CNC Operator (Entry Level)

Aerotek; Cambridge (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Training opportunities

Modern facility

Air-conditioned floor

Job summary

Aerotek in Cambridge, MN is seeking an entry-level CNC Machine Operator to begin a hands-on manufacturing career without prior CNC experience. The role focuses on loading materials, monitoring cycles, and ensuring quality through simple inspections.

Training is provided, with a clear path into Setup Technician, Lead, Engineering, or Maintenance roles. The position offers a fully onsite work environment with a modern facility and a strong emphasis on safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months of manufacturing experience, machine operation experience, or related mechanically inclined work experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to follow written work instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to stand, move, and work in a production setting for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines in a production manufacturing environment.
• Load raw materials into machines and monitor production cycles.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools.
• Perform visual quality inspections to ensure products meet specifications.
• Read and follow basic work instructions and production documentation.
• Monitor automated equipment, including machines with robotic arms.
• Troubleshoot minor machine issues and notify supervisors of concerns.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Handle materials and finished products throughout the manufacturing process.
• Work effectively with team members to meet production and quality goals.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Reliable attendance

Willing to learn

Team player

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Blueprint reading

Shop math

Job description

CNC Machine Operator (ENTRY LEVEL - NO CNC EXPERIENCE REQUIRED) $20-$27/hr

Starting Pay/Schedule:

• $20-$30 to start depending interview/experience/tests/shift
• 1 st Shift: 6am-4:30pm M-Th, OT Friday
• 2nd Shift: 4:15pm-2:45am Mon - Thurs, OT Fri in the future

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines in a production manufacturing environment.
• Load raw materials into machines and monitor production cycles.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools.
• Perform visual quality inspections to ensure products meet specifications.
• Read and follow basic work instructions and production documentation.
• Monitor automated equipment, including machines with robotic arms.
• Troubleshoot minor machine issues and notify supervisors of concerns.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Handle materials and finished products throughout the manufacturing process.
• Work effectively with team members to meet production and quality goals.

Qualifications Required

• Minimum 6 months of manufacturing experience, machine operation experience, or other mechanically inclined work experience such as construction, automotive, maintenance, or shop-related activities.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to follow written work instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to stand, move, and work in a production setting for extended periods.

Preferred

• Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, routers, injection molding, extrusion, printing equipment, or other computer-controlled machinery.
• Experience using calipers, micrometers, or other precision measuring tools.
• Previous quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of blueprint reading and basic shop math.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is someone who:

• Has a genuine interest in learning CNC machining.
• Demonstrates initiative and asks thoughtful questions.
• Shows enthusiasm during training and interviews.
• Wants to build a long-term manufacturing career.
• Is dependable, coachable, and team-oriented.
• Comprehensive hands-on training provided.
• Clear advancement path into Setup Technician, Lead, Engineering, or Maintenance roles.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $3,000 annually.
• Company-paid training and certification opportunities.
• Large, modern manufacturing facility.
• Fully air-conditioned production floor.
• Updated CNC equipment and automated machinery.
• Team-oriented environment focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Hiring Process

• Basic shop math assessment
• Mechanical aptitude testing
• Micrometer and caliper measurements
• In-person interview with production leadership
• Facility tour

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Cambridge, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $27.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 24, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cambridge,MN.

Equal Opportunity Employer

If you require an accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact [e-mail] .

Aerotek provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals.

Employment decisions at Aerotek are based on merit, qualifications and abilities.

Aerotek does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color and religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, disabilities or any other characteristics protected by law.