CNC Operator - Wichita, KS

Higgins Group, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Higgins Group in Wichita, KS is seeking a CNC Operator to safely and accurately run vertical CNC machines and other woodworking equipment used for architectural millwork components. You will review shop drawings, set up tooling, load programs, and ensure quality throughout production.

The ideal candidate has 2–3 years of CNC experience in millwork or cabinetry, can read production specs, and shows a strong safety and quality focus.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years CNC operating experience in millwork or cabinetry.
• Ability to read shop drawings, cut lists, and production specifications.
• Proficiency with measuring tools and tolerances.
• Strong attention to safety, quality, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate vertical CNC machines used in millwork production.
• Review drawings, cut lists, and work orders for accuracy.
• Load programs, verify machine settings, perform tool changes and basic setup.
• Inspect materials and finished components for quality and tolerances.
• Maintain documentation and clean, safe work area.

Skills

CNC operation

Reading shop drawings

Measuring & inspection

Safety & quality focus

Tools

Vertical CNC machines

Dowel insertion equipment

Edge banders

Job description

Full Time | Wichita, KS

Compensation: Hourly, with final compensation depends on experience. Paid weekly.

Position Summary

The CNC Operator supports Higgins Group's Architectural Millwork Service by safely and accurately operating CNC machinery and other woodworking equipment used to manufacture custom architectural millwork components. This position requires experience with CNC equipment, tooling, machine setup, and production processes. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically capable, and committed to producing high-quality work while maintaining an efficient and safe work environment.

Core Responsibilities

• Set up and operate vertical CNC machines used in architectural millwork production.
• Operate dowel insertion machines, edge banders, and other woodworking equipment.
• Review shop drawings, cut lists, work orders, and production specifications.
• Select, install, and adjust tooling based on material and production requirements.
• Load programs, verify machine settings, and make adjustments as needed.
• Perform tool changes, offsets, calibrations, and basic machine setup.
• Inspect raw materials and completed components for accuracy, quality, and defects.
• Verify dimensions and tolerances using tape measures, calipers, and other measuring tools.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment, tooling, and production issues.
• Perform routine machine cleaning and preventive maintenance.
• Monitor material usage and help reduce waste and rework.
• Label, organize, and stage completed components for assembly or the next production phase.
• Coordinate with engineering, production, assembly, and shop leadership to maintain workflow.
• Maintain accurate production and quality-control documentation.
• Follow all company safety procedures and equipment manufacturer guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Assist with additional millwork production and shop responsibilities as business needs require.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of two to three years of CNC operating experience, preferably in architectural millwork, cabinetry, woodworking, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Experience setting up and operating vertical CNC machinery.
• Working knowledge of doweling equipment, edge banders, and related millwork machinery.
• Experience selecting, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting CNC tooling.
• Ability to read shop drawings, cut lists, and production specifications.
• Ability to accurately use tape measures, calipers, and other measuring instruments.
• Understanding of machining speeds, feeds, offsets, tolerances, and tool wear.
• Ability to identify and resolve basic machine or production issues.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.
• Dependable attendance and ability to meet production schedules.
• Willingness to follow established safety and quality procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience manufacturing commercial architectural millwork or custom cabinetry.
• Experience working with plywood, MDF, laminate, veneer, solid-surface products, and hardwood.
• Familiarity with CNC programming or CAD/CAM software.
• Experience performing preventive maintenance on CNC and woodworking equipment.
• Forklift or material-handling equipment experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and work on a production floor for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently bend, reach, push, pull, and handle materials.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently.
• Ability to safely handle full-size sheet goods and manufactured components with assistance or material-handling equipment.
• Ability to work around machinery, dust, noise, and moving equipment while wearing required personal protective equipment.

Work Environment

This position works primarily within an active architectural millwork production facility. The Operator will regularly work around CNC equipment, saws, edge banders, tooling, dust-collection systems, and material-handling equipment. Strict compliance with safety requirements is expected at all times.

Higgins Group - Work Hard. Stay Lean. Honor Christ.

Employment contingent upon passing Drug Test, Physical, and E-Verify

Salary: $18 - $24 per hour