Apprentice CNC Machine Operator

Aerotek; Cambridge (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Aerotek in Cambridge, MN is seeking an entry-level CNC Machine Operator. No CNC experience required; on-the-job training provided as you load materials, monitor cycles, and help ensure quality.

Starting pay ranges from $20 to $30 per hour depending on interview performance, with a standard first shift (6am–4:30pm) and opportunities for OT. A strong mechanical aptitude and reliable attendance are valued for long-term growth in manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months of manufacturing or mechanical experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and SOPs.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to stand and work in production for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines in a production environment.
• Load materials and monitor production cycles.
• Inspect finished parts with calipers and micrometers.
• Perform visual quality inspections to ensure specs.
• Read and follow production documentation.
• Troubleshoot minor issues and notify supervisors.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Mechanical aptitude

Written instructions

Reliable attendance

Stand for long periods

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

CNC Machine Operator (ENTRY LEVEL - NO CNC EXPERIENCE REQUIRED) $20-$27/hr

Starting Pay/Schedule:

• $20-$30 to start depending interview/experience/tests/shift

• 1 st Shift: 6am-4:30pm M-Th, OT Friday

• 2nd Shift: 4:15pm-2:45am Mon - Thurs, OT Fri in the future

• Weekend Shift: 4:30am-4:30pm F, Sat, Sun

About the Company

Leading manufacturer of drivetrain

components used in electric vehicles, ATVs, automobiles, golf and utility

vehicles, agricultural equipment, construction equipment, turf and garden products,

and snowmobiles. Major customers include Harley-Davidson and other

industry-leading brands. The facility is fully air-conditioned and offers

long-term career growth opportunities in a modern manufacturing environment.

Job Summary

This is an excellent opportunity for

candidates with manufacturing experience, mechanical aptitude, or a strong

desire to learn CNC machining. Operators will load materials into CNC machines,

monitor production processes, inspect parts using precision measuring

instruments, and ensure products meet quality standards. The company values

attitude, work ethic, and willingness to learn just as much as prior CNC

experience. Individuals who demonstrate curiosity, engagement, and interest in

developing CNC skills are highly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines in a production manufacturing environment.

• Load raw materials into machines and monitor production cycles.

• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools.

• Perform visual quality inspections to ensure products meet specifications.

• Read and follow basic work instructions and production documentation.

• Monitor automated equipment, including machines with robotic arms.

• Troubleshoot minor machine issues and notify supervisors of concerns.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

• Handle materials and finished products throughout the manufacturing process.

• Work effectively with team members to meet production and quality goals.

Qualifications Required

• Minimum 6 months of manufacturing experience, machine operation experience, or other mechanically inclined work experience such as construction, automotive, maintenance, or shop-related activities.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.

• Ability to follow written work instructions and standard operating procedures.

• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.

• Ability to stand, move, and work in a production setting for extended periods.

Preferred

• Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, routers, injection molding, extrusion, printing equipment, or other computer-controlled machinery.

• Experience using calipers, micrometers, or other precision measuring tools.

• Previous quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment.

• Knowledge of blueprint reading and basic shop math.

What We're Looking For

• Has a genuine interest in learning CNC machining.

• Demonstrates initiative and asks thoughtful questions.

• Shows enthusiasm during training and interviews.

• Wants to build a long-term manufacturing career.

• Is dependable, coachable, and team-oriented.

Training & Growth Opportunities

• Comprehensive hands-on training provided.

• Clear advancement path into Setup Technician, Lead, Engineering, or Maintenance roles.

• Tuition reimbursement up to $3,000 annually.

• Company-paid training and certification opportunities.

• Significant overtime opportunities available.

Work Environment

• Large, modern manufacturing facility.

• Fully air-conditioned production floor.

• Updated CNC equipment and automated machinery.

• Team-oriented environment focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Hiring Process

Candidates will complete:

• Basic shop math assessment

• Mechanical aptitude testing

• Micrometer and caliper measurements

• Blueprint reading exercises

• In-person interview with production leadership

• Facility tour

Candidates who demonstrate a strong

desire to learn, positive attitude, and engagement throughout the interview

process will stand out, regardless of prior CNC experience.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is

$20.00 - $27.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some

benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of

employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific

elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this

temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision

Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and

Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life &

AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability

Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance

Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Cambridge, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $27.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cambridge,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 13, 2026.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.