CNC Router Operator

Join the Bridgewater Studio Team: CNC Router Operator

Date: 10/21/2026

Bridgewater Studio is growing! We're looking for a skilled and detail-oriented CNC Router Operator to join our fast-moving, creative, and collaborative team.

Who We Are

Located in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood, Bridgewater Studio is a nationally recognized Experiential Design and Production Agency. We create immersive, story-driven environments for some of the world's most recognizable brands and institutions, including the Smithsonian, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Universal Studios, Nike, and LinkedIn.

Every project is different, and our team works together to bring big ideas to life through custom design, fabrication, and production. We're looking for problem solvers, self-starters, and team players who enjoy hands-on work and take pride in what they create.

Who We're Looking For

We're looking for a CNC Router Operator who enjoys working with their hands, solving problems, and producing high-quality custom parts. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced fabrication environment, managing multiple priorities, and following computer-based work orders with minimal supervision.

What Makes a Great Candidate

• Experience setting up and operating CNC machinery, preferably in a woodworking or custom fabrication environment.

• Knowledge of CNC machine setup, calibration, and operation.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

• Ability to read and follow work orders and production instructions.

• Ability to identify defective materials, recognize quality issues, and communicate concerns to the department supervisor.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating with a team.

• Commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and repeatedly lift up to 75 pounds.

• Willingness to follow all safety procedures, including wearing safety glasses and hearing protection.

The Role

As a CNC Router Operator, you'll help bring custom fabrication projects to life by setting up and operating CNC machinery to produce wood components of varying sizes and complexity. Our shop handles frequent machine setups and low-volume, custom production, so no two days are exactly alike.

Responsibilities include:

• Setting up, calibrating, and operating CNC machinery to fabricate wood parts according to work orders and quality standards.

• Loading and unloading materials in accordance with established company procedures.

• Monitoring production to ensure accuracy, consistency, and quality.

• Identifying and reporting defective materials or production issues to the department supervisor.

• Performing routine equipment maintenance and troubleshooting as needed.

• Keeping machinery, tools, and work areas clean, organized, and properly maintained.

• Following manufacturer instructions and established safety procedures.

• Working with the production team to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.

This is a hands-on opportunity to develop your CNC skills while contributing to a wide variety of custom fabrication projects.

Compensation & Benefits

This is a full-time, onsite position in Chicago, offering competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical and dental insurance

• Short-term and long-term disability insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid vacation and sick time

• 401(k) with company match

• Wellness benefits

• Employee assistance program

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bridgewater Studio is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.

How to Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to View email address on click.appcast.io.

Want to learn more? Visit us at

Bridgewater Studio Hiring Team

4834 S Oakley Ave, Chicago, IL 60609