CNC Machine Operator

POSITION: CNC Machine Operator
SHIFT: Monday - Thursday, 6:00 am - 4:30 pm (OT as required)
PAY RATE: $24.00 - $27.00+ per hour (DOE) + Full Benefit Package
LOCATION: Minnkota Windows West Fargo, ND

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The CNC Machine Operator is responsible for the safe, accurate, and efficient operation of our CNC equipment that is used in the fabrication of Minnkota Windows products. This position ensures profiles are cut to specification by following work orders, verifying production information, monitoring machine performance, and performing quality inspections throughout the manufacturing process. The CNC Machine Operator is also responsible for operating other automated cutting/processing equipment, maintaining quality standards, minimizing scrap, and ensuring production goals are met.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Embrace and demonstrate the qualities of the Minnkota Windows Game Changer definition.
• Engage in team-based lean and continuous improvement activities to improve workflows and efficiency.
• Safe operation of the assigned equipment after completing required training and qualification.
• Perform approved startup, operation, changeover, and shutdown procedures, including use of the CNC touchscreen/control, material loading system, work holding fixtures, machining area, and outfeed system.
• Review work orders and verify correct profile, material, color, fin configuration, quantity, and machine instructions before production.
• Confirm MasterPoint-generated saw files match the intended production work and report missing, incomplete, or questionable information before continuing production.
• Load vinyl profiles in the proper orientation and monitor material flow through the machine.
• Monitor machine status, cutting performance, finished-part discharge, system messages, and overall operation during production.
• Inspect first-piece and production cuts using approved measuring tools, work instructions, and quality standards to verify accuracy before and during production.
• Identify and separate nonconforming material and notify the appropriate personnel of recurring quality concerns.
• Properly identify, label, bin, stage, or transfer completed material for downstream production.
• Minimize scrap through proper material handling, machine operation, and approved optimization processes.
• Follow all machine guarding, light-curtain, emergency-stop, interlock, and other safety-device requirements; never bypass or interfere with required safeguards.
• Stop operation and report unusual machine conditions, faults, damaged tooling or fixtures, poor cut quality, or safety concerns.
• Perform authorized operator-level cleaning, inspections, and routine equipment checks.
• Coordinate equipment problems with Production Leadership, Maintenance, Technical Services, Quality, or other support personnel as appropriate.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe machine and material-handling area.
• Cross-train and maintain qualification on the existing equipment to provide dependable production coverage.
• Learn related production processes and assist in other production areas when needed.
• Participate in profile validation, production-cut testing, equipment training, and continuous-improvement activities.
• Prompt and dependable attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALITIES

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability and willingness to learn CNC, automated saw, and related production equipment.
• Ability to safely follow work orders, standard work instructions, machine procedures, safety requirements, and verbal or written direction.
• Comfort using touchscreen controls, production software, and basic computer functions.
• Ability to accurately read a tape measure and use approved measuring tools to verify part quality and dimensions.
• Basic math and measurement skills, including the ability to work with fractions, decimals, and production specifications as required.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify differences in profiles, colors, materials, job information, and finished-part quality.
• Ability to recognize abnormal machine operation, quality concerns, tooling issues, material concerns, or questionable production data.
• Good problem-solving and communication skills, including knowing when to stop production and request assistance.
• Safety-conscious, dependable, accountable, and committed to following established procedures.
• Willingness to cross-train, learn related production processes, and adapt to changing production needs.
• Ability to work independently while cooperating effectively with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Technical Services, and other departments.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous manufacturing, production, fabrication, machining, window/door, vinyl-profile, or related hands-on work experience preferred.
• Experience operating CNC equipment, automated saws, machining centers, industrial machinery, or other computer-controlled production equipment preferred but not required.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, production instructions, measurements, safety procedures, and quality standards required.
• Successful completion of required Minnkota and manufacturer equipment, safety, quality, and operator training is required before independent operation.