Cnc Machinist

CNC Mill Operator / Machinist (1st Shift)

Join a precision job shop as a CNC Mill Operator / Machinist on 1st shift, where you will set up, program, and run CNC milling equipment in a low-volume, high-mix environment. You will be responsible for accurate machine set-up, efficient production, and strict adherence to quality standards using a variety of tools, fixtures, and metrology equipment.

Responsibilities

• Check work instructions, material type, and material size to ensure accurate job set-up before starting each job.
• Receive, load, and run CNC programs; modify, edit, and adjust programs as needed to ensure optimum production and efficiency, including setting appropriate tool offsets.
• Set up, run, and oversee multiple CNC machines simultaneously to maximize productivity and machine utilization.
• Manufacture or select appropriate tooling and fixtures required to complete each job safely and efficiently.
• Run production jobs, including required secondary operations such as drilling, deburring, and polishing, within routed timeframes on a variety of machinery and equipment.
• Visually inspect production parts for surface finish and defects, including burrs, scratches, rust, and other nonconformities.
• Perform detailed product quality checks against blueprints or drawings using micrometers, calipers, profile projectors/comparators, and other calibrated measuring equipment to ensure all quality standards are met or exceeded.
• Count, mark, and pack parts when needed to support production and shipping requirements.
• Perform mechanical tasks such as loading and unloading vises, fixtures, and parts on CNC and related equipment.
• Return all tools to the tool crib and all measuring equipment to the quality department after use to maintain organization and calibration control.
• Communicate instructions and oversee jobs run by lower-skilled personnel as needed, providing guidance to ensure quality and productivity.
• Keep the work area neat, clean, and orderly in accordance with company housekeeping standards.
• Complete Operations Sheets and other production documents neatly, accurately, and in a timely manner.
• Use real-time data collection systems effectively to record working hours and to log into and out of production operations.
• Work with leads and engineering personnel to ensure accurate set-up and run time estimates and to resolve process-related issues.
• Comply with all company and machine safety policies and procedures, including those outlined in work instructions and quality manuals.
• Follow work instructions, policies, and procedures that govern the quality system as defined by ISO/AS standards and documented in quality policy and procedure manuals.
• Communicate production information such as quality issues, scrap rates, and other problems to appropriate personnel including leads, supervisors, engineering, and the quality department.
• Participate in activities and training designed to increase personal skill level, improve departmental processes, and enhance overall product quality.
• Receive, understand, and follow all written and oral instructions related to job duties, safety, and quality.
• Work effectively with others to resolve day-to-day issues and support a collaborative team environment.
• Accept and complete other duties required to meet company needs as assigned by supervision.
• Remain accountable for accurate job set-up, meeting production rates outlined in the Operations Sheet, maintaining the quality of parts produced, and following established processes.

Essential Skills

• Expert technical ability to set up and run secondary operations, including drill press, deburring, and polishing.
• Ability to load and unload tools and enter tool offsets accurately as necessary for CNC milling operations.
• Expert technical ability to read, modify, and edit CNC programs, including experience with Fanuc controls.
• Strong ability to read, understand, and interpret blueprints and customer specifications, and assist others with interpretation when needed.
• Strong ability to use and interpret calibrated metrology devices for piece-part inspection, including micrometers, calipers, and profile projectors/comparators.
• Ability to distinguish different raw materials such as stainless steel versus cold rolled steel.
• Understanding of machining properties of various raw materials, including differences between grades such as 303 stainless steel and 304 stainless steel.
• Working knowledge of appropriate mathematical skills, including basic trigonometry applied to machining and inspection tasks.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Completion of OSHA-required training in Lock-out/Tag-out, Hazard Communication, personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency evacuation procedures.
• Willingness and ability to complete in-house training on all assigned machinery and equipment.
• Experience working in a job shop environment with low-quantity runs, typically 20-100 pieces per job.
• Proficiency in CNC mill set-up and operation in a production environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience overseeing or guiding lower-skilled machine operators to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Comfort using real-time data collection systems for time tracking and production logging.
• Attention to detail in documenting operations, completing Operations Sheets, and maintaining accurate production records.
• Strong problem-solving skills to resolve day-to-day production and quality issues collaboratively.
• Commitment to continuous improvement of personal skills, departmental processes, and product quality.
• Ability to maintain an organized work area and adhere to established tool and gage control procedures.

Why Work Here?

Employees work in a stable, team-oriented job shop environment that values long-term tenure and internal growth. The organization offers 401(k) matching, strong paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package upon becoming permanent. There is a clear focus on promoting from within, and many team members have built careers here over 15-30 years, reflecting a culture that invests in employee development and fosters long-term success.

Work Environment

This is a 1st shift role, working Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a typical workweek of approximately 45-50 hours. The facility is a smaller job shop with about 22 shop workers on 1st shift, creating a close-knit, collaborative environment. The shop features six brand-new CNC machines and supports low-quantity production runs, generally between 20 and 100 pieces per job. Work is performed on CNC mills and related equipment such as drill presses and deburring tools, with regular use of calibrated inspection equipment. Safety policies, OSHA training, and adherence to ISO/AS-based quality procedures are integral parts of the work setting, and appropriate PPE is provided and required according to company standards.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Elk Grove Village, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $52,000.00 - $72,800.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance. Life & Disability: Life and Short-Term Disability (STD) insurance. Retirement: 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions. Time Off: Paid vacations.