ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cnc Cutting Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Protolabs

CNC Support Tech

Nashua, NH · On-site

This includes supporting production operators with machine & fixture related problems. 3pm to 11pm ... Experience with cutting tools (drills, saws, grinders, etc) * Experience with professional ...

Eagle Technologies LLC

CNC Machine Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

CNC Machine Operator Eagle Technologies, LLC (Newport News, VA) is seeking CNC Machine Operators ... Use Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) cutting machines and precision measuring tools. Monitors ...

Apply Early

Express Pros SW-PA

CNC Plasma Cutter

Mckeesport, PA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

This is a great opportunity for experienced CNC operators, machinists, and plasma cutting professionals looking for steady, full-time work. Position Details * Pay: $18 to $28 per hour depending on ...

New

Apply Early

Bay Ltd.

CNC Burn Table Operator

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

Operate CNC plasma and oxy-fuel cutting tables to cut steel plate according to production ... Experience with operating CNC plasma cutting equipment. Messer preferred * Familiarity with steel ...

H Loeb Corp

CNC Operator

New Bedford, MA · On-site

Salary: $17 to $24 CNC Operator Levels 1 & 2 Hiring Now H. Loeb Corporation Dartmouth / New Bedford ... Youll work on our Routers (ShopSabre, Gerber), Znd Cutter, and Atom CNC, cutting plastics, foam ...

Apply Early

Skilled Trades Services

Be Seen First

HankWank Laser Cutting Operator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Solid experience with CNC / Laser Cutting equipment * Strong blueprint reading + layout skills ... Operators who take pride in clean, accurate work * People who show up, get it done, and do it right

Apply Early

Nautique Boat Company, Inc

CNC DESIGN ENGINEER

Orlando, FL · On-site

$63K - $81K/yr

Ensure repeatability and traceability across shifts and operators. * Lead first-article validation ... Strong knowledge of CNC cutting processes, tooling, feeds/speeds, and machine capabilities.

Terex

Machine Operator I

Mount Vernon, MO · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

CNC Cutting Operator Responsibilities * Reviews 2D & 3D CAD design blueprints * Program 3 axis CNC plasma and laser cutting table utilizing Hypertherm's Pronest offline programming software

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCnc Cutting Operator Jobs

CNC Cutting Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do cnc cutting operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc cutting operator in the United States is $22.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are CNC Cutting Operators?

CNC Cutting Operators are skilled professionals who operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut, shape, and finish materials such as metal, plastic, or wood according to precise specifications. They are responsible for setting up the machine, loading materials, monitoring the cutting process, and making adjustments to ensure quality and accuracy. CNC Cutting Operators also perform routine maintenance on equipment and may interpret technical drawings or blueprints. Their role is essential in manufacturing and fabrication industries, ensuring components are produced efficiently and to high standards.

What is the highest salary of a CNC operator?

The highest salary for a CNC cutting operator can reach around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced skills, or supervisory roles. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and certifications such as CNC programming or machine operation expertise.

How much does a CNC operator earn?

The average salary for a CNC cutting operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in CNC programming and machine setup tend to earn higher wages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC Cutting Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CNC Cutting Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining processes, blueprint reading, and mechanical aptitude, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC programming software, machine calibration tools, and quality control systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators excel in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These skills ensure precise product output, efficient workflow, and adherence to safety and quality standards.

Is CNC operation a good career?

CNC Cutting Operator is a skilled manufacturing role that involves operating computer-controlled cutting machines, often requiring technical training or certification. It offers steady employment opportunities in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, with potential for skill development and advancement. The job typically involves working in a factory environment with attention to safety and precision.

Can a CNC machinist make 100k a year?

A CNC Cutting Operator typically earns less than $100,000 annually, with average salaries ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Reaching a $100,000 salary usually requires advanced skills, certifications, or supervisory roles in high-demand manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Cnc Cutting Operator vs Cnc Machinist?

AspectCnc Cutting OperatorCnc Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic CNC trainingHigh school diploma, technical CNC training or certification
Work EnvironmentFabrication shops, manufacturing plantsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusOperating CNC cutting machines for sheet or plate cuttingProgramming, setting up, and operating CNC machines for various machining tasks

The main difference is that Cnc Cutting Operators primarily operate CNC machines for cutting tasks, focusing on setup and operation. Cnc Machinists often have broader responsibilities, including programming and maintaining CNC equipment. Both roles require technical skills and work in similar industrial environments, but Cnc Machinists typically have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What are the typical challenges faced by CNC Cutting Operators during production runs?

CNC Cutting Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, dealing with tool wear, and ensuring material consistency throughout the production run. Adapting quickly to unexpected issues like machine malfunctions or programming errors is also common. Effective communication with programmers and quality control staff is crucial to resolve problems efficiently and meet production deadlines. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps operators minimize downtime and produce high-quality components.
More about CNC Cutting Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Cnc Cutting Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cnc Cutting Operator jobs are:
CNC Cutting Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cnc Cutting Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,022 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
CNC Support Tech

CNC Support Tech

Protolabs

Nashua, NH • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Protolabs rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 79 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Be yourself at Protolabs 
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to building a diverse team that feels they are valued in the workplace. So do you feel you do not meet every single requirement but still intrigued? We encourage you to still apply! You can help make our company even better. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, mental or physical ability, or any way you represent yourself. We strongly believe diversity makes for more successful teams. 
 
Why Protolabs? 
We are the leaders in digital manufacturing.  We hire doers, makers, and creative thinkers who tackle our roles with an entrepreneurial spirit.  Our culture is centered around meaningful work that brings new and innovative products to market at unprecedented speeds.  We are a diverse team that comes from all walks of life and take pride in our team who is smart, genuine, humble, and passionate about what we do.  It's our people who fuel our creativity and make our culture feel like home. 

Join our team as a CNC Support Technician!
 

The CNC Support Tech is responsible for set-up, calibration & trouble shooting of CNC machines along with associated equipment.  This includes supporting production operators with machine & fixture related problems.  

3pm to 11pm Mon - Fri
 


   

What you will do
  • Set-up, calibrate & perform alarm recovery on CNC mills & supporting equipment
  • Installation, removal & calibration of; 4th & 5th axis trunnions, clamping vises, (mechanical & hydraulic) Vacuum fixturing & associated pneumatics 
  • When appropriate, make setting or parameter offsets on CNC machines & associated equipment
  • Install, calibrate & inspect digital CNC probes, (tool probe & work probe)
  • Assist with maintaining inventory of CNC cutting tools, holders & misc. equipment, including organizing, sorting & record keeping.
  • Assist with inspecting & changing of CNC cutting tools & holders per conditional requirements, when appropriate
  • Assist with installation, set-up & calibration of CNC cutting tools
  • Perform comprehensive calibrations and operations on CNC Mills and equipment
  • Provide feedback regarding tooling and machine related issues to appropriate departments
  • Work with, assist and coach operators, as required regarding tooling & machine related criteria
  • Engage with and manage work orders as appropriate
  • Assist with diagnosing & troubleshooting tool wear and tooling inconsistencies
  • Provide feedback regarding machine & equipment status
  • Assist with & perform material type changeovers on CNC machines (Flexing of tool sets)
  • Assist with coolant pressure, coolant concentricity & vacuum pressure audits
  • Assist in maintaining, assembling, inspecting & inventory of work holding fixtures
  • Ability to Communicate updates by use of email & verbal communication
  • Adhere to all quality and safety standards within the department.
  • Maintain clean and organized work area with emphasis on safety, quality, efficiency, and utilization.
  • Continually seek to improve work processes and individual performance.
  • Adhere to all company policies and operational procedures.
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned.
What it takes
  • Minimal High School diploma or equivalent Education
  • 5 years of manual machining or CNC experience
  • Experience with CNC digital work probe & tooling probes (set-up, replacement, recovery)
  • Experience with troubleshooting & recovering CNC machine alarms 
  • Must be mechanically inclined
  • Knowledge of CNC mill setup and operation
  • Strong Problem-Solving skills
  • Able to work safely with sharp & heavy objects (i.e. cutting tools, fixtures, etc.)
  • Able to use required measuring instruments such as calipers, dial indicators, inspections cameras, etc.
  • Able to perform consistent quality inspection of cutting tools
  • Able to safely operate handheld and stationary power tools
  • Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office (i.e. Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Outlook etc.)
  • Skilled in the use of measuring instruments such as indicators, gage blocks, dial bores, and inspection plate methods along with in-process inspection of precision machined parts
  • Ability to work with close tolerances (0.0005") of all processes
  • Basic Knowledge of cutting feeds, speeds, and tool life
  • Able to read and write in English along with ability to complete basic arithmetic
Bonus point for
  • Experience with cutting tools (drills, saws, grinders, etc)
  • Experience with professional inspection & quality audits
  • Experience with CNC digital work probe & tooling probes (set-up, replacement, recovery)
  • Experience with troubleshooting & recovering CNC machine alarms
  • Manual machining or CNC machining experience
  • Experience with 3, 4 and 5 axis mill setup and operation
  • Experience with Haas & Mazak machine tools
  • Experience with Robot automation
  • Manual machining experience
  • Knowledge of basic CNC programming techniques
$20.14 - $24 an hour
Protolabs offers a competitive total rewards package, and compensation mix vary based on position, such as base wage, as well as other earnings including incentives and commissions. Actual pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors which may include, without limitation, job function, work experience, specialized skills, training, education, and certifications. 
Proto Labs maintains ITAR-compliant operations in all of our United States based facilities.  Due to ITAR regulations, this role is only open to U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or foreign nationals granted refugee or asylee status.  Individuals with temporary visas (e.g. E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, TN or OPT) are not eligible for hire in this role.
 
Proto Labs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer
 
Physical Demands:
While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit; use a computer keyboard, monitor and mouse, telephone and printer; reach with hands, and arms, talk, see and hear.  The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, stoop or kneel and must be able to lift and/or move up to 70 pounds. 

Work Environment:
Indoors (A/C); nonsmoking; the majority of this job function is performed in a manufacturing area exposed to machinery and noise; with eye protection and safety shoes required. Occasionally works in outside weather conditions. Occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.
  

apply for this job

What Protolabs employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply