CNC Machine Operator

Job Title: CNC Machine Operator

Job Description

The CNC Machine Operator sets up, operates, and tears down CNC mills and lathes to produce high-quality parts in a machining and assembly environment. This role goes beyond simple machine operation and includes performing tool changes, reading and interpreting blueprints, using precision measuring instruments, and performing basic machine maintenance to ensure consistent, accurate, and defect-free parts.

Responsibilities

• Set up CNC mills and lathes, including installing fixtures, tools, and workpieces according to job specifications.
• Perform tool changes on CNC mills and lathes to support different operations and maintain production efficiency.
• Operate CNC machines to produce parts in accordance with drawings, work instructions, and production requirements.
• Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings to understand dimensions, tolerances, and machining requirements.
• Use micrometers and calipers to measure and verify part dimensions, ensuring all parts meet specified tolerances.
• Inspect parts during and after production to identify flaws or defects and make necessary adjustments to the machine or process.
• Perform minor and routine maintenance on CNC machines, such as cleaning, lubrication, and basic troubleshooting, with training provided as needed.
• Monitor machine performance during operation and respond promptly to alarms, quality issues, or process deviations.
• Follow established safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area around the machines.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production schedules and quality standards.
• Document production information as required, including counts, measurements, and any issues encountered during runs.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of experience setting up CNC machines, specifically mills or lathes, in a manufacturing environment.
• At least 1 year of experience performing tool changes on CNC mills or lathes.
• At least 1 year of CNC machine operation experience on mills or lathes in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and use precision measuring instruments, specifically micrometers and calipers.
• Hands-on experience with CNC machining, including machine operation and basic setup.
• Ability to operate both CNC mills and CNC lathes or a strong background in one with willingness to learn the other.
• Strong attention to detail when inspecting parts and verifying dimensions.
• Ability to read and follow technical instructions and production documentation.
• Commitment to safe work practices in a machining and assembly environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Experience performing basic machine maintenance on CNC equipment.
• Familiarity with flexible shaft couplings, gears, speed drives, or other power transmission components is beneficial.
• Comfort working around machining processes such as milling, turning, and general machine operation.
• Willingness to train on additional maintenance tasks and processes as needed.
• Stable work history with clear, constructive reasons for job changes.

Why Work Here?

You join a long-established manufacturer in the power transmission market that offers stability, growth, and a supportive culture. The company provides flexible hours once you transition to direct employment, as well as benefits that typically include 401(k), health, and dental options. You work in a mid-sized organization where your contributions are visible and valued, with opportunities to develop your CNC skills and expand your experience in machining and assembly. The company combines the heritage of a business founded in 1920 with the resources of a larger international organization, creating a balance of tradition, innovation, and long-term career potential.

Work Environment

The facility focuses on machining and assembly for power transmission components such as flexible shaft couplings, gears, speed drives, and related parts. The company employs roughly 80 people, offering a mid-sized, team-oriented environment. The primary production area is fairly clean and bright, with a long line of CNC machines and related equipment. A second plant includes a large warehouse and several small assembly stations. While the environment is not climate controlled, it is described as not excessively hot, with typical machining smells of oil and metal. Work is organized on two shifts: first shift runs Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and second shift runs Monday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., with second-shift employees initially training on first shift. Dress expectations align with a machining and manufacturing environment, emphasizing safety and practicality around CNC machines and related equipment

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of South Haven, MI.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $24.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in South Haven,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 4, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.