CNC Machine Operator – 1st Shift / Future 2nd Shift

Baxter Machine & Tool Co.
Jackson, Michigan
Starting Pay: $19.00 per hour
Current Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM
Future Shift Opportunity: Second Shift – Fall 2027

Job Description

Baxter Machine & Tool Co. is seeking dependable, detail-oriented individuals to join our team as CNC Machine Operators.

Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, or grinders is preferred but not required. We are willing to train motivated individuals who are mechanically inclined, comfortable with basic math, and interested in developing machining skills.

Important: Preparing for Second Shift in Fall 2027

Baxter Machine is preparing to introduce a second production shift in the fall of 2027, and we are beginning to build the team that will help support that expansion.

All positions are currently first shift (7:00 AM–3:30 PM). However, we will give strong hiring preference to applicants who are willing and able to transition to second shift when it becomes available, approximately one year from now.

Our goal is to hire and train employees on first shift so they are familiar with our equipment, processes, and quality expectations before transitioning to second shift.

Applicants interested in remaining on first shift are still welcome to apply, but candidates who are open to moving to second shift in fall 2027 will receive priority consideration.

The exact second-shift hours and transition date have not yet been finalized.

Job Responsibilities

• Operate CNC mills, lathes, grinders, and other production equipment.
• Load and unload parts while maintaining efficient machine operation.
• Learn to make machine offsets and adjustments to maintain part specifications.
• Use precision measuring equipment to inspect parts and verify dimensions.
• Read and understand dimensions, tolerances, and basic work instructions.
• Perform basic shop math, including decimals and fractions.
• Accurately record production quantities, downtime, and other required information.
• Complete Statistical Process Control (SPC) measurements and documentation.
• Monitor part quality throughout production and identify potential issues.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Follow all company safety, quality, and production procedures.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants must be able to:

• Perform basic math, including decimals and fractions.
• Learn CNC machine operation, offsets, and basic adjustments.
• Learn to use precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Understand measurements, dimensions, and tolerances.
• Accurately complete production records and SPC documentation.
• Stand and work on their feet for 8–10 hours per day.
• Follow written instructions and established procedures.
• Work independently once properly trained.
• Demonstrate dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Take responsibility for the quality of their work.

Preferred Experience

Experience in any of the following areas is beneficial but not required:

• CNC lathes
• CNC mills
• CNC grinders
• Precision measuring equipment
• Blueprint reading
• Statistical Process Control (SPC)
• Manufacturing or machine-shop environments

We welcome applicants without previous CNC experience who demonstrate mechanical aptitude, a willingness to learn, and strong attention to detail.

Schedule and Shift Expectations

Current Shift: First Shift

• Monday–Friday
• 7:00 AM–3:30 PM

Planned Second Shift: Fall 2027

• Second-shift hours will be determined as expansion plans are finalized.
• Employees hired now may have the opportunity to transition to second shift.
• Applicants willing to make this transition will receive strong preference during hiring.

Overtime is occasionally available or required, although Baxter Machine generally operates with minimal overtime.

Employment Structure

New employees will begin employment through a temporary staffing agency for a minimum of 520 working hours.

Compensation

• Starting pay is $19.00 per hour.
• Candidates with relevant CNC machining, manufacturing, or inspection experience may be considered for higher starting pay based on their demonstrated skills and experience.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• On-the-job training

What We're Looking For

At Baxter Machine, we value dependability, attention to detail, accountability, and a willingness to learn.

You do not need years of CNC experience to be successful here. We are looking for individuals who show up consistently, take pride in producing quality parts, follow instructions, and want to develop their machining skills.

As we prepare to expand into second-shift operations in 2027, we are particularly interested in candidates who want to grow with our company and are willing to make the transition to second shift when the time comes.

If you have CNC experience, we encourage you to apply. If you are mechanically inclined and interested in learning CNC machining, we would also like to hear from you.

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply.

Work Location: In person – Jackson, Michigan

Pay: From $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Application Question(s):

• What machining experience do you have?

Work Location: In person