CNC Plasma Operator

ND DEFENSE LLC•West Point, MS

10h•Onsite

About The Position

The CNC Plasma Cutting Table Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of computer-numerically controlled (CNC) plasma cutting equipment to produce precision metal components in accordance with engineering drawings, work orders, and quality specifications. This position plays a critical role in maintaining production throughput, dimensional accuracy, and material utilization while adhering to all safety and quality management system (QMS) requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Minimum 1–2 years of hands-on CNC plasma cutting experience in a manufacturing environment.
Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and material certifications.
Basic math skills including fractions, decimals, and measurement conversions.
Proficiency with common hand measuring tools (calipers, tape measure, combination square).
Ability to safely operate overhead crane and/or forklift (certification preferred or obtainable).

Nice To Haves

Technical/vocational training in welding, machining, or fabrication preferred.
Experience with nesting software (e.g., Hypertherm ProNest, SigmaNEST, or equivalent).
Familiarity with Hypertherm, Lincoln Electric, or ESAB plasma cutting systems.
Prior experience in a defense, aerospace, or ISO 9001-certified manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of metal alloys: mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and high-strength steels.
Familiarity with basic G-code editing and CNC controller interfaces (Burny, Hypertherm Phoenix, or similar).

Responsibilities

Set up and operate CNC plasma cutting table per daily work orders and router packages.
Load and interpret CNC programs (G-code / machine-native formats); make minor program edits as authorized.
Select and install correct consumables (tips, electrodes, shields, swirl rings) per material type and thickness.
Set plasma parameters including amperage, cut speed, pierce delay, and gas pressures.
Nest parts efficiently using CAM/nesting software to maximize material yield and minimize scrap.
Perform test cuts and verify dimensional accuracy prior to full production runs.
Perform in-process inspection using calipers, squares, and tape measures to verify part dimensions.
Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and cut-to-size specifications.
Identify, tag, and segregate nonconforming material; initiate NCR documentation as required.
Maintain first-article documentation and traveler sign-offs per QMS procedures.
Monitor cut quality indicators: dross, bevel angle, kerf width, and surface condition.
Stage raw material (plate, sheet, structural) at the machine using overhead crane, forklift, or manual handling.
Verify material certifications and heat/lot traceability prior to cutting.
Handle, label, and store finished cut parts to prevent damage and maintain part identity.
Return and properly store remnant material; update material inventory as applicable.
Perform daily pre-shift inspections: water table level, rail cleanliness, Z-axis calibration, and consumable condition.
Clean slag, spatter, and water table debris per scheduled PM intervals.
Lubricate drive components and check drive system alignment per OEM maintenance schedule.
Log machine downtime, consumable usage, and maintenance actions in the maintenance log.
Maintain a clean, organized work area in compliance with 5S standards.
Follow all lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures before performing any maintenance or consumable change.
Wear required PPE: safety glasses, face shield, hearing protection, steel-toed footwear, and flame-resistant clothing.
Monitor and maintain proper ventilation/fume extraction during cutting operations.
Report unsafe conditions, near misses, and incidents immediately to supervision.