CNC operator

Some of the tasks to expect in a CNC operator position include those listed below.

• setting up and managing CNC machines

As a CNC operator, you have responsibility for setting up CNC machines for milling, drilling, or grinding. You input the tooling instructions from the datasheets based on the instructions provided. You also feed the machines with raw materials and monitor the machining process. CNC operators oversee the machining progress and make adjustments like changing tools or repositioning the workpiece.

• performing the finishing operations

When the machining process ends, you remove the workpiece from the machine and perform the necessary finishing procedures to improve its quality. For instance, you remove the swarf and confirm if the finished piece meets the required specifications. You also perform quality control checks on the final workpiece.

• measuring and recording the workpieces

As a CNC operator, you document the machining process and record various stages of production. Writing the measurements and defects or issues detected during production helps the professionals who are next in line to improve the quality of the workpiece.

• conducting maintenance tasks

You'll be responsible for the CNC machines used in machining. Your requirement is to carry out maintenance tasks to keep them in good shape. You complete minor maintenance tasks like replacing worn machine tools and lubricating mechanical components.

• maintaining health and safety standards on all procedures

Your job involves maintaining the health and safety standards of the work environment. It is important to ensure the work floors are clean and tidy and to manage waste disposal.

While your job includes a lot of different tasks, your standard day is straightforward. Your work environment is primarily factory-based since the job is mainly to operate and oversee workers on machine operations. The work environment can be noisy and hazardous. Therefore, you require protective clothing like safety shoes, gloves, and earplugs. You also spend the day standing and lifting heavy loads.

In some cases, you work outside when fetching materials. You might also do office-related tasks like keeping records and updating inventory on an office computer. There is minimal traveling since you perform all tasks from one manufacturing environment. You need to be physically present to offer your services, so this isn't a career where you can work remotely.

Whether you work in metal or manufacturing industries, your colleagues might include industrial designers, CNC machinists, and CNC turners along with CNC millers and CNC technicians. You may also work with factory managers and machine operators during the typical workday. On some projects, you'll spend time with other specialists, such as mechanical maintenance engineers, production managers, and welders.

If you like stable, reliable workdays with a predictable schedule, this is the job for you. A CNC operator typically works a 40-hour week. However, during peak production times, you have opportunities to work additional hours. Usually, you work on a set schedule, but this might include morning shifts, mid-shifts, and night shifts. Some CNC operators work weekend shifts with overtime pay. There are also companies with longer work weeks of 50 hours because demand for CNC operators is much higher than the supply of trained workers. When needed, a CNC operator can also work on a flexible schedule to ensure the demands of busy production days are met.

In general, the job outlook for CNC operators is stable. BLS data reports job growth rates of 5% over the next decade. This job growth rate is slightly smaller than some other fields, but it shows the field is still expanding. There will be new jobs opening up that give you exciting workplace opportunities. New technological advancements frequently change the field, so those who stay up-to-date on industry trends will have the most job options. The career path of a CNC operator offers many opportunities for promotions. For example, you may become a CNC programmer or a managing supervisor if qualified. CNC operators can easily climb the corporate ladder, especially in more in-demand industries.

Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:

• being paid weekly
• flexibility
• always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
• many training opportunities
• a range of jobs in your area

Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a CNC operator is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!

The salary is very promising when you consider the fact that most CNC operator jobs do not require education past high school. Though a trade school education or college degree will help you get higher-paying jobs, you only need your high school diploma or a GED.

Many companies are even willing to take on CNC operators without any experience. In some cases, you can get all the training you need from your current employer. However, for higher-level jobs, you might need to already know how to work with certain machines or software. Some jobs look for people who already know how to work with computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and computer-aided design (CAD). Past experience with certain popular brands of machines is also desirable. You can get this experience at entry-level jobs, or you can get certified through courses such as Haas.

As a CNC operator, you require the following skills and qualities:

• the ability to use computer-aided manufacturing to measure dimensions, set parameters, and check for quality controls while staying on top of the latest software
• engineering skills to operate, maintain/clean, and calibrate machines and other tools
• problem-solving and adaptive skills to resolve quality issues, errors in drawings, and problems with tools
• the ability to read technical drawings and blueprints to create machines and workpieces according to the expected specifications
• memory skills to keep up with workplace safety procedures and other industry-standard guidelines
• communication skills to interact with other members of your team and meet production deadlines
• close attention to detail which ensures you are able to closely follow all instructions and create items as precisely as possible
• the physical ability to lift heavy loads of equipment or unload various finished products

Though being a CNC operator might sound high-tech, it doesn't necessarily mean you need to study math for years. This job is more hands-on and less analytical. As long as you understand basic concepts like addition and subtraction, it's more important to have strong logical and mechanical skills.

CNC stands for computer numerical control, but what does this term really mean? CNC refers to a manufacturing method that uses computers and software to control machinery. These CNC machines then cut, shape, and finish raw materials into products.

Though rare, it is possible to make a salary of more than $100,000. If you want to make roughly double the salary of the standard CNC operator, you need a lot of experience and skills. These highly paid operators often work with very complex equipment and in physically demanding environments.

This career is ideal for those with a lot of stamina and patience. Expect to spend a lot of time on your feet or moving heavy equipment and be prepared to manage complex machinery.

The most effective career route is often to start at a trade school where you can learn all the details of the job. However, there are also a lot of chances to learn on the job. Some entry-level jobs will give you the training you need to later move into CNC roles with more responsibility.

Applying for a CNC operator job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our CNC operator jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state-of-the-art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!