CNC Operator

CNC Operator - Valencia, CA

$24-25 / hourly

Temp to hire

The CNC Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines in machine shop, producing precision machined parts that meet blueprint specifications and quality standards. The role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, safety awareness, and ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up CNC machines (mills, lathes, drills, etc.) by installing tooling, fixtures, and attachments as required.
• Load raw material, align work pieces, and secure fixtures to machine tables or chucks.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and specifications including tolerances, dimensions, and finish requirements.
• Program or adjust CNC machine controls (feed rate, spindle speed, offset, tool path) when needed, especially during first-article runs or when tooling changes.
• Monitor machine operation and performance during production runs; detect malfunction or out-of-tolerance conditions and make needed adjustments.
• Measure parts using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, surface plates) to verify conformance to specifications.
• Perform in-process inspections and final inspections. Report quality issues or nonconformities to supervisors.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, cleaning, tool changes, and basic troubleshooting. Keep work area, tools, and machines clean.
• Maintain logs and records of production (machine settings, run times, maintenance, scrap, etc.).
• Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and housekeeping standards.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Desired Skills and Experience

The CNC Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines in machine shop, producing precision machined parts that meet blueprint specifications and quality standards. The role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, safety awareness, and ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

Set up CNC machines (mills, lathes, drills, etc.) by installing tooling, fixtures, and attachments as required.

Load raw material, align work pieces, and secure fixtures to machine tables or chucks.

Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and specifications including tolerances, dimensions, and finish requirements.

Program or adjust CNC machine controls (feed rate, spindle speed, offset, tool path) when needed, especially during first-article runs or when tooling changes.

Monitor machine operation and performance during production runs; detect malfunction or out-of-tolerance conditions and make needed adjustments.

Measure parts using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, surface plates) to verify conformance to specifications.

Perform in-process inspections and final inspections. Report quality issues or nonconformities to supervisors.

Perform routine machine maintenance, cleaning, tool changes, and basic troubleshooting. Keep work area, tools, and machines clean.

Maintain logs and records of production (machine settings, run times, maintenance, scrap, etc.).

Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and housekeeping standards.

Required Skills & Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required; technical or trade school training preferred.

Prior experience operating CNC mills and / or lathes, preferably in sheet metal or machine shop environment.

Ability to read and understand engineering drawings, blueprints, and dimensional tolerances.

Familiarity with precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators, etc.).

Basic mathematical skills needed for calculating measurements, feeds, speeds.

Mechanical aptitude; ability to adjust tooling, fixtures, and interpret deviation.

Good pace and ability to work production shifts; willing to work overtime when needed.

Physical & Other Requirements

Ability to lift / carry up to ~25-50 lbs depending on material; use of hoist / overhead crane for heavier pieces.

Standing for long periods; bending, reaching, occasionally climbing or using platforms.

Good vision (with correction if needed) to inspect details, small parts.

Teamwork and communication skills; ability to work under supervision but take initiative.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. For unincorporated Los Angeles county , to the extent our customers require a background check for certain positions, the Company faces a significant risk to its business operations and business reputation unless a review of criminal history is conducted for those specific job positions.