CNC Machinist

Job Title: CNC Operator

Job Description

The CNC Operator sets up and runs CNC equipment to produce precision parts according to drawings, blueprints, and written specifications. This role selects tooling, determines feeds and speeds, performs first article inspections, and makes adjustments to maintain quality and productivity. The CNC Operator also supports other operators, performs secondary operations, and contributes to a clean, safe, and efficient manufacturing environment across multiple shift options.

Responsibilities

• Promote and maintain a proactive safety culture by following all safety procedures and reporting unsafe conditions to supervision or maintenance.
• Work from drawings, blueprints, job layouts, and other written specifications to determine appropriate feeds, speeds, tooling, and operational sequences.
• Set up CNC machines and produce a first article part for any proven program, submitting it for Quality Assurance verification with a target of at least an 80% approval rate.
• Install cutting tools and various work-holding devices, such as vises and fixtures, to handle different sizes and types of stock to be machined.
• Change cutting tools and adjust the location of workpieces during the machining process to maintain correct dimensions and surface finishes.
• Operate and adjust CNC machines so that parts produced conform to specifications and meet established time standards.
• Make necessary adjustments to machine offsets and set-ups during production runs to maintain accurate and consistent output.
• Ensure completeness and accuracy of secondary set-ups required to finish parts to specification.
• Detect and report improper machine operation, faulty equipment, unusual conditions, and significant variances from job standards.
• Run multiple CNC machines as needed to support production requirements.
• Perform secondary operations as defined by the traveler, using machines and tools such as files, drill presses, and sanders.
• Assist other operators by advising which dimensions to inspect and which tools and gauges to use for verification.
• Ensure the quality of parts before forwarding them to the next operation or process, following established inspection and documentation procedures.
• Train and monitor the work of operators assigned to a machine after completion and verification of the first article part.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the assigned work area and contribute to general housekeeping throughout the facility.
• Use micrometers, calipers, height gauges, dial indicators, and other precision measuring equipment to verify part dimensions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support production and continuous improvement activities.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience operating CNC machines, including the ability to run multiple CNC machines in a production environment.
• Ability to install a vise, cut jaws, and pick up zeros on CNC equipment.
• Experience setting up a 3-axis CNC mill, including selecting tooling and establishing work and tool offsets.
• Ability to replace tooling in a CNC machine independently, including setting a new Z tool height and replacing broken or worn tools in holders.
• Strong understanding of machine offsets and experience adjusting them to maintain part accuracy.
• Experience using an edge finder and dial indicator for part and fixture alignment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and other technical drawings accurately.
• Proficient use of micrometers, calipers, height gauges, dial indicators, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Capability to determine appropriate feeds, speeds, and tooling based on material and job requirements.
• Ability to detect improper operation, faulty equipment, and unusual conditions and communicate issues promptly.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC mills and lathes, including familiarity with Haas or similar CNC equipment.
• Experience performing secondary operations such as drilling, filing, and sanding using drill presses, sanders, and hand tools.
• Comfort working from travelers and production documentation to complete jobs accurately.
• Experience supporting or training other CNC operators on inspection points and proper use of gauges.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment with multiple machines and priorities.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a clean, climate-controlled manufacturing environment and the opportunity to work with a well-established organization that partners with major government contractors. Upon conversion to full-time status, team members become eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical coverage through a major insurer starting on the first of the month after 60 days of full-time employment, paid holidays, and two weeks of vacation. Off-shift employees receive a 10% shift differential when they become regular employees, providing additional earning potential. Multiple shift options support different scheduling needs while offering stable, long-term career growth in precision manufacturing.

Work Environment

The facility offers a clean, climate-controlled work environment with a fairly large CNC department of approximately 12 operators per shift. The work takes place near moving mechanical parts and involves exposure to airborne particles and chemicals, with noise levels typically very loud. Appropriate personal protective equipment is required, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety shoes. Multiple structured shift options are available: A Shift runs Monday through Thursday for 10-hour daytime shifts with Friday through Sunday off; B Shift runs Monday through Thursday from approximately 4:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. with Friday through Sunday off; C Shift runs Friday through Sunday from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. plus Monday from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., with Tuesday through Thursday off; D Shift runs Friday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. plus early Tuesday morning hours, with the remainder of the week off. The environment emphasizes safety, cleanliness, and teamwork among a dedicated group of CNC professionals.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of RALEIGH, NC.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $26.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in RALEIGH,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

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.