What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Operator - 1+ years experience position at Hughes Fabrication & Welding?
Job Overview:
We are seeking a skilled CNC Operator / Setup Machinist to support tight-tolerance production in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role focuses primarily on machine setup, tooling, and hands-on machining. The ideal candidate is comfortable taking a part from a provided program, model, or drawing through to a finished product while maintaining quality, efficiency, and repeatability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Set up and operate CNC milling and lathe machines for production using existing programs.
- Demonstrate strong machine setup skills, including fixturing, work offsets, tool offsets, and job verification.
- Select, install, and verify appropriate tooling for each job prior to production.
- Machine parts from carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and other materials while holding tight tolerances.
- Interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and GD&T to ensure parts meet specifications.
- Monitor machining processes to ensure efficiency, minimize downtime, and reduce tool wear or breakage.
- Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools and document results accurately.
- Prepare and support first-article inspections and production runs.
- Assist with basic job planning, cycle time awareness, and workflow improvements.
- Track tooling usage and assist in maintaining tooling and consumable inventory.
- Troubleshoot machining issues and assist teammates with setups as needed.
- Maintain machines through routine cleaning, fluid checks, and general upkeep.
- Support continuous improvement in fixturing, tooling, and machining processes.
Qualifications:
- Strong CNC setup and operation experience (mills and/or lathes).
- Comfortable working from existing programs; minor edits or CAM familiarity is a plus but not required.
- Experience with SMEC machines and Fanuc controls preferred.
- Proficient with precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators).
- Solid understanding of machining fundamentals, tolerances, and shop math.
- Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with the production team.
- Physically capable of standing, bending, walking, and lifting up to 50 lbs in a manufacturing environment.
- Programming or drawing experience is a plus, but not required.
We value attention to detail, reliability, and craftsmanship. This position is ideal for a hands-on machinist who enjoys setup work, precision machining, and producing quality parts. We offer a supportive shop environment with opportunities for skill development and long-term growth.
Pay: $15.00 - $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: No less than 45 per week
Benefits:
- Paid time off
Experience:
- Machining: 2 years (Preferred)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Preferred)
- Night Shift (Preferred)
- Overnight Shift (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Navasota, TX 77868 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Navasota, TX 77868: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $25