What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Operator III position at HEARTLAND FABRICATION LLC?
JOB PURPOSE
The CNC - Machine Operator will be responsible for the assigned to operate and set up numerical control (NC) machines to fabricate parts, applying knowledge of shop math, machinability of materials and drawings for the following equipment:
- Plasma machines
- Hydmech Saw
- Pacific press
- Standard press
- Behringer saw
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
CNC Operation
- Select, align, and secure materials, tooling, and fixtures based on production requirements.
- Program, set up, and operate CNC machinery to cut, bend, and form materials to precise tolerances.
- Regulate machining factors such as speed, feed rate, depth, and angle to ensure accuracy and quality.
- Execute production runs according to the daily schedule while maintaining adherence to all safety and quality standards.
- Inspect finished parts to verify compliance with drawings and dimensional tolerances.
- Maintain machine cleanliness, perform basic preventive maintenance, and report any equipment issues to supervision.
Equipment Setup & Operation
- Ability to run overhead crane (once certified)
- Determine part dimensions, sequence of operations, and setup
- Properly mark parts and complete storage for the next shop
Measurement & Quality Control
- Ability to read tape measure to the 1/16th inch and verify results
- Perform quality checks (plate tolerances, bend tolerances)
Maintenance Responsibilities
- Perform daily operational checks and cleanup at beginning and end of shifts
- Responsible for daily maintenance (cleaning, lubricating, oil changes)
- Notify maintenance for preventive maintenance (PM)
- Troubleshoot to operator’s level maintenance
Material Management & Inventory
- Keep daily inventory of work-in-process (WIP) and stock materials
- Ensure uninterrupted material flow
ADVANCEMENT STANDARDS
- CNC 3 – Learning 1 machine
- CNC 2 – Learning 2 machine
- CNC 1 – 3 machines and supervisor recommendation
COMPETENCIES
- CNC Equipment Operation & Equipment Setup
- Blueprint Reading & Technical Understanding
- Preventive Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Safety Awareness & Compliance
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork & Communication
QUALIFICATIONS
- Education: High school diploma or GED required
- Experience:
- At least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in the marine, or steel fabrication industry
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Heavy industrial worksite environment
- Exposure to outdoor elements, extreme heat and cold, dust, chemicals, and loud noise
- Standing for extended periods; lifting, bending, crouching, climbing, and working in confined spaces
- Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Safety-sensitive position; subject to pre-employment and reasonable-suspicion drug testing
- Overtime and flexible scheduling required