CNC Machine Operator Trainee - Night Shift

Accurus Aerospace Corporation; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Accurus Aerospace Corporation in Athens, GA is seeking an entry-level CNC Machine Operator Trainee to learn setup, operation, inspection, and basic troubleshooting of CNC machines under the guidance of experienced operators.

You will set up and operate vertical and horizontal CNC machines, read blueprints, measure parts with calipers and micrometers, and follow strict safety protocols. A 90-day training program with potential full-time placement is offered.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of internal training for Level I–III operators.
• Experience with calipers, micrometers, height gauges preferred.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and shop drawings.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate automated CNC vertical and horizontal machines.
• Interpret blueprints, setup sheets, and instructions.
• Monitor tool wear and adjust feeds/speeds.
• Perform daily checks and report concerns.
• Maintain clean work area and safety procedures.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Math skills

Blueprint reading

Quality inspection

Teamwork

CNC operation

Heavy lifting

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Height gauges

Cranes

Forklifts

Job description

The CNC Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level position designed to provide hands-on training in operating and maintaining CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining centers. The trainee will work closely with experienced operators and supervisors to learn setup, operation, inspection, and basic troubleshooting of CNC machines.

Essential Functions

• Sets up and operates automated CNC Vertical and horizontal machines
• Accurately locates/identifies the X, Y, Z axis on Vertical and Horizontal machines
• Performs daily point checks on assigned machines and reports concerns to supervisor; may initiate maintenance requests if appropriate
• Meets departmental/company goals and objectives promptly (i.e., efficiencies, scrap control, time motion, and setup time reductions)
• Accurately interprets product blueprints, drawings, sketches, setup sheets, and other work instructions
• Uses scales, calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to determine that the part is being machined to the proper specifications
• Removes and replaces dull cutting tools, following designated safety protocol and instructions
• Mounts, installs, aligns, and secures tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments
• Listens to machines during operation to detect irregular sounds (i.e., dull cutting tools or excessive vibration); adjusts machines to compensate for problems and notifies lead or supervisory personnel as appropriate
• Adjusts machine feed and speed, changes cutting tools, or adjusts machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction
• Stops machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement according to required machining sequences
• Lifts workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes
• Enters command instructions into the machine control units to start operation
• Monitors and adjusts/controls coolant systems as needed
• Transfers commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links
• Sets up future jobs, performs inspections or part checks, cleans the work area, or performs other duties while the machines are operating
• May deburr machined parts as required for work in process
• Follows all safety policies and procedures; consistently utilizes all required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Communicates verbally (English) and follows verbal and written instructions
• Performs other tasks and/or assignments as required
• Regular attendance on-site at the workplace is required

Required Education And Work Experience

• High School diploma or GED equivalent is required

Other Required Skills And Abilities

• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
• Demonstrated basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide, fraction conversions)
• A history of consistent employment without unexplained or significant gaps or frequent job changes is expected
• Completion of assigned internal training for Level I , II , or III Operators, and periodic retraining or recertification is required
• Experience using mics, calipers, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment is preferred
• Experience reading & accurately interpreting shop blueprints, sketches, and other technical information/instructions is preferred
• Experience using cranes, forklifts, and similar heavy & oversized material handling equipment is preferred

Training and Advancement

• This position is part of a structured training program lasting approximately 90 days, conducted on day shift, Monday through Friday
• Upon successful completion, the trainee will be assigned to a CNC Machine Operator Level I, Level II, or Level III based on skills, performance, and company needs
• Full-time assignments after training may be scheduled on day, night, or weekend shifts

Role

To perform the essential functions of the role, employees must be able to perform the following activities with or without reasonable accommodations:

• Regularly stand and walk throughout the facility, stand for long periods to perform job duties
• Regularly lift, carry (short distances), and push/pull up to 100 pounds using peer assistance and/or other lifting & material-handling equipment
• Occasionally reaches overhead and reaches out or down to perform duties
• Frequently climb steps, stairs, or ladders
• Occasionally bend, crawl, stoop, squat, or kneel
• Frequently uses hand or fingers to manually inspect parts, tighten hardware & fixtures, and operate machine and material handling controls
• Accurately distinguish colors to respond to sensors, indicators, and color-variable dashboards
• Visual acuity to interpret readings on gauges and other measuring devices

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a manufacturing shop environment where working conditions may vary significantly; the employee will be exposed to:

• Excessive noise (hearing protection required)
• Dust, smoke, mist, fumes/vapors (regularly)
• Extreme temperatures (occasionally)
• Hazardous equipment including forklifts, hand tools, cranes or other lifting devices, and other equipment used in a machine shop environment (continually)

Accurus offers a comprehensive employee benefit package upon completion of 30 days of employment. For full details, please visit the benefits section of our website.

Accurus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affinitive Action Plan (AAP) employer and participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program. Please see our website for more information on employment practices.

Please note that Accurus only accepts applications submitted through our online recruiting system. For information on disability accommodations for applicants, please visit our career page.

All job offers are contingent upon successfully completing a drug screen and criminal background screening. Certain positions may require a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), a credit report, and/or a medical physical examination.

Thank you for considering Accurus for your next career opportunity.