CNC Operator

STS Technical Services is hiring a CNC Operator in West Point, Mississippi, to support precision metal cutting and fabrication operations in a manufacturing environment.

This role is responsible for setting up and operating CNC equipment, loading programs, verifying cut quality, inspecting finished parts and maintaining production accuracy in accordance with engineering drawings, work orders and Quality Management System requirements.

Position Overview

The CNC Operator supports daily production by safely operating computer-numerically controlled cutting equipment used to produce precision metal components.

This position requires hands-on CNC experience, the ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T callouts, familiarity with G-code and a strong understanding of material handling, inspection, preventive maintenance and shop safety.

Machine Setup and Operation

• Set up and operate CNC equipment according to daily work orders and router packages
• Load and interpret CNC programs using G-code or machine-native formats
• Make minor program edits as authorized
• Select and install the correct consumables based on material type and thickness
• Install tips, electrodes, shields and swirl rings as required
• Set plasma cutting parameters, including amperage, cut speed, pierce delay and gas pressure
• Nest parts using CAM or nesting software to maximize material utilization and reduce scrap
• Perform test cuts before beginning full production runs
• Verify dimensional accuracy before releasing parts for production

Quality and Inspection

• Perform in-process inspections using calipers, squares and tape measures
• Verify part dimensions against engineering requirements
• Read and interpret engineering drawings
• Interpret GD&T callouts and cut-to-size specifications
• Identify, tag and segregate nonconforming material
• Initiate nonconformance documentation when required
• Maintain first-article documentation
• Complete traveler sign-offs according to QMS procedures
• Monitor cut quality, including dross, bevel angle, kerf width and surface condition

Material Handling

• Stage plate, sheet and structural material at the machine
• Use overhead cranes, forklifts or manual handling methods as required
• Verify material certifications before cutting
• Confirm heat and lot traceability
• Label, handle and store completed parts to protect them from damage
• Maintain part identification throughout production
• Return and properly store remnant material
• Update material inventory when required

Preventive Maintenance and Housekeeping

• Perform daily pre-shift machine inspections
• Check water table levels
• Maintain clean machine rails
• Verify Z-axis calibration
• Inspect consumable condition
• Remove slag, spatter and water table debris according to preventive maintenance schedules
• Lubricate drive components as required
• Check drive system alignment according to OEM maintenance schedules
• Record machine downtime
• Track consumable usage
• Document maintenance activities
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S standards

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all Lockout/Tagout procedures before maintenance or consumable changes
• Wear required personal protective equipment
• Maintain proper ventilation and fume extraction during cutting operations
• Report unsafe conditions immediately
• Report near misses and workplace incidents to supervision
• Follow all established shop safety requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• At least two years of hands-on CNC experience in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Ability to read material certifications
• Basic math skills involving fractions, decimals and measurement conversions
• Proficiency using calipers, tape measures and combination squares
• Ability to safely operate an overhead crane and/or forklift
• Ability to obtain required equipment certification if not already certified

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical or vocational training in welding, machining or fabrication
• Experience using nesting software such as Hypertherm ProNest, SigmaNEST or equivalent
• Familiarity with Hypertherm plasma cutting systems
• Familiarity with Lincoln Electric plasma cutting systems
• Familiarity with ESAB plasma cutting systems
• Experience working in defense, aerospace or ISO 9001-certified manufacturing environments
• Knowledge of mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum and high-strength steel alloys
• Familiarity with basic G-code editing
• Familiarity with CNC controller interfaces such as Burny, Hypertherm Phoenix or similar systems
• Overhead crane or forklift certification

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to occasionally lift or move 51 to 100 pounds with assistance or equipment
• Ability to stand and walk on concrete flooring throughout the shift
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop and reach
• Ability to work around heat, noise and fumes
• Manual dexterity required for precise machine adjustments

Work Environment

This position operates in a manufacturing shop environment with exposure to metal fumes, UV and IR arc light, elevated noise levels and hot work surfaces.

Temperatures may vary seasonally. Required personal protective equipment must be worn while working on the shop floor.

About STS Technical Services

STS Technical Services is a Top 100 Staffing Firm that partners with leading aerospace, manufacturing, defense and industrial organizations across the United States. We connect skilled professionals with career opportunities where their experience can make an immediate impact.

Apply Today

If you have CNC cutting experience and are ready to support precision metal fabrication operations, apply today to join STS Technical Services as a CNC Operator in West Point, Mississippi.

Equal Opportunity Employer

STS Technical Services is an equal opportunity employer.

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