Entry Level CNC Operator

axiomcustom; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 24,796 - 30,307; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

20 days PTO

Job summary

Axiom Custom Products in Portland, Oregon is looking for an Assistant CNC Operator. This entry-level role offers hands-on experience in CNC manufacturing, with mentoring from experienced team members. You will contribute to production while learning vital machine operation and quality control procedures.

Successful candidates will have a strong willingness to learn, good communication skills, and attention to detail. Pay ranges from $18 to $22/hour, with excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) options.

Qualifications

• Strong willingness to learn and adapt to new situations.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning schedules and material preparation.
• Learn to operate and maintain Axiom's CNC equipment.
• Conduct quality inspections and ensure part accuracy.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Tools

CNC machinery

3-axis and multi-axis routers

Job description

Axiom Custom Products is a designer and custom manufacturer that services the creative, events, retail, and construction industries. A team of 75, we leverage our digital manufacturing technologies, manufacturing expertise, and decades of trial and error to deliver the highest quality products - an outcome unmatched. We offer our clients extensive in‑house services and capabilities that allow us to take on projects at any stage of development from concept to installation.

When it comes to our team, they enjoy excellent pay, great benefits, including medical, dental, vision for the employee (with additional cost options for dependents). We offer 401 k and ROTH investment options. After year one you accrue 20 days of PTO, yep, your read that right! Combined with paid holidays, our benefits are some of the best in our industry.

The Role

This is an entry‑level opportunity for individuals with a strong desire to learn and contribute to the manufacturing process. As an Assistant CNC Operator at Axiom, you'll embark on a rewarding learning journey while contributing to the production of our high‑quality custom products. You'll gain hands‑on experience with our versatile machinery under the guidance and mentorship of our experienced CNC team. Teamwork is key, as you'll assist with planning schedules, learning how to meticulously prep and load material, observing machine operation, and maintaining a safe work environment. Your attention to detail will be valuable as you learn inspection procedures to ensure parts meet our unique standards. Communication and a willingness to learn are essential in our dynamic team, where adaptability and proactive problem‑solving are valued. If you're eager to grow your skills and contribute to a collaborative environment, this is your chance to shine at Axiom! This position reports to the CNC Manager.

Position Responsibilities:

• Learn to operate and maintain Axiom's 3‑axis and multi‑axis routers with potential to cross‑train on laser and press brake. Prioritize accuracy, quality, organization, efficiency, and safety in all operations.
• Production Planning and Execution:
  • Collaborate with the CNC manager to establish daily and weekly cut priorities
  • Learn to efficiently execute work assignments as per run sheets and direction from the CNC Manager
  • Shadow experienced operators during material handling and setup tasks, and work towards doing it independently
• Material Handling and Setup:
  • Verify and double‑check materials, ensuring they match the assigned job, deliverable, and program before cutting
  • Ensure materials are free of defects before initiating cuts
  • Load materials accurately based on run sheets
  • Learn to tool machines appropriately according to run sheets
  • Adhere to all set‑up procedures and machine operation protocols
  • Openly communicate with the CNC manager and programmers to seek clarification and remove issues before cutting material
• Quality Assurance and Inspection:
  • Observe machines during operation
  • Learn inspection procedures for finished parts for accuracy, cut quality, fitment, and finish according to deliverable specifications
  • Count, organize, stack, and package parts for delivery to the next manufacturing stage
  • Play a key role in ensuring the accuracy of CNC‑made parts
• Communication and Collaboration:
  • Observe and learn best practices in coordinating with programmers, purchasers, and project managers to ensure proper material storage and handling
  • Actively participate in team communication
• Maintenance and Organization:
  • Assist with routine machine maintenance as per guidelines, and work towards performing independently
  • Perform opening and closing duties as required
  • Maintain server integrity and file organization procedures
  • Uphold safety, maintenance, and procedural protocols
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment in CNC areas
  • Help manage the tooling library and request new tools when inventory levels are too low
  • Help manage the CNC rack inventory, ensuring material is properly tagged, and movements and consumptions are tracked on the inventory sheet

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Strong willingness to learn and adapt to new situations
• Ability to take direction and follow through with tasks
• Positive and professional attitude with a commitment to safety and teamwork
• Ability to lift and carry
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Willingness to undergo training and certification for forklift operation

Bonus Skills and Experience:

• Experience operating CNC machinery, including routers, lasers, or press brakes. Familiarity with 3‑axis and multi‑axis machines is a plus
• Understanding of machining principles such as nesting, tooling selection, feed rates, and cut order optimization
• Knowledge of various material properties and behaviors (wood, metal, plastic)
• Ability to maintain accuracy and consistency throughout production runs
• Experience with quality control practices and inspection procedures
• Familiarity with general fabrication and manufacturing processes
• Ability to troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, and suggest corrective actions
• Ability to communicate clearly to clarify instructions, report problems, and collaborate effectively with team members
• Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to colleagues and managers
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage priorities effectively
• Eagerness to learn, adapt to new situations, and continuously improve
• Experience operating multi‑axis milling machines
• Experience operating an Amada press brake or Kern laser

Key Performance Indicators:

• Complete work within set timeframes and project requirements
• Parts delivered on time, accurately, and in an organized manner
• Low instances of rework
• A consistently visually clean workspace and organized rack space
• Positive feedback from supervisor and colleagues

Pay range for this position is $18 to $22/hour.