CNC Operator

John W McDougall Co, Inc; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in metal and facade solutions is seeking a skilled AXYZ Router Operator to join their production team. The role demands expertise in CNC router operation, strong attention to quality, and the ability to maintain a clean work environment. Applicants will thrive in a supportive, family-owned business culture that prioritizes safety and efficiency.

Benefits

Medical, Vision, and Dental

Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability

401k with company match up to 4%

PTO

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC routers or similar machinery preferred.
• Ability to read and follow technical drawings and job sketches.
• Physical ability to lift materials and stand for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC routers to cut materials accurately and uphold quality standards.
• Conduct pre-operation checks and maintain a clean work environment.
• Complete daily production sheets and assist with material management.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Time-management

Ability to lift materials

Tools

CNC routers

Job description

At John W. McDougall, we are more than just a leader in metal and facade solutions—we are a third-generation, family-owned business driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and a passion for transforming vision into reality. With a legacy of delivering iconic projects, we take pride in exceeding customer expectations while fostering an environment where our people thrive.

About the Role
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented AXYZ Router Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for operating CNC routers to cut materials accurately while maintaining high-quality standards and a clean work environment. The ideal candidate will have experience in CNC operation, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict production procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Operation Checks:

• Verify material color, skid tags, printed markings, and paperwork for accuracy.
• Inspect material for dents and scratches before processing.
• Ensure proper router setup, including cutter selection, router depth, and gantry alignment.
• Establish precise cut lines and position material correctly on the table.

During Operation:

• Organize and prepare sketches for upcoming jobs.
• Verify sketch quantities and make copies if needed.
• Monitor drill holes and routed lines, adjusting depth as necessary.
• Maintain a clean work area—phone use is not permitted during active operations.
• Label each panel with job information and attach sketches before it leaves the table (unless otherwise directed by the department lead).

Post-Operation Tasks:

• Remove completed panels from the router table.
• Blow off and clean debris from the table, ensuring all cracks are clear.
• Reload material onto the table and restart the process.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Stack drop materials neatly on skids, keeping them level and free of debris.
• Organize trash skids to be stacked neatly in the designated area.
• Update material count on skids upon job completion.
• Cover and securely band remaining material and drop skids for forklift removal.
• Empty all trash cans into the hopper daily or as needed.
• Empty chip collection barrels daily to maintain a clean environment.
• Sweep the floor and remove all trash at the end of each shift.

Third Person/Middleman Responsibilities:

• Assist the operator in clearing and reloading the router table.
• Maintain cleanliness in all work areas—phone use is not permitted.
• Help sort sketches and table layout sheets for efficiency.
• Take charge of the table when the operator steps away.
• Assist with trash removal and chip barrel disposal.

Production Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and legible daily production sheets.
• Submit completed production sheets to the department lead before cleaning up (10 minutes before the end of shift).

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience operating CNC routers or similar machinery preferred.
• Ability to read and follow technical drawings and job sketches.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality control.
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Physical ability to lift materials, stand for long periods, and perform manual labor.
• Medical, Vision, and Dental
• Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability
• Voluntary Short Term and Life Insurance Policies offered
• 401k with company match up to 4%
• Company sponsored Employee Assistance Program
• PTO

Drug-Free Workplace

We provide and require a drug-free workplace. All new hires will be subject to a pre-employment drug screening as well as randomly selected drug screenings for the duration of employment with our company.

If you are a dependable and motivated individual with CNC experience, we encourage you to apply and become part of our team!