CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift - $3000 sign on bonus!

Plank Enterprises, Inc.; Eau Claire (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Plank Enterprises, Inc. in Eau Claire, WI is seeking an entry-level Machinist (Level 1) to operate CNC lathes/mills and basic manual machines, following established setups and work instructions. You will perform basic offsets, in-process checks, record data, and help ensure parts meet print, quality, and safety requirements.

You will load/unload parts, interpret simple blueprints, and measure using calipers and gauges, while maintaining a clean, safe work area and adhering to ISO standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical machining coursework, apprenticeship, or certificate preferred.
• Prior machining experience helpful but not required; on-the-job training provided.
• Forklift/crane experience plus; certification provided if needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC lathes and mills and basic manual machines following setups and work instructions.
• Make minor program or offset adjustments under supervision to maintain part quality.
• Load/unload parts, change basic tooling inserts, and perform routine machine warm-ups and checks.
• Read and interpret basic blueprints and drawings (support provided for complex prints).
• Measure parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges and indicators.
• Perform in-process checks and document results accurately.
• Record labor, work order data, and inspection results as required.
• Follow ISO procedures and safety policies and PPE requirements.
• Maintain a clean, hazard-free work area and report issues promptly.
• Move materials and parts safely using forklifts/cranes (training provided).
• Communicate issues promptly to leads or supervisors.

Skills

GD&T familiarity

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Team player

Learning mindset

Education

High school diploma or GED

Machining coursework (preferred)

On-the-job training provided

Tools

G-code

M-code

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Summary

The Machinist (Level 1) operates basic machining equipment (CNC and manual) to produce parts that meet print, quality, and safety requirements. This entry‑level role focuses on machine operation, basic offsets/adjustments under guidance, in‑process inspection, material handling, and accurate documentation. Works collaboratively with teammates to meet schedule, quality, and productivity goals in a fast‑paced environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate CNC lathes and/or mills and/or basic manual machines (e.g., drill press, Bridgeport, surface grinder) following established setups and work instructions.
• Make minor program or offset adjustments under supervision to maintain part quality.
• Load/unload parts, change basic tooling inserts, and conduct routine machine warm‑ups and checks.
• Read and interpret basic blueprints and manufacturing drawings (support provided for more complex prints).
• Measure parts using calipers, micrometers, Go/No‑Go gauges, height gauges, and indicators.
• Perform in‑process checks and document results accurately.
• Record labor, work order data, and inspection results as required.
• Follow ISO procedures and quality standards.
• Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and machine safety practices.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and hazard‑free work area.
• Report unsafe conditions, malfunctioning equipment, or quality concerns promptly.
• Safely move material and parts; operate forklifts, jib/overhead cranes, and other lifting devices (training/certification provided if needed).
• Move raw material, finished parts, tooling, and fixtures as needed
• Communicate issues (quality, machine, material, documentation) promptly to leads or supervisors.
• Support basic problem‑solving and support process and quality improvement activities.
• Participate in training and skill‑development activities to advance machining proficiency.
• Demonstrate reliable attendance and a learning mindset, complete assigned training and skill development.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support department and company objectives.
• Note: Complex setups, advanced troubleshooting, multi‑axis programming, and process optimization are typically performed by Level 2/3 Machinists or the Machining Lead.

Skills and Qualifications

• Basic ability to read blueprints and follow work instructions (GD&T familiarity is a plus). Competent with precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, indicators, Go/No‑Go gauges).
• Basic shop math (fractions/decimals, conversions); ability to learn speeds/feeds and tooling fundamentals.
• Computer literacy for data entry and viewing work instructions/prints.
• Strong attention to detail, quality focus, and accountability.
• Effective communicator; works well independently and within a team.
• Willingness to learn, take feedback, and develop toward higher‑level machinist responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical coursework, apprenticeship, or certificate in machining preferred.
• Prior machining experience helpful but not required; on‑the‑job training provided.
• Forklift/crane experience plus; certification will be provided if needed.

Physical Demands

• Regularly stand, walk, reach, handle tools/parts, and communicate.
• Frequently bend, stoop, or kneel; lift and/or move up to 40 lbs.
• Visual acuity required: close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Mental Demands

• Maintain focus and accuracy in a fast‑paced, schedule‑driven environment.
• Apply basic problem‑solving to routine issues; elevate complex problems promptly.
• Balance short‑term task completion with adherence to long‑term quality standards and procedures.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor with exposure to moving mechanical parts, cutting fluids, and airborne particles.
• Noise levels range from moderate to loud; PPE required per area standards.
• May rotate between machines, shifts, or cells based on production needs.

You Should Be Proficient In

• GD&T
• Troubleshooting Skills
• G-Code
• Tape Measure Reading
• M-Code
• CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
• Precision Measurement & Hand Metrology
• Advanced Inspection & Gauge Measurement
• Machine Geometry & Alignment
• Machine Setups for Production Runs
• Troubleshooting CNC Machines

Machines & Technologies You'll Use

• Horizontal Machining Center (3-4 axis) (Haas, Okuma, Doosan, Makino, Niigata)
• Horizontal Machining Center (5+ axis)