Apprentice Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

At a Glance

• Company: C & S Machine & Manufacturing
• Location: La Grange
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Pay Range: $19.00 – $23.00 per hour (based on experience)
• Shift: Full-Time Manufacturing Schedule (Overtime and off-shift hours as needed)
• Overtime: Available based on customer demand
• Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level CNC Experience
• Industry: Aerospace, Defense, Firearms & OEM Manufacturing
• Work Authorization: Must be able to pass background check and drug screen
• Benefits: Competitive benefits package available
• Company Certifications: ISO 9001, ITAR Registered, DFARS Compliant, Type 07 FFL, Class 2 SOT

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Why This Role Exists

This role exists because C & S Machine & Manufacturing continues to grow its production capabilities across the aerospace, defense, firearms, and industrial manufacturing sectors. As a third-generation family-owned manufacturer operating a modern 60,000-square-foot manufacturing campus, C & S continues to invest heavily in advanced CNC technology, automation, fabrication, welding, metrology, and workforce development.

This position plays a key role in producing high-quality precision components and assemblies for OEM customers who depend on accuracy, consistency, and on-time delivery.

If you want to work in a modern manufacturing environment with advanced equipment, real career growth opportunities, and a company that actively reinvests in technology and people, this is an excellent opportunity.

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The Work You’ll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes
• Load raw materials, tooling, fixtures, and workholding
• Follow work instructions and setup documentation
• Monitor machining operations to maintain quality and efficiency
• Perform in-process and final inspection using precision measuring tools
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and production documentation
• Make machine adjustments and troubleshoot basic machining issues
• Maintain accurate production and quality records
• Perform routine machine maintenance and housekeeping
• Work safely in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Collaborate with production, quality, and manufacturing teams to meet customer requirements

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Machines, Controls & Manufacturing Technology

You’ll work with advanced manufacturing equipment such as:

CNC Turning

• Okuma LB3000 EX II
• Okuma LT2000 EX
• Okuma LU-300
• Mori Seiki NLX2500SY
• Daewoo Puma Series

CNC Machining

• Makino a71nx
• Makino a81nx
• Doosan HP-6300
• Doosan DNM Series
• Enshu 650VX

Multi-Tasking & Vertical Turning

• Okuma Multus U4000
• Doosan Puma V550

Inspection & Quality

• Zeiss Contura G2
• Calipers, micrometers, indicators, bore gauges, and precision inspection equipment

Software

• ESPRIT TNG CAM
• SolidWorks
• JobBOSS ERP
• AutoCAD
• Inventor Pro

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Materials You’ll Work With

• Aluminum
• Alloy Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Firearms Components
• Aerospace & Defense Materials
• Production OEM Components

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What We’re Looking ForRequired

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to read, write, and speak English
• Ability to pass a drug screen and background check
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments
• Basic math skills
• Ability to read blueprints and follow work instructions
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Safety-minded attitude and willingness to work in a team environment

Preferred

• 1+ years of CNC machining experience, trade school, apprenticeship, or vocational training
• Experience operating CNC mills and/or lathes
• Forklift certification
• Experience in aerospace, defense, firearms, or OEM manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 manufacturing standards

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Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose C & S Machine & Manufacturing because the company combines old-school craftsmanship with modern manufacturing technology.

• Third-generation family-owned company
• Veteran-owned manufacturing business
• Modern, technology-driven manufacturing environment
• Over 30 CNC machines across machining, turning, fabrication, and welding
• State-of-the-art quality lab and inspection equipment
• Clean, organized, professional shop environment
• Stable workload across aerospace, defense, firearms, and industrial industries
• 24-hour manufacturing operation with continued growth
• Apprenticeship and workforce development opportunities
• Team-oriented culture that values skilled tradespeople
• Strong focus on precision, accountability, and continuous improvement

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Pay, Benefits & SchedulePay Range

$19.00 – $23.00 per hour (DOE)

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Paid time off and holidays
• Career growth opportunities
• Apprenticeship and skills development programs
• Stable long-term manufacturing environment

Schedule

• Full-Time
• Overtime and off-shift hours may be required based on customer demand

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About C & S Machine & Manufacturing

Founded in 1969, C & S Machine & Manufacturing is a third-generation family-owned contract manufacturer serving aerospace, defense, firearms, and OEM customers. The company operates a modern 60,000-square-foot manufacturing campus in La Grange, Kentucky, featuring advanced CNC machining, fabrication, robotic welding, metrology, coating, and vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities.

C & S is ISO 9001 certified, ITAR registered, DFARS compliant, and currently pursuing AS9100 certification as it continues expanding its capabilities in the aerospace and defense sectors.

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Apply

Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.

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