Cnc Machine Operator

Tool Grinder / CNC Machine Operator

This role is responsible for setting up and operating tool grinding and CNC machines to produce tooling that meets manufacturer and customer specifications. You will interpret each customer's job application, ensure tools are manufactured correctly, and perform work in alignment with established safety standards, quality procedures, and core workplace behaviors.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate tool grinding and CNC machines to produce tooling according to manufacturer and customer specifications.
• Review and understand each customer job application to ensure tools are made correctly for the intended use.
• Sort tooling and organize workpieces, fixtures, and related materials prior to production.
• Set up machines and prepare jobs to be run for each specific application, including selecting appropriate tooling and fixtures.
• Grind tooling according to detailed tool specifications, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Clean and inspect machinery, tools, and work areas to maintain a safe and efficient production environment.
• Inspect jobs after final operations to verify that dimensions, quality, and finish meet specified requirements.
• Respond to commonly occurring machine or production problems using established standards, procedures, or precedents.
• Perform all tasks in accordance with ISO requirements and internal quality standards.
• Promote and support a strong safety culture by following safety procedures and encouraging safe work practices.
• Exhibit and model core workplace behaviors and support a positive team culture.
• Use inspection tools and gauges to verify dimensions and tolerances on finished parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints and job documentation housed on digital devices to guide setup and production.
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet production goals and resolve issues as they arise.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with tool grinding and CNC machine operation in a machine shop environment.
• Ability to set up and operate grinding machines, including Tru-Tech grinders, cylindrical grinding machines, and manual grinding machines.
• Knowledge of material and tooling types and how they affect grinding and machining processes.
• Understanding of what each tool is, how it is used, and how application requirements influence tool geometry.
• Ability to identify bad grinds, chips, and other defects using eye loupes and magnifiers.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints to determine dimensions, tolerances, and required features.
• Ability to use measuring tools such as micrometers, Vernier calipers, and radius gauges accurately.
• Knowledge of how to select the appropriate grinding wheel for each job based on material and application.
• Competence in applying math skills and tool geometry concepts to set up and verify machining operations.
• Experience with machining operations including lathe, mill, and general machine operation.
• Ability to perform part inspection and verify that finished components meet specifications.
• Capability to follow ISO procedures and quality standards in daily work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in a production-oriented machine shop environment.
• Familiarity with CNC machine setup and operation for grinding and machining applications.
• Comfort using digital tools, including tablets or similar devices, to access blueprints and job instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and a quality-focused mindset when inspecting tools and parts.
• Ability to troubleshoot common machine and process issues using established guidelines.
• Good communication skills to work effectively within a small team environment.
• Physical ability to regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds and perform tasks that require standing, walking, and reaching throughout the shift.

Why Work Here?

You will join a small, collaborative team where your work directly supports high-profile, precision-driven projects. Each team member receives a dedicated tablet to access blueprints and job information, enabling efficient and modern workflows. The workplace fosters a sense of community through monthly family-style lunches and a supportive culture that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Work Environment

Work takes place in a climate-controlled machine shop with generally good working conditions. The environment may be slightly dirty at times or involve occasional exposure to shop elements typical of machining operations. Work is typically performed during regular daytime hours, Monday through Friday, with the possibility of occasional schedule adjustments that may include some weekends or evenings. The role involves frequent standing, walking, sitting, and using hands to handle or feel objects, tools, and controls, as well as reaching with hands and arms. You will regularly use computers, tablets, and other equipment to access blueprints and job information. The position requires the ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds and maintain close vision and clear focus for detailed inspection work. Dress is consistent with a machine shop environment, emphasizing safety and practicality while working around machinery and tools.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of O Fallon, MO.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/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)

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 6, 2026.