CNC Plasma Operator

STS Technical Services

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West Point, Mississippi

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CONTRACTOR

Updated 09/08/2026

Job Description

Job Summary

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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