CADREX - CNC Machinist (All Levels - 1st and 2nd Shift)

Cadrex; Agawam (MA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Cadrex is seeking a CNC Machinist across Level I–III to operate, set up, and optimize CNC machines for precision parts in Agawam, MA. The role emphasizes safety, quality, and on-time production within a collaborative environment.

Candidates will be aligned to Level I, II, or III based on experience, with levels covering setup, tool changes, and programming enhancements. Competitive hourly pay and a fast-paced manufacturing setting are offered.

Qualifications

• Level I requires about 1 year of CNC machining experience.
• Level II requires 2+ years and independent setup experience.
• Level III requires 3+ years and complex setups.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines according to specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints and work instructions.
• Perform quality inspections with calipers, micrometers, gauges.
• Monitor machine performance and document results.
• Maintain clean, safe work area and report issues.
• Collaborate with teams to meet production goals.

Skills

CNC machining

Blueprint interpretation

Quality inspection

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or technical certification

Preferred 2-year technical degree

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

G-code basics

Job description

Description Overview

Cadrex is searching for a CNC Machinist (Level I, II, or III) to operate, set up, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines used to produce precision components according to engineering specifications. We are hiring CNC Machinists across multiple experience levels. Candidates will be aligned to Level I, II, or III based on experience, technical knowledge, and skill set. This role plays a critical part in ensuring quality, efficiency, and on‑time production while supporting a safe and collaborative manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities (All Levels)

• Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work area
• Operate CNC machines to produce high‑quality components according to specifications
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work instructions
• Perform quality inspections using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges, etc.)
• Monitor machine performance and verify part conformance throughout production runs
• Complete production records, machine logs, and quality documentation accurately and timely
• Perform tool changes and basic machine adjustments as required
• Identify and report machine malfunctions, quality concerns, or safety issues
• Collaborate with production teams, engineers, and supervisors to meet production goals
• Demonstrate dependability, strong attendance, and the ability to work in a fast‑paced environment

Key Responsibilities (Level I - Entry Level)

• Operate CNC machines that have already been set up and approved for production
• Load materials and monitor machine cycles to ensure parts are produced to specification
• Perform basic quality inspections using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring tools
• Follow established work instructions and production requirements
• Perform basic machine maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication
• Identify and report machine, tooling, or quality concerns to supervisors
• Learn CNC machining processes, tooling, and blueprint interpretation
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, quality, and productivity

Key Responsibilities (Level II - Intermediate)

• Independently set up CNC machines for production runs
• Perform tool changes, offsets, and machine adjustments to maintain part quality and efficiency
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and quality issues and implement corrective actions
• Monitor machining processes and make real‑time adjustments as needed
• Perform in‑process inspections and verify conformance to specifications
• Conduct routine and preventive maintenance activities
• Maintain production flow while meeting quality and productivity standards
• Work independently with minimal supervision while supporting team objectives

Key Responsibilities (Level III - Advanced)

• Perform complex machine setups across multiple CNC machine platforms
• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot CNC programs using G‑code and CAM software
• Optimize machining processes to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, and maximize quality
• Troubleshoot advanced machining, programming, tooling, and equipment issues
• Operate and support multiple machine platforms, including mills, VTLs, Swiss machines, and other CNC equipment
• Manage tooling strategies, offsets, and tool life monitoring to ensure consistent production performance
• Partner with engineering and production teams to improve manufacturing processes
• Mentor and train less experienced machinists on setup, troubleshooting, and best machining practices
• Serve as a technical resource for complex production and process improvement initiatives

Qualifications (Level I - Entry Level)

• 1 year of CNC machining experience, strongly preferred
• Ability to operate CNC machines that have been set up for production
• Basic understanding of machine operation and manufacturing processes
• Ability to use measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges
• Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints and work instructions
• Basic computer skills
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
• Demonstrated dependability and strong attendance

Qualifications (Level II - Intermediate)

• 2+ years of CNC machining experience
• Experience independently setting up CNC machines
• Experience performing tool changes and offset adjustments
• Ability to troubleshoot machining, tooling, and quality issues
• Strong blueprint reading and interpretation skills
• Proficiency with precision measuring equipment
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
• Experience maintaining production quality and throughput standards

Qualifications (Level III - Advanced)

• 3+ years of CNC machining experience with complex machining operations
• Strong machine setup experience across multiple CNC machine platforms
• Experience with mills, VTLs, Swiss machines, and/or other CNC equipment
• Basic CNC programming capability, including G‑code editing and troubleshooting
• Advanced troubleshooting skills for machining, tooling, and equipment issues
• Strong understanding of tooling strategies, offsets, and process optimization
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and engineering specifications
• Experience improving machining processes, cycle times, and overall efficiency
• Strong communication skills with the ability to train and mentor other machinists
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Education

• Highschool Diploma 2-year technical certification or equivalent experience, preferred

Location

• Onsite; Agawam, MA

Schedule

• Full time; 1st and 2nd Shift Availability

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to the risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally loud

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, use hands and fingers, handle or feel, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus

CADREX's Core Values

Safety first, rising to the challenge, collaboration, accountability, and doing the right thing.

About Us

CADREX Manufacturing Solutions is a leading provider of complex sheet metal and machined production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including electrical transmission and distribution, warehouse automation, technology, aerospace & defense, medical, food, and industrials. With locations in Colorado, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, and Monterrey Mexico, CADREX offers numerous in‑house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, forming, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights‑out manufacturing capabilities for mid- to high-volume production.

Cadrex provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Salary Description

Salary Description$24-$45/hour

• Level I - Entry Level: $24 - $29/hour
• Level II - Intermediate: $29 - $34/hour
• Level III - Advanced: $34 - $45/hour

Notice of AI Use in Job Application Review

As part of our commitment in creating a fair, efficient, and consistent hiring process we may use artificial intelligence (AI) to help our recruiting teams organize, summarize, and analyze information provided by candidates, including resumes, application responses, and other materials submitted during the application process. AI may be used to identify patterns, highlight relevant skills, and experience, and assist in comparing a candidate's qualifications with the requirement of a specific role. These tools are to improve efficiency and consistency while supporting more informed hiring decisions, which will ultimately be made by the hiring team.