Cnc Operator

CNC Mill and Surface Grinder Operator

This role operates CNC milling and surface grinding equipment to produce precision components according to customer specifications and quality standards. The position requires careful review of work orders and blueprints, accurate machine setup and operation, and thorough inspection of finished parts to ensure they meet dimensional and tolerance requirements. The operator also supports continuous production by maintaining equipment, documenting work, and communicating effectively across shifts.

Responsibilities

• Review and verify the daily grinding schedule, cut sheets, work orders, and sales orders to understand customer instructions, tolerances, and production priorities.
• Read and interpret shop drawings and blueprints to determine product specifications, including dimensions, tolerances, number of parts, and tooling requirements.
• Set up and operate CNC milling machines, including Haas CNC mills, in accordance with safety and quality procedures.
• Set up and operate CNC surface grinders following established grinding procedures, tooling instructions, and standard charts.
• Adjust machines to meet dimensional requirements and ensure parts conform to specified tolerances and quality standards.
• Follow tooling instructions and standard charts to determine grinding speeds, feed rates, holding fixtures, and grinding wheels to be used.
• Load feed mechanisms by lifting and positioning stock safely and accurately for machining and grinding operations.
• Verify machine settings and setups by measuring positions, first-run parts, and sample workpieces, adhering to applicable international standards.
• Inspect and verify dimensions of ground and milled workpieces using measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and preset gauges.
• Identify and replace worn grinding wheels using appropriate tools, such as wrenches, to maintain consistent quality and safety.
• Check and verify equipment and finished items for defects prior to moving materials to the shipping area.
• Complete and deliver the Mill/Grinding Turnover of Information Report daily to the lead or supervisor of the following shift to maintain continuity of work.
• Maintain equipment by performing preventive maintenance, following manufacturer instructions, troubleshooting malfunctions, and requesting repairs when necessary.
• Document production activities and quality checks by accurately completing production and quality logs.
• Maintain continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions taken, irregularities observed, and ongoing needs.
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities and reading relevant technical publications.
• Support organizational goals by taking ownership of assigned tasks, responding to new requests, and seeking opportunities to improve processes and add value.
• Follow all safety procedures and quality standards while working in a metals processing environment.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of experience operating a CNC mill or CNC grinder.
• Hands-on experience operating CNC milling equipment, including Haas CNC mills.
• Hands-on experience operating CNC surface grinders or similar grinding machinery.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and job orders.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, and preset gauges.
• Experience performing quality inspections to verify dimensions and tolerances of machined and ground parts.
• Knowledge of CNC grinding or CNC milling processes and related tooling practices.
• Ability to follow tooling instructions and standard charts for speeds, feeds, fixtures, and grinding wheels.
• Basic troubleshooting skills for CNC mills and grinders and related production equipment.
• Ability to complete production and quality documentation accurately and on time.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality standards.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience performing machine setup for CNC mills or CNC grinders.
• Familiarity with overhead crane operation for moving materials and stock.
• Experience performing preventive maintenance on CNC and grinding equipment.
• Comfort working in a metals processing or industrial manufacturing environment.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing training and technical learning opportunities.

Why Work Here?

The organization operates as a large, established global steel processor serving diverse industries such as agriculture, automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and energy. Many team members have built long-term careers here, with a significant portion of employees staying for 20 or more years, reflecting strong stability and loyalty. Once hired into a permanent role, employees receive comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, and quarterly profit sharing. Health insurance and a generous PTO package are available from the first day of permanent employment, supporting both financial security and work-life balance. The company also invests in culture and engagement by organizing regular employee appreciation events, often held monthly, to recognize contributions and foster a sense of community.

Work Environment

The role is based in a metals processing environment with multiple machines and saws operating at the same time, resulting in a consistently loud workspace. The facility is clean, organized, and well lit for a steel processing operation, but it is not climate controlled, so temperatures may vary with the seasons. Safety is a top priority, and all team members follow strict safety procedures. Personal protective equipment is required, including a helmet, steel-toed shoes, and safety glasses. The work involves operating CNC mills and CNC surface grinders and working around heavy materials and equipment in an industrial production setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Carol Stream, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Carol Stream, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 2026.