Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Machine Operator supports EMI Industries’ woodshop/millwork operations in Cranston by setting up and operating CNC routers, edge banders, and saws to fabricate wood and panel components to specification. This role is responsible for reading and interpreting job travelers, blueprints, and cut lists; setting up tooling and fixtures; monitoring quality throughout the production run; and performing routine machine maintenance. The Machine Operator plays a key role in ensuring parts are produced accurately, safely, and on schedule to support downstream assembly and shipping.

Essential Job Functions:

• Set up and operate CNC routers/machining centers, including loading programs, setting work offsets, and installing tooling per job specifications.
• Set up and operate edge banding equipment to apply edge banding material to panel components, ensuring proper adhesion, trim, and finish quality.
• Set up and operate saws (table saw, panel saw, etc.) to cut wood/panel stock to specified dimensions.
• Read and interpret job travelers, cut lists, blueprints, and CAD/CNC program files to determine correct setup, tooling, and machining sequence.
• Inspect finished parts using measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, squares) to verify dimensional accuracy and conformance to specifications; flag and report non-conforming parts.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and minor troubleshooting (e.g., changing router bits/blades, clearing jams, cleaning dust collection) to keep equipment running efficiently.
• Maintain accurate production records, including quantities produced, scrap, and downtime, in accordance with EMI’s production tracking procedures.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, dust masks) when operating machinery.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including routine housekeeping and proper storage of materials, tooling, and scrap.
• Communicate with Production Planning, Supervisors, and other operators to coordinate job sequencing and material flow.
• Support continuous improvement efforts to reduce scrap, improve setup times, and enhance part quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business needs.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Prior experience operating CNC equipment, edge banders, and/or panel/table saws in a woodworking, millwork, or cabinetry environment preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, cut lists, and job travelers.
• Basic math skills, including the ability to take accurate measurements and perform simple calculations.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform basic machine setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts.
• Ability to work safely around moving machinery and power tools, following all safety protocols.
• Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver wood/panel stock and finished components as required.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Good attendance and reliability; ability to work assigned shift, including occasional overtime.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Forklift certification, or willingness to obtain one, is a plus.

Education and/or Experience:

• High school diploma or G.E.D. preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of one (1) to three (3) years of experience operating CNC machinery, edge banders, or saws in a woodworking or manufacturing environment preferred; entry-level candidates with strong mechanical aptitude may be considered for training.
• Prior experience in a millwork, cabinetry, or custom wood products environment is a plus.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods on the shop floor. The employee must be able to lift and/or move wood/panel stock and finished components weighing up to 50 pounds regularly, and occasionally lift/move objects up to 75 pounds with assistance. Repetitive motion (loading/unloading material, operating machine controls) is required throughout the shift. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• The primary working conditions are those of a woodshop/manufacturing floor environment, with exposure to wood dust, noise from CNC equipment, edge banders, and saws, and occasional strong odors from adhesives and finishing materials. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and dust masks is required at all times on the production floor. The noise level is typically moderate.