordinate with Production, Engineering, Quality, and other team members to resolve manufacturing issues.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to quality, productivity, setup reduction, and CNC operations.
- Perform other related manufacturing duties as assigned.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Previous hands-on experience setting up and operating CNC equipment.
- Experience with a 5-axis CNC routing table or comparable multi-axis CNC routing equipment is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge of CNC machine setup, operation, tooling, and basic maintenance.
- Ability to independently read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and manufacturing specifications.
- Understanding of machining processes, tooling, materials, feeds, speeds, tolerances, and dimensional requirements.
- Ability to perform machine setups and adjustments rather than solely loading and unloading production parts.
- Experience using precision measuring and inspection equipment.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to identify and resolve machine, tooling, setup, and part-quality issues.
- Strong attention to detail with a commitment to producing quality work.
- Ability to work independently and effectively as part of a manufacturing team.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of manufacturing safety procedures and regulations.
- Ability to maintain an organized and safe work environment.
- Ability to lift and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on 5-axis CNC routing table experience.
- Experience setting up multi-axis CNC equipment.
- CNC programming or program-editing experience.
- Experience optimizing tooling, feeds, speeds, and machine parameters.
- Experience in a high-mix manufacturing environment.
- Technical or trade school education in CNC machining, manufacturing technology, or a related field.
- Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand and work around manufacturing equipment for extended periods.
- Ability to bend, reach, lift, and position materials as required.
- Ability to safely handle tooling, raw materials, and finished components.
Key Experience for This Position
This position is specifically focused on CNC routing rather than traditional CNC mill or lathe machining. Candidates with direct experience setting up and operating a 5-axis CNC routing table will be given strongest consideration.
Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Profit sharing
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- 5-Axis CNC Routing Table: 5 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
