CNC Operator 3

Burke Porter, an Ascential Technologies Brand • Grand Rapids, MI

7d

About The Position

The CNC Machinist III sets up, operates, programs, and optimizes CNC milling equipment to produce precision components in a low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environment. The role requires advanced machining knowledge and the ability to independently manage complex jobs while ensuring parts meet engineering specifications, quality standards, and production requirements. The CNC Machinist III also serves as a technical resource within the department, supports process improvement initiatives, and helps train and mentor less experienced machinists.

Requirements

• Journeyman Machinist certification or 5–8 years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Advanced CNC setup, operation, and programming experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical documentation.
• Knowledge and application of GD&T principles.
• Experience with CAM programming software.
• Strong shop math skills, including geometry, trigonometry, and dimensional calculations.
• Experience using precision measuring equipment and inspection techniques.
• Knowledge of high-speed carbide tooling and machining best practices.
• Ability to train and mentor new employees.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts and overhead cranes.
• Ability to provide and maintain personal measuring instruments and hand tools.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and capable of working independently.
• Ability to work overtime and occasional weekends as business needs require.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Visi CAM software.
• Experience machining a variety of materials in a custom, low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment.
• Experience with process improvement and machining optimization initiatives.
• Prior mentoring, training, or leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, program, and optimize CNC milling machines to produce precision components in a low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environment.
• Create, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs using CAM software; select tooling, workholding, speeds, and feeds to improve efficiency and quality.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements to ensure dimensional accuracy and compliance.
• Inspect parts using precision measuring equipment and verify conformance to quality requirements throughout manufacturing.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, setup, and program issues; adjust offsets and machining parameters to improve productivity, cycle times, tool life, and process performance.
• Train and mentor new machinists on machine operation, setup procedures, quality standards, and safe work practices, and serve as a departmental technical resource.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, production, and other team members to resolve manufacturing challenges and support continuous improvement.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment and comply with quality, safety, environmental, and company policies and procedures.
• Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and other shop equipment safely.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed