CNC OPERATOR (TRAINEE)

Freeform; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 34,440 - 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options in a pre-IPO company

100% employer-paid Medical, Dental & Vision insurance

Traditional & Roth 401(k)

Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Generous paid parental leave

Free daily catered lunch & dinner

Casual dress and flexible hours

Job summary

Freeform Technologies in Hawthorne, CA is looking for a Full-Time CNC Operator. This entry-level position involves operating CNC mills and lathes, assisting with set ups and inspections, and gaining foundational CNC skills. The ideal candidate will have 1+ year of CNC operation experience or a relevant formal machining program. The position offers $25-$30/hour, stock options, and comprehensive benefits including 100% employer-paid health insurance and flexible hours.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of CNC operation experience OR completion of a formal machining program.
• Basic understanding of CNC machining and G-code.
• Ability to read basic blueprints and follow work instructions.
• Willingness to learn and grow skills quickly.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Operate and support CNC mills and lathes used to finish metal 3D printed parts.
• Assist with set ups, tool changes, and basic G-code edits.
• Load, unload, and monitor machining cycles.
• Perform inspections using calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Help maintain a clean and safe shop environment.

Skills

CNC operation experience

Understanding of CNC machining and G-code

Ability to read blueprints

Willingness to learn

Physical ability to lift

Education

Completion of a formal machining program

Tools

CNC Mills

CNC Lathes

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

At a Glance

Company: Freeform Technologies
Location: Hawthorne, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $25 – $30/hour (based on experience) + Stock Options
Shift: Flexible
Overtime: Yes, as needed
Experience Level: Entry / Early-Career
Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Why This Role Exists

Freeform is scaling production and building the next generation of machinists. Freeform operates AI-driven, autonomous metal 3D printing factories that rely on precision CNC machining to turn printed metal into production-ready parts. As production volume increases, Freeform is investing in training and developing CNC talent from the ground up.

The Work You’ll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Operate and support CNC mills and lathes used to finish metal 3D printed parts
• Assist with set ups, tool changes, and basic G-code edits
• Load, unload, and monitor machining cycles
• Perform in-process and final inspections using calipers, micrometers, and gauges
• Use manual shop equipment (mills, lathes, bandsaws, grinders) for deburring and fixture support
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe shop environment
• Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement projects alongside machinists and engineers

This role is designed to build strong CNC fundamentals, not just run buttons.

Machines, Controls & Shop Environment

You’ll gain exposure to:

Machines:

• CNC Mills and Lathes
• Multi-axis CNC machining centers (as you progress)

Controls:

• G-code–based CNC controls

Inspection Tools:

• Calipers, micrometers, gauges
• Visual and in-process inspection tools

What We’re Looking For

Required:

• 1+ year of CNC operation experience OR completion of a formal machining program (NTMA, community college, or similar)
• Basic understanding of CNC machining and G-code
• Ability to read basic blueprints and follow work instructions
• Willingness to learn, take feedback, and grow skills quickly
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs

Preferred (Not Required):

• Experience with CNC mills or lathes
• Familiarity with precision measuring tools
• Exposure to metal additive manufacturing or post-processing
• Comfortable working around shop utilities (air, water, inert gases)

Materials You’ll Work With

• Aluminum
• Stainless Steel
• Titanium
• Nickel-based alloys

Pay, Benefits & Schedule

Pay: $25 – $30/hour (DOE)

Benefits Include:

• Stock options in a pre-IPO company
• 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
• Traditional & Roth 401(k)
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous paid parental leave
• Free daily catered lunch & dinner
• Casual dress and flexible hours
• Team events and ongoing training opportunities