CNC Operator 1

AMI Metals; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Reliance, Inc. in Salt Lake City, UT seeks a skilled Kinetic Machine Operator to set up, program, and operate CNC cutting systems (plasma, laser, oxy-fuel) on heavy steel plates.

You will optimize nesting layouts, maximize material yield, and ensure parts meet tight dimensional tolerances while maintaining throughput and scrap control. This role requires strict adherence to safety regulations and quality standards in a fast-paced shop environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with CNC thermal cutting systems and programming.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and nesting diagrams.
• Proficient with calipers, micrometers, and tape measures.
• Strong focus on safety and quality in a high-volume shop.

Responsibilities

• Set up torch heights, gas pressures, cutting speeds, and kerf widths.
• Operate and monitor plasma, laser, and oxy-fuel tables.
• Review BOMs and nesting reports before starting production.
• Inspect finished parts and perform real-time adjustments.

Skills

Technical expertise

Blueprint literacy

Nesting proficiency

Measurement accuracy

Troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Tools

CAD software

Nesting tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Tape measures

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Kinetic Machine Operator to set up, program, and operate CNC thermal cutting systems (including plasma, oxy-fuel, and laser cutting tables) for heavy industrial metal fabrication. The ideal candidate possesses a strong command of plate nesting optimization, material yield calculations, and precision cutting standards to maximize throughput while minimizing scrap. This role requires adherence to strict safety protocols, quality specifications, and production schedules in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

Walk(Move, Traverse), Stand or Sit(Stationary position), Use hand/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position), Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance (Ascend/Descend, Work atop, Traverse), Stoop, kneel, crouch, or Crawl(Position self(to), Move), Talk/hear(Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information), See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess), Pushing or Pulling, Reaching, Repetitive Motion

Function in the Job

Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Job Function

Machine Setup & Operation

• Configure, operate, and monitor CNC kinetic cutting machines (plasma, laser, and oxy-fuel) to process heavy steel plates and structural metals according to engineering drawings and production schedules.
• Set up and adjust torch heights, gas pressures, cutting speeds, and kerf widths based on material type and thickness.
• Perform routine pre-operation inspections, cleaning, and preventative maintenance on machinery, consumables, and torch heads.

Nesting Optimization & Material Efficiency

• Utilize CAD/CAM software and nesting tools to maximize plate utilization, optimize part layouts, and achieve high material yield while reducing commercial scrap.
• Review shop floor drawings, bill of materials (BOM), and nesting reports prior to execution to verify dimensional accuracy and material grades.

Quality Control & Inspection

• Measure finished cut parts using precision measuring tools (calipers, tape measures, gauges) to verify conformance to strict dimensional tolerances.
• Inspect cut edges for dross, bevel accuracy, and surface defects, making real-time machine adjustments as needed.
• Clearly label, sort, and stage cut parts and plate skeletons for secondary processing or shipping.

Safety & Housekeeping

• Adhere strictly to all OSHA standards, plant safety guidelines, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, including eye and ear protection, steel-toed boots, and welding gear.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area around the cutting tables, material staging zones, and scrap bins.

Required Skills

• Technical Expertise: Advanced mechanical aptitude and deep understanding of heavy industrial fabrication principles, thermal cutting dynamics, and metal properties.
• Blueprint & CAD Literacy: Proven ability to read and interpret complex engineering blueprints, CAD drawings, and fabrication nesting diagrams.
• Nesting & Layout Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of plate nesting software, cutting parameters, and yield optimization techniques.
• Measurement Accuracy: Proficiency in using precision measurement instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures.
• Troubleshooting & Problem Solving: Ability to troubleshoot operational errors, gas flow issues, and torch alignment problems quickly to minimize downtime.
• Communication & Teamwork: Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate smoothly with crane operators, supervisors, and internal sales/production teams.

EEO Statement

Reliance, Inc. IS A DRUG-FREE WORK ENVIRONMENT EEO/DISABILITY/VETERAN