CNC Plasma Operator

STS Technical Services is hiring a CNC Plasma Operator in West Point, Mississippi. This role is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of CNC plasma cutting equipment to produce precision metal components in accordance with engineering drawings, work orders and quality specifications.
If you have hands-on CNC plasma cutting experience, understand production drawings and know how to work safely in a manufacturing shop environment, we want to hear from you.
Position Summary
The CNC Plasma Cutting Table Operator is responsible for operating computer-numerically controlled plasma cutting equipment to support production throughput, dimensional accuracy and material utilization while following all safety and quality management system requirements.
Machine Setup and Operation Set up and operate CNC plasma cutting table per daily work orders and router packages
Load and interpret CNC programs, including G-code and machine-native formats
Make minor program edits as authorized
Select and install correct consumables, including tips, electrodes, shields and swirl rings, per material type and thickness
Set plasma parameters including amperage, cut speed, pierce delay and gas pressures
Nest parts efficiently using CAM/nesting software to maximize material yield and minimize scrap
Perform test cuts and verify dimensional accuracy prior to full production runs Quality and Inspection Perform in-process inspection using calipers, squares and tape measures to verify part dimensions
Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts and cut-to-size specifications
Identify, tag and segregate nonconforming material
Initiate NCR documentation as required
Maintain first-article documentation and traveler sign-offs per QMS procedures
Monitor cut quality indicators, including dross, bevel angle, kerf width and surface condition Material Handling Stage raw material, including plate, sheet and structural material, at the machine using overhead crane, forklift or manual handling
Verify material certifications and heat/lot traceability prior to cutting
Handle, label and store finished cut parts to prevent damage and maintain part identity
Return and properly store remnant material
Update material inventory as applicable Preventive Maintenance and Housekeeping Perform daily pre-shift inspections, including water table level, rail cleanliness, Z-axis calibration and consumable condition
Clean slag, spatter and water table debris per scheduled PM intervals
Lubricate drive components and check drive system alignment per OEM maintenance schedule
Log machine downtime, consumable usage and maintenance actions in the maintenance log
Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with 5S standards Safety Follow all lockout/tagout procedures before performing any maintenance or consumable change
Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, face shield, hearing protection, steel-toed footwear and flame-resistant clothing
Monitor and maintain proper ventilation and fume extraction during cutting operations
Report unsafe conditions, near misses and incidents immediately to supervision Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED required
Technical or vocational training in welding, machining or fabrication preferred
Minimum 1 to 2 years of hands-on CNC plasma cutting experience in a manufacturing environment
Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and material certifications
Basic math skills including fractions, decimals and measurement conversions
Proficiency with common hand measuring tools, including calipers, tape measure and combination square
Ability to safely operate overhead crane and/or forklift
Crane or forklift certification preferred or obtainable Preferred Qualifications Experience with nesting software such as Hypertherm ProNest, SigmaNEST or equivalent
Familiarity with Hypertherm, Lincoln Electric or ESAB plasma cutting systems
Prior experience in a defense, aerospace or ISO 9001-certified manufacturing environment
Knowledge of metal alloys including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum and high-strength steels
Familiarity with basic G-code editing and CNC controller interfaces such as Burny, Hypertherm Phoenix or similar Physical Requirements Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently
Lift and carry 51 to 100 lbs. occasionally with assistance or equipment
Stand and walk on concrete flooring continuously throughout shift
Bend, stoop and reach frequently
Work in environments with heat, noise and fumes continuously
Use hands and fingers for precise adjustments continuously Work Environment
This position operates in a manufacturing shop environment with exposure to metal fumes, UV/IR arc light, noise levels requiring hearing protection and hot work surfaces. Temperatures may vary seasonally. PPE is required at all times on the shop floor.
Authorization
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
About STS Technical Services
STS Technical Services is a Top 100 Staffing Firm that partners with some of the largest names in the aerospace, manufacturing, defense and industrial industries. Our professional recruitment teams connect talented individuals with career opportunities at client locations throughout the United States and around the world.
If you want to speak with a Recruiting Professional directly, call 1-800-359-4787.
STS Technical Services is an equal opportunity employer.
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