CNC Operator II - Entry-US-1st Shift

Kennametal; La Vergne (TN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Kennametal is seeking a CNC Operator III – Entry for our La Vergne, TN facility, working Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 3 PM. You will operate multiple 4‑ and 5‑axis end‑form grinders, read blueprints, and verify parts with precision measurement tools in a temperature‑controlled shop.

Join a collaborative team where problem solving and safety matter; experience with Haas, Penta or similar platforms is valued and opportunities for skill development abound.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years CNC machining experience (milling, turning or grinding).
• Strong understanding of tooling, feeds/speeds and setup processes.
• Able to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T specifications.
• Comfortable standing for extended periods and lifting up to 33 pounds.
• Demonstrated problem solving and safety focus.
• Experience with G-code programming is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC 4- and 5-axis end-form grinders; load and unload inserts.
• Perform quality inspections using precision measurement tools to verify dimensions and visuals.
• Troubleshoot moderate to complex issues; adjust grinding programs to optimize cycles.
• Maintain tooling and equipment; resurfacing as needed for optimal machine performance.
• Document production data and communicate safety, quality, and product issues across shifts.

Skills

CNC machining

Reading blueprints

GD&T

G-code familiarity

Problem solving

Safety procedures

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Haas

Penta

Combi

Job description

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear‑resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kenametal.com.

Why Kennametal?

For over eighteen decades, our employees have helped customers around the world manufacture with precision and efficiency to build everything from aircraft to electric vehicles to medical devices. Our commitment to excellence isn’t just a goal; it’s ingrained in everything we do. We believe in the power of collaboration and individual accountability, where every voice is valued, and every team member plays a crucial role in shaping our future. Together, we push the boundaries of what’s possible, driving change and transforming how everyday life is built.

The Role

We're seeking a CNC Operator III – Entry – US to join our La Vergne, TN team, working Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 3 PM. In this role, you’ll operate multiple 5–6 axis end‑form grinding machines in a temperature‑controlled manufacturing environment. You’ll work with advanced CNC equipment including EWAG Compact, Linear, and Haas machines to produce precision components. This position offers hands‑on experience with complex machining processes while contributing to products that impact industries worldwide. You’ll be part of a collaborative team environment where your technical skills and problem‑solving abilities will be valued and developed.

Key Responsibilities

• Setup and operate CNC 4‑ and 5‑axis end‑form grinders, loading and off‑loading inserts from multiple machines
• Perform quality inspections using precision measurement tools to ensure proper dimensions and visual characteristics
• Troubleshoot moderate to complex problems and adjust grinding programs to optimize cycles
• Maintain tooling and equipment, resurfacing as needed to ensure optimal machine performance
• Document production information accurately and communicate safety, quality, and product issues across shifts

What We Need to See From You

• You have a high school diploma or GED and strong attention to detail
• 2+ years of CNC machining experience (milling, turning, or grinding)
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, feeds/speeds, and set‑up processes
• You can read and interpret blueprints, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing specifications, and work instructions
• You’re comfortable standing for extended periods and can lift up to 33 pounds
• You demonstrate strong problem‑solving skills and commitment to safety procedures
• You’re reliable, dependable, and thrive in a collaborative team environment
• Basic understanding of G‑code or CNC programming is preferred
• Experience with Penta, Haas, Combi or similar platforms is preferred

Ready to build your future with us? Reply to this message to start your application today!

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.