CNC Machine Operator

TAG Manufacturing Inc; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

TAG Manufacturing Inc. in Chattanooga, TN is seeking a Machine Operator to set up and run CNC lathes and mills, producing machined components to blueprints.

The role requires reading drawings, understanding G/M code basics, metrology tools, and maintaining a safe, organized work area with 5S practices.

Candidates should have basic CNC knowledge and willingness to learn; the team collaborates across departments to meet production schedules.

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced shop environment.
• Basic mathematical skills and understanding of machining principles.
• Basic understanding of CNC and G/M codes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings/blueprints.
• Familiarity with metrology tools (calipers, micrometers).
• Ability to identify cutting tools and work safely with PPE.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC lathes and mills safely and efficiently.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Maintain clean, organized work area using 5S principles.
• Record daily timekeeping and support production scheduling.
• Support continuous improvement activities and best practices.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Maintenance, and Production teams.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Mathematical skills

CNC machining basics

G/M code basics

Read drawings/blueprints

Metrology tools handling

Tool identification

PPE and safety adherence

Team communication

Tools

Haas CNC

Mazak CNC

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Company OverviewSince 2005, TAG Manufacturing has led the industry in durable, quality, reliable attachments for excavators, backhoes, wheel loaders and other heavy construction equipment. We serve dealers, rental companies, and OEMs across the nation with a full range of buckets and attachments to match the toughest jobs and applications. Designed and manufactured at our headquarters in Chattanooga, TN; TAG buckets, thumbs, couplers, and other attachments are adaptable to any brand of excavator or construction equipment.Job OverviewThe Machine Operator position is responsible for the safe operation and participation of detailed set up on CNC lathes and mills. This position will be responsible for producing machined components efficiently while maintaining quality requirements per blueprint and customer specifications. The position will require the ability to run multiple machines at once, as well as the ability to learn, understand, and use metrology tools and methods including micrometers and calipers, with high emphasis on productivity and quality expectations. This position will work closely with shop leadership focused on providing quality components in a safe, productive, and efficient manner while adhering to production schedules and work schedules.Key Duties and ResponsibilitiesSafe Operation and use of CNC Machinery, Tools, Cranes, and Lifting Devices.Maintain clean and organized work area using Effective 5S and Housekeeping Principles.Participate in the Set Up and Operation of CNC Machinery including Haas and Mazak Lathes and Mills.Read and interpret Engineering Drawing/BlueprintsMust Maintain Quality Expectations and Inspection CriteriaMaintain Accurate Daily Time Keeping RecordsParticipate in and support Continuous Improvement ActivitiesMaintain and support manufacturing and machining “Best Practices and Standards.”Interact directly with other depts. across the TAG organization to include Engineering, Maintenance, Manufacturing Engineering, Production Leadership, Sales, etc.Act ethically and professionally at all times.Fulfill all other duties assigned by the Operations Manager and/or Team Lead.Qualifications / RequirementsThe requirements listed below are not all inclusive but rather are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required in the position.REQUIREDStrong willingness and desire to learn.Good mathematical skills.Basic understanding of CNC and/or Manual Machining Principles.Basic understanding of CNC G/M Code.Basic understanding or ability to identify cutting tools.Basic understanding and/or interpretation of Engineering Drawings / Blue Prints.Participate in Pre-Planning Jobs, including gathering the necessary tooling and fixturing necessary to run a job to completion.Ability to identify and use basic hand tools.Ability and willingness to work Safely and maintain PPE Standards at all times.Ability to identify Potential Workplace Hazards.Strong work ethic and the willingness to work effectively with minimal supervision in a team environment.Ability to effectively communicate with Team Leads and Management.Ability and desire to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.Ability to adapt to changing work situations and instructions.Strong ethical standards, reliability, professionalism, positive attitude, and ability to remain calm in stressful situations.Must be willing and able to maintain a Clean and Well-Organized work area, leaving your area cleaner than you found it daily.PREFERRED1+ Years Experience in the Operation of CNC Machinery.1+ Years Experience in CNC Programming and/or ability to interpret G/M-Code.1+ Year Experience in the use of Metrology Tools (Calipers, Micrometers).Through understanding or ability to identify a variety of cutting tools.Possess a thorough understanding of Machining Principles and Best Practices.Basic knowledge of cutting conditions and ability to make proper adjustments when necessary.Thorough understanding and the ability to read and interpret Engineering Drawings / Blueprints.Core CompetenciesAccountability: Maintain schedule and attendance requirements and meet daily work expectations. Take responsibility for daily work performance.Analytical Thinking: Analyze products, processes, and systems by thoroughly understanding existing factors, comparing alternatives, identifying inconsistencies, determining root causes, assessing risks, and recommending logical solutions.Attitude: Exhibit the willingness to learn, remain flexible and optimistic, and demonstrate a “can do” mindset.Commitment: Value company standards and demand commitment to the highest of standards from self and others regarding work environment, safety, and company initiatives.Communication: Listen attentively, ask questions or rephrase communication to ensure mutual understanding, and take necessary action. Utilize effective oral and written communication skills to share information with others, consistently communicate product or project updates, provide constructive feedback, encourage team member support, and propose solutions.Integrity: Maintain honesty, behave ethically, take responsibility, respect confidentiality, and demonstrate reliability with other team members, other departments, management teams, customers, and business partners.Teamwork: Demonstrate the ability and desire to cooperatively interact with other team members by listening to team ideas, treating others with respect, providing constructive feedback, sharing expertise, and contributing to team initiatives.Working Conditions and Physical RequirementsMust be able to stand, walk, bend, climb, sit, crouch, and kneel for moderate to extended periods of timeMust be able to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds on a regular basisMust be able to work in an environment that is heavily affected by seasonal temperature changesTAG Manufacturing Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.