CNC Technician Level II

Clayens; Rockford, Machesney Park (IL, IL); On-site; USD 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Clayens in Rockford, IL is seeking a skilled CNC Set‑Up Technician to set up and operate CNC mills and lathes, read blueprints, and ensure parts meet exact specifications. You will adjust tooling, edit G-code, and support continuous improvement while upholding safety and quality.

Candidates should have at least five years of CNC experience, strong GD&T skills, and the ability to work with minimal supervision in a fast‑paced environment. Overtime may be required to meet delivery targets.

Qualifications

• Five years CNC machining experience in manufacturing.
• Advanced GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
• Ability to read work orders and engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes and manual machines.
• Edit G-code and adjust offsets to maintain tolerance.
• Perform first article and in-process inspections with precision tools.
• Review production schedules and ensure on-time delivery.
• Maintain 5S workspace and document manufacturing records.

Skills

CNC machining principles

GD&T interpretation

Blueprint reading

Machining program edits

Quality inspection

Troubleshooting

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

CNC mills

CNC lathes

CMM operation

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Regular Full-Time Rockford, Machesney Park, IL, US

Salary Range: $28.00 To $31.00 Hourly

Location: Machesney Park, IL

Department: Manufacturing

Reports to: Supervisor

Job Summary

The CNC Set‑Up Technician is responsible for the safe and efficient setup, operation, and adjustment of CNC and manual machining equipment to manufacture precision components that meet customer specifications. This position performs machining operations with minimal supervision, conducts inspections, edits programs as needed, and supports continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and productivity.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual mills, manual lathes, assembly equipment, and automation equipment.
• Read, interpret, and accurately execute manufacturing work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications.
• Demonstrate advanced blueprint interpretation and a strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Select appropriate tooling, install tooling, and perform tool offsets and adjustments.
• Edit G-code programs as needed to improve machining performance and ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Set up fixtures and verify proper machine operation before production.
• Perform first article and in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Operate Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) as required.
• Utilize measuring equipment including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges, indicators, and other inspection tools.
• Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality standards.
• Complete production documentation accurately and maintain required manufacturing records.
• Package and handle finished product according to customer specifications and company standards.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping expectations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives that improve safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.
• Assist in training and mentoring less experienced machinists as assigned.
• Review daily production schedules and prioritize work to meet customer delivery requirements.
• Communicate equipment concerns, quality issues, and production challenges to supervisors in a timely manner.
• Follow all company safety policies, quality procedures, and standard operating procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of CNC machining principles and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to independently set up and operate CNC machining equipment.
• Advanced blueprint reading skills with proficiency in GD&T.
• Experience editing G-code programs and making machine offsets.
• Strong understanding of machining feeds, speeds, tooling, and workholding.
• Ability to use a variety of precision measuring instruments accurately.
• Experience performing first article and in-process inspections.
• Basic understanding of CMM operation preferred.
• Strong mathematical and mechanical aptitude.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing quality parts.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining issues and identify process improvements.
• Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Positive attitude and willingness to assist coworkers and support production goals.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• English proficiency sufficient to read work instructions, safety procedures, and manufacturing documentation and communicate effectively with coworkers.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with CNC mills and lathes required.
• Experience performing machine setups and program edits preferred.
• Experience operating CMM equipment is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the work shift.
• Frequently use hands and fingers to operate machinery, tooling, and measuring instruments.
• Lift, push, pull, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Perform repetitive motions while maintaining precision and accuracy.
• Occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or reach.
• Possess visual acuity necessary to inspect machined components and read precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, moving mechanical equipment, and metalworking fluids while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to machine noise, metal chips, coolants, oils, and moving mechanical equipment.
• Required use of personal protective equipment including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed footwear.
• Overtime and weekend work may be required based on business needs.