Job Title: CNC Operator
Job Description
This role focuses on setting up and operating 5-axis CNC machines to efficiently and safely produce high-quality parts and materials. You will interpret technical drawings, translate instructions into machine commands, and ensure that each component meets precise engineering specifications. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work with advanced CNC controls and precision measuring tools in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
Set up, maintain, and operate CNC machines, including 5-axis CNC machines, to perform a variety of machining functions.
Review job specifications by reading blueprints, mechanical drawings, and other technical documents to understand the required outcome.
Translate written and verbal instructions into computer commands so the machines can perform the correct functions.
Read and interpret G-codes and M-codes to operate the CNC programs and machines correctly.
Verify tool lists in programs and ensure the correct tools and tool numbers are used for each job.
Manually install and change tools in CNC machines as required by the program and job specifications.
Load the appropriate CNC programs needed to machine specific parts and components.
Set up and adjust fixtures according to the parts being machined to ensure proper alignment and stability.
Identify, pull, and verify the correct materials required to fulfill each order.
Multitask by operating two CNC machines simultaneously to produce parts for different orders when required.
Load raw materials into CNC machines and unload finished or semi-finished parts from the machines.
Deburr and inspect machined parts to ensure they meet customer drawings and requirements.
Perform secondary operations such as sanding, deburring, labeling, packaging, completing required forms, and cutting material.
Cut material using a table saw and/or band saw as needed to support production.
Prepare and run test cycles to confirm that machines produce outputs according to specifications before full production.
Set machines to run full cycles to fabricate large quantities of parts efficiently and consistently.
Monitor machines while they execute tasks and make necessary adjustments to improve quality or efficiency.
Inspect and measure finished products using precision instruments and compare results to requirements to confirm proper completion of processes.
Check and perform daily maintenance on machinery to ensure proper functionality and minimize downtime.
Maintain a lean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with workplace standards.
Complete assigned tasks within established production schedules and timelines.
Maintain housekeeping standards in assigned areas to support a clean and safe manufacturing environment.
Use tools and equipment such as tape measures, calipers, sandpaper, orbital sanders, power tools, manual tools, table saws, band saws, compressed air, label machines, personal computers or laptops, and Excel spreadsheet software.
Follow written and verbal instructions accurately and consistently.
Adhere to company policies, quality system documentation, and health and safety requirements.
Work overtime as needed to meet production demands.
Lift materials and parts up to 50 pounds continually and stand for the duration of the shift while working around heavy industrial CNC machinery.
Essential Skills
Minimum 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
Minimum 2+ years of experience operating 5-axis CNC machines.
Proficiency in CNC operation, including the use of CNC controls, CNC mills, CNC lathes, and Fanuc controls.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and engineering documents.
Proficiency in the use of precision measuring instruments, including dial, vernier, and digital calipers; outside and inside micrometers; dial indicators and test indicators; height gauges; surface plates; and gauge blocks.
Ability to understand and inspect Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), including true position, flatness, perpendicularity, parallelism, concentricity, profile of a surface, and datum structures and reference frames.
Ability to verify part conformance to engineering specifications and tolerance requirements.
Mechanical aptitude and solid general math skills.
Basic understanding of computer programming and CAD/CAM concepts.
Ability to use manual and power tools, including standard and metric tape measures, digital calipers, sandpaper, orbital sanders, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, table saws, band saws, compressed air tools, and label machines.
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Ability to read, comprehend, and perform according to quality system documentation.
Ability to operate a computer and use basic software such as Excel spreadsheets.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
Ability to work overtime as needed to support production requirements.
Ability to understand and comply with company policies and health and safety requirements.
Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled manufacturing facility.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds continually throughout the shift.
Ability to stand for the duration of the shift while performing production tasks.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Technical or vocational training in machining is preferred.
Experience in aerospace, medical, defense, or precision manufacturing environments is preferred.
Experience with CNC machining, including both milling and turning operations.
Experience using micrometers, gauges, and other precision measurement tools in a production setting.
Forklift certification.
Comfort working with CAD/CAM-related workflows and basic computer programming concepts.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
Ability to maintain consistent attendance in line with company attendance policies.
Ability to work effectively as part of a production team and communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors.
Why Work Here?
This opportunity offers a stable path for long-term employment with the chance to deepen your expertise on advanced 5-axis CNC machinery. You will receive training on the specific machines used in the facility while building on your existing CNC experience. Once you transition to full-time status, you gain access to a comprehensive benefits package. When available, overtime provides the potential to increase your earnings. You will work in a professional manufacturing environment where skills development, reliability, and safety are highly valued.
Work Environment
The role is based in a manufacturing facility that operates with heavy industrial CNC machinery and related equipment. You will work as part of a team of approximately 50 employees, including around 10 CNC operators, in a collaborative production environment. The facility is non-climate-controlled, so temperatures may vary with the seasons. The work requires standing for the duration of the shift, frequently lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in proximity to moving machinery and cutting equipment such as table saws and band saws. You will regularly use precision measuring tools, hand tools, power tools, and computer systems, including PCs or laptops and spreadsheet software. Safety, organization, and housekeeping are emphasized to maintain a functional and secure workspace.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Desoto, TX.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $52000.00 - $60840.00/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.
Full benefits
401k
Medical, dental, 401k
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Desoto,TX.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 27, 2026.
About Aerotek
Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.