CNC Machinist/Programmer

Breight Recruitment; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Breight Recruitment seeks a skilled CNC Machinist to join our manufacturing team. You will set up and operate CNC machines to cut, shape, and form precision metal and plastic parts. Interpreting blueprints, ensuring quality with precision measuring tools, and maintaining safety are key.

Responsibilities include machine setup, tooling selection, first-piece inspection, G-code edits, and routine maintenance. Strong GD&T and material knowledge are highly valued.

Qualifications

• 2–5+ years of CNC Machinist experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient with G-code and M-code and CNC controls (Fanuc/Haas/Mazak/Heidenhain).
• Strong shop math skills including geometry and basic trigonometry.
• Expert in using precision hand tools (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators).
• Familiar with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing symbols.
• Understanding of material behavior for aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and plastics.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC machines (mills, lathes, routers) for precision machining.
• Read and interpret blueprints and specifications to determine dimensions and tooling needs.
• Select tools, fixtures, and load programs; adjust offsets to ensure accuracy.
• Inspect first pieces and in-process parts using calipers, micrometers, and height/dial gauges with tolerances as tight as ±0.0005 inches.
• Make minor edits to G-code/M-code at the controller to optimize cycles or correct deviations.
• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot minor issues, and document logs and inspection data.
• Document production logs and maintenance records accurately.

Skills

G-code/M-code

Metrology tools

GD&T

Shop math

Materials knowledge

Tool setup & offsets

Education

Vocational training

Tools

Fanuc controls

Haas controls

Mazak controls

Heidenhain controls

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented CNC Machinist to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will set up and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut, shape, and form precision metal and plastic parts. You will be responsible for interpreting blueprints, ensuring quality control using precision measuring tools, and maintaining safety standards to ensure efficient production.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Setup & Operation:Set up and operate CNC machines (mills, lathes, and/or routers) to perform precision machining operations.

• Blueprint Reading:Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and engineering specifications to determine dimensions, tolerances, and tooling requirements.

• Tooling & Offsets:Select the correct cutting tools, fixtures, and materials. Load programs, install tooling, and adjust machine offsets/work coordinates to ensure accurate cuts.

• First-Piece & In-Process Inspection:Use precision measuring instruments—including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and bore gauges to inspect parts against blueprints. Maintain tolerances as tight as ±0.0005 inches.

• Editing Programs:Perform minor edits to G-code and M-code programs at the machine controller to optimize cycle times or correct dimensional deviations.

• Maintenance & Troubleshooting:Perform routine daily machine maintenance (checking coolant levels, clearing chips, lubrication). Troubleshoot minor mechanical or programming issues.

• Documentation:Document production logs, inspection data, and maintenance records accurately.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience:2–5+ years of experience as a CNC Machinist in a manufacturing or machine shop environment (or equivalent vocational training).

• Technical Knowledge:Strong understanding of G-code/M-code and CNC controls (e.g., Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Heidenhain).

• Mathematics:Proficient in shop math, including geometry and basic trigonometry, for calculating dimensions and angles.

• Metrology:Expert skill in using precision hand-measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators).

• GD&T:Familiarity with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing symbols and principles.

• Material Awareness:Understanding of how different materials (aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, plastics) behave under different cutting speeds and feed rates.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods (typically an 8 to 10-hour shift).

• Ability to work in a loud industrial environment (hearing and eye protection required).

• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.