Machine Operator / Sr. Machine Operator

ST Engineering North America•Baltimore, MD

1d•$22 - $25

About The Position

The Machine Operator / Senior Machine Operator sets up, operates, and oversees computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines, following safety procedures and quality requirements. The position may be filled at either level depending on the candidate’s work experience. Operators work from manufacturing process plans, manuscripts, NC setup documents, tool orders, drawings, sketches, fixture diagrams, and related instructions, confirming that current revisions are being used and retrieving work instructions from a Windows-based computer. Responsibilities include loading fixtures and cutting tools, setting and presetting tools to specified torque values, configuring machine coordinate systems and fixture offsets, verifying tooling and NC programs, and inspecting initial and subsequent workpieces for conformance. Operators document production and quality activity, monitor machine and tool conditions, communicate status and issues across shifts, and maintain equipment and a clean, safe work area. The role uses large five-axis gantry milling machines, multi-axis drilling machines, tool preset machines, cranes, hoists, and material-handling equipment. Work may require walking onto machine tables to secure parts and fixtures. The entry-level Machine Operator requires at least two years of relevant experience or a trade school certificate. The Senior Machine Operator requires three to four years of relevant experience and/or a trade school certificate, including two years in a CNC Machine Operator role. The role offers hourly pay of $22.00–$25.00, with compensation determined by factors including skills, experience, education, job level, and work location. Employment is contingent on satisfactory background and drug screening results.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
For Machine Operator: at least two years of relevant experience or a trade school certificate.
For Senior Machine Operator: three to four years of relevant experience and/or a trade school certificate, including two years in a CNC Machine Operator role.
Basic math skills for setting fixture offsets and calculating tolerances.
Ability to read sketches, drawings, and specifications.
Familiarity with precision measuring instruments, including calipers, height gauges, vernier calipers, inside, outside, and depth micrometers, and dial indicators.
Working knowledge of basic G and M codes.
Ability to follow safety procedures and meet quality requirements.

Nice To Haves

At least two years in a CNC Machine Operator role for the Machine Operator level.
Working knowledge of methods and techniques used in machine operations and in setting up and operating NC machines.
Ability to remain physically mobile and walk, stand, and function on machine tables and stairs consistently.
Ability to use email, radio, or company messenger to communicate issues, concerns, and other information needed to complete jobs.
Ability to work in shop conditions that may include dirt, fumes, excessive cold or heat, and noise.
Ability to obtain and maintain Crane/Hoist Certification.
Knowledge of multi-axis machine movement.
Ability to operate manual milling and turning equipment.
Understanding of tolerances and GD&T dimensions.
Ability to train and guide less experienced employees on CNC controllers, manufacturing processes, and machines.

Responsibilities

Read and evaluate manufacturing process plans, manuscripts, NC setup documents, tool orders, drawings, sketches, fixture diagrams, and related instructions; confirm that current revisions are incorporated.
Retrieve correct work instructions from a Windows-based computer.
Load fixtures, cutting tools, and cutting-tool holders for the job being set up.
Set up machines and load and preset cutting tools to the required torque values.
Inspect and safely clean critical interface areas before loading fixtures or parts.
Set machine local coordinate systems and verify fixture offsets, tooling, and NC programs before operating.
Check initial workpieces and subsequent production parts for conformance to dimensions and specifications.
Operate CNC machines safely, including interpreting XYZ-axis movements and jogging machines with a pendant or control while avoiding collisions.
Document actions by completing production and quality logs.
Communicate machine condition, process status, perishable-tool life, and fixture condition to the next shift, support staff, and supervisors.
Monitor preventive maintenance requirements, troubleshoot malfunctions, follow manufacturer instructions, and alert the team when repairs may be needed.
Maintain the assigned work area in a clean, safe, and orderly condition.
Use cranes, hoists, and material-handling equipment such as forklifts, tow motors, hand trucks, dollies, and A-frames as required.
Set up and operate large five-axis gantry milling machines, multi-axis and multi-spindle drilling machines, and tool preset machines.
Perform work on machines with hoists and cranes as required, and walk onto machine tables to secure parts and fixtures.
At the senior level, train and guide less experienced employees on CNC controllers, manufacturing processes, and machines.