CNC MACHINE OPERATOR

Phoenix Defense LLC; Gilbert, Northern (AZ, KY); Hybrid; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Phoenix Defense LLC is seeking a skilled CNC Machine Operator to safely run a dedicated CNC cell. The role focuses on aerospace components, strict adherence to print specs, and high-volume production in a fast-paced setting.

You will load/unload parts across multiple machines, perform in-process inspection with precision tools, and monitor tool wear. This role requires strict quality control, detailed work instructions, and support for 5S standards in the cell.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 2–5 years of experience operating CNC machines in a production environment (lathe and/or mill).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and follow detailed work instructions.
• Experience performing in-process inspection using calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Familiarity with tool wear, insert replacement, and basic offset adjustments.
• Ability to operate multiple machines simultaneously in a production environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Ability to identify issues and escalating process, tooling, or quality concerns appropriately.

Responsibilities

• Operate a CNC machining cell consisting of pre-set CNC lathes and mills.
• Load and unload aerospace components across multiple machines in a fast-paced environment.
• Perform in-process dimensional inspection using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators, gauges).
• Monitor tool wear and replace cutting tools/inserts as needed, within defined guidelines.
• Maintain consistent part flow and escalating machine, quality, or tooling issues to engineering/programming.
• Support cell uptime, organization, and 5S standards.
• Follow detailed work instructions, inspection plans, and quality documentation requirements.
• Ensure parts meet print specifications prior to release to next operation.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and internal procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Skills

Reading drawings

Precision measurement

Quality inspection

Attention to detail

Multi-machine operation

Issue escalation

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Fanuc controls

Siemens Sinumerik

Job description

The CNC Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating a dedicated CNC machining cell to produce aerospace components that meet print and quality requirements in a fast-paced production environment.

The CNC Machine Operator sets up and runs a CNC machining cell consisting of pre-set lathes and mills to manufacture aerospace components in a high-volume production environment. This role loads and unloads parts across multiple machines, performs in-process dimensional inspections using precision measuring tools, and monitors tool wear to replace inserts and cutting tools within defined guidelines. The operator is accountable for maintaining consistent part flow, supporting cell uptime and 5S standards, and escalating machine, quality, or tooling issues to engineering or programming as needed. The CNC Machine Operator follows detailed work instructions, inspection plans, and quality documentation to ensure all parts meet print specifications and adhere to internal quality standards prior to release to the next operation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate a CNC machining cell consisting of pre-set CNC lathes and mills
• Load and unload aerospace components across multiple machines in a fast-paced environment
• Perform in-process dimensional inspection using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators, gauges)
• Monitor tool wear and replace cutting tools/inserts as needed, within defined guidelines
• Maintain consistent part flow and escalating machine, quality, or tooling issues to engineering/programming
• Support cell uptime, organization, and 5S standards
• Follow detailed work instructions, inspection plans, and quality documentation requirements
• Ensure parts meet print specifications prior to release to next operation
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and internal procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED
• 2–5 years of experience operating CNC machines in a production environment (lathe and/or mill)
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and follow detailed work instructions
• Experience performing in-process inspection using calipers, micrometers, and gauges
• Familiarity with tool wear, insert replacement, and basic offset adjustments
• Ability to operate multiple machines simultaneously in a production environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards
• Ability to identify issues and escalating process, tooling, or quality concerns appropriately

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in an AS9100 or aerospace manufacturing environment
• Exposure to tight-tolerance machining (<±0.002”)
• Experience working with stainless steel, titanium, or high-temperature alloys
• Basic familiarity with CNC controls (Fanuc, Siemens Sinumerik)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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