CNC Operator 1

reliance•Salt Lake City, UT

About The Position

The CNC Operator 1 sets up, programs, operates, and monitors CNC thermal cutting systems—including plasma, oxy-fuel, and laser cutting tables—to process heavy steel plates and structural metals. The role uses engineering drawings and production schedules to produce cuts accurately and efficiently, optimizing plate layouts and material yield while minimizing scrap. It includes adjusting machine settings for different materials and thicknesses, performing routine inspections and maintenance, checking finished parts against dimensional and edge-quality specifications, and preparing parts for subsequent processing or shipping. The operator works in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and must follow plant safety requirements, OSHA standards, and PPE rules.

Requirements

Advanced mechanical aptitude and a deep understanding of heavy industrial fabrication principles, thermal cutting dynamics, and metal properties.
Ability to read and interpret complex engineering blueprints, CAD drawings, and fabrication nesting diagrams.
Strong working knowledge of plate nesting software, cutting parameters, and yield optimization techniques.
Proficiency with precision measurement instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures.
Ability to troubleshoot operational errors, gas-flow issues, and torch-alignment problems quickly to minimize downtime.
Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate with crane operators, supervisors, and internal sales and production teams.

Responsibilities

Configure, operate, and monitor CNC plasma, laser, and oxy-fuel cutting machines to process heavy steel plates and structural metals according to engineering drawings and production schedules.
Adjust torch heights, gas pressures, cutting speeds, and kerf widths based on material type and thickness.
Perform pre-operation inspections, cleaning, and preventative maintenance on machinery, consumables, and torch heads.
Use CAD/CAM software and nesting tools to optimize plate utilization, part layouts, and material yield while reducing scrap.
Review shop floor drawings, bills of materials, and nesting reports to verify dimensional accuracy and material grades before cutting.
Measure finished parts with precision instruments to verify compliance with dimensional tolerances.
Inspect cut edges for dross, bevel accuracy, and surface defects, and adjust machine settings as needed.
Label, sort, and stage cut parts and plate skeletons for secondary processing or shipping.
Follow OSHA standards, plant safety guidelines, and PPE requirements.
Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area around cutting tables, staging zones, and scrap bins.