Precision Machining & CNC Operator

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 83,000 - 138,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly wage

Overtime opportunities

Ongoing training

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, seeks a skilled Precision Machining & CNC Operator to join our advanced manufacturing team. You will interpret drawings, load programs, set up mills and lathes, and ensure parts meet tight tolerances with careful inspection.

You will work with state-of-the-art equipment, monitor cycle times, contribute to continuous improvement, and maintain safety and quality standards in a busy production environment near Nelspruit.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC machinery (mills and/or lathes) in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints and 3D models.
• Experience with CNC control systems such as Fanuc, Siemens or Haas.
• Skilled in using precision measuring instruments for quality control.
• Strong understanding of speeds, feeds and basic machining principles.
• Ability to troubleshoot CNC machine operations and perform minor adjustments.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC milling and turning machines to produce precision parts per specifications.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints and 3D models.
• Set up CNC machines, loading tooling, fixtures and workpieces.
• Load and verify CNC programs and make minor adjustments as needed.
• Monitor operations to ensure adherence to cycle times and quality standards.
• Conduct in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers and CMMs.
• Identify and troubleshoot machining issues and escalate when needed.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organized work area and perform routine maintenance.

Skills

CNC operation

Reading blueprints

Quality control

G-code & M-code

Troubleshooting

Machining principles

Safety compliance

Tools

Fanuc control

Siemens control

Haas control

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Precision Machining & CNC Operator to join their advanced manufacturing facility in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This role is critical for producing high-precision components used in various demanding industries. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of CNC machining principles, be proficient in operating and setting up CNC machines (mills and lathes), and possess excellent quality control skills. You will be responsible for interpreting technical drawings, programming (or loading programs), operating machinery, and ensuring that parts meet strict dimensional and surface finish specifications. This is an excellent opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment and contribute to the production of critical components.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate CNC milling and turning machines to produce precision parts according to specifications.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and 3D models.
• Set up CNC machines, including loading tooling, fixtures, and workpieces.
• Load and verify CNC programs, making minor adjustments as needed.
• Monitor machine operations, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to cycle times.
• Perform in-process quality inspections using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, CMMs).
• Identify and troubleshoot machining issues, escalating complex problems to engineering or management.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhering to safety protocols.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and lubrication.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts in machining processes and efficiency.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience operating and setting up CNC machinery (mills and/or lathes) in a precision manufacturing environment in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga .
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and blueprints.
• Experience with common CNC control systems (e.g., Fanuc, Siemens, Haas).
• Skilled in using precision measuring instruments for quality control.
• Strong understanding of machining principles, speeds, and feeds.
• Ability to perform basic troubleshooting of CNC machine operations.
• Good mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.
• Basic understanding of G-code and M-code is a plus.
• Commitment to workplace safety and quality standards.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive hourly wage based on experience and skill level. The position includes opportunities for overtime. Employees have access to ongoing training to enhance their machining skills and learn new technologies. This role is based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , within a modern and well-equipped manufacturing facility. Our client provides a stable work environment with opportunities for career growth within the precision manufacturing sector.