CNC MACHINE OPERATOR

Position Overview

The CNC Machine Operator safely and efficiently operates CNC equipment to produce quality parts according to established programs, work instructions, and engineering requirements. The ideal candidate is reliable, detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and comfortable in a production environment. Previous CNC experience is preferred, but we are willing to train the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

Operate CNC mills and/or lathes according to established programs and work instructions.

Load and unload raw material and finished parts from CNC machines.

Follow setup sheets, work instructions, drawings, and production documentation.

Verify correct material, tooling, program, and instructions before starting production.

Perform basic machine adjustments and offsets as directed.

Monitor machines and identify abnormal conditions or potential problems.

Perform in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring equipment.

Verify dimensions and part quality throughout production runs.

Communicate quality, machine, tooling, or production concerns to the appropriate machinist or supervisor.

Maintain accurate production and quality records.

Keep machines, tooling, and work areas clean and organized.

Properly handle and identify raw materials, work-in-process, and completed parts.

Assist machinists with setups, tooling, material handling, and other production activities.

Coordinate with other operators and machinists on multi-operation parts.

Follow established quality procedures, work instructions, and company safety requirements.

Support continuous improvement efforts to improve quality, productivity, and efficiency.

Quality Responsibilities

Quality is an important part of every position at Proto Technologies. CNC Machine Operators are expected to:

Inspect parts according to established inspection requirements and accurately record results.

Understand and follow applicable work instructions and quality procedures.

Stop production and notify appropriate personnel when a quality concern is identified.

Properly identify and segregate nonconforming material.

Ask questions when drawing, work instruction, or inspection requirements are unclear.

Take ownership of producing quality work.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.

Strong mechanical aptitude.

Ability to read and understand basic engineering drawings and work instructions.

Ability to use basic measuring equipment such as calipers and micrometers.

Basic computer skills and ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Strong attention to detail.

Dependable attendance and strong work ethic.

Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Commitment to safety and quality.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous CNC machine operation or manufacturing/machine shop experience.

Experience operating Haas CNC equipment.

Experience using calipers, micrometers, indicators, or other precision measuring equipment.

Basic understanding of CNC machining.

Experience with aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, plastics, or other machining materials.

Previous aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing experience.

Training & Development

This position provides an opportunity to develop CNC machining skills and advance within the machine shop. Depending on experience, training may include:

CNC machine operation and machining fundamentals.

Blueprint reading and precision measurement.

Tool and insert identification.

Basic CNC offsets and setup assistance.

Quality and inspection procedures.

Advanced operator responsibilities and CNC Machinist development.

We value employees who want to learn and grow. Demonstrated ability, reliability, quality performance, and initiative can create opportunities for advancement.

What We Are Looking For

Shows up consistently and on time and takes pride in their work.

Pays attention to detail and produces quality parts consistently.

Is willing to learn new skills and works well with others.

Communicates problems rather than allowing them to continue.

Keeps their work area clean and organized and takes safety seriously.

Can work independently once properly trained.

You don't have to know everything on day one. We are looking for people who are dependable, willing to learn, and take pride in doing quality work.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in our CNC machine shop in Liberty Lake, Washington.

3- or 4-day workweek depending on shift; occasional overtime may be available.

Ability to occasionally lift and/or push up to 50 pounds.

Position requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, and working around CNC machinery and manufacturing equipment.

Production environment requiring attention to detail and adherence to safety and quality procedures.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay: $20.00–$28.00 per hour, depending on experience, skills, and qualifications.

401(k) with company matching

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Vacation pay

Holiday pay

Why Join Proto Technologies?

AS9100D Certified and ITAR Registered.

Precision CNC manufacturing for aerospace, defense, and high-technology industries.

Challenging manufacturing environment with opportunities to learn and grow.

Skilled and collaborative manufacturing team.

Focus on quality, continuous improvement, and employee development.

If you are dependable, mechanically inclined, and interested in developing a career in CNC manufacturing, we would like to hear from you.

Pay: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

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

Work Location: In person