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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