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Cnc Helper Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

CNC Machinist

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$22/hr

Job Title: CNC Machinist Location: Bloomington, MN Employment Type: Direct Placement Industry ... About Acara Solutions Acara is a premier recruiting and workforce solutions provider- we help ...

CNC Milling Specialist

Willernie, MN

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

As a member of our 35+-employee team, you will help support our perfection-driven customers and the 9 Westfall molding facilities across North America. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CNC MILLING SPECIALIST ...

CNC Milling Specialist

Willernie, MN

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

As a member of our 35+-employee team, you will help support our perfection-driven customers and the 9 Westfall molding facilities across North America. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CNC MILLING SPECIALIST ...

Candidates will be operating CNC mills and lathes to machine customer specific parts. Candidates ... year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals ...

CNC Milling Specialist

Willernie, MN ยท On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

As a member of our 35+-employee team, you will help support our perfection-driven customers and the 9 Westfall molding facilities across North America. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CNC MILLING SPECIALIST ...

CNC Lathe Operator - Pay $23 to $30/hr - Great Opportunity For Growth! Job Summary We are looking ... year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals ...

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CNC Machinist Programmer

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$66K - $93K/yr

CNC Programmer As a CNC Programmer at J&J Machine, you are the brain of our manufacturing process ... If you are willing to put in the effort and build on your skills we will commit to helping you ...

CNC Machinist Programmer

Elk River, MN ยท On-site

$66K - $93K/yr

CNC Programmer As a CNC Programmer at J&J Machine, you are the brain of our manufacturing process ... If you are willing to put in the effort and build on your skills we will commit to helping you ...

Showing results 21-40

Cnc Helper information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do cnc helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc helper in Minnesota is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cnc Helper vs Cnc Operator?

AspectCnc HelperCnc Operator
CredentialsMinimal certifications, on-the-job trainingOften requires technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentAssists in machine setup and maintenance, works alongside operatorsOperates CNC machines directly, monitors production
Industry UsageCommon entry-level role in manufacturing and machiningSkilled role with more responsibility in machining processes
Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level manufacturing rolesCompared for technical proficiency and machine operation

The main difference between a Cnc Helper and a Cnc Operator is that the Cnc Helper provides support and assistance in machine setup and maintenance, usually with minimal certifications, while the Cnc Operator directly controls and monitors CNC machines, often requiring technical training. The Helper role is ideal for those starting in manufacturing, whereas the Operator role involves more responsibility and skill.

What is a CNC helper?

CNC Helpers assist machine operators and machinists in the setup, operation, and maintenance of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. Their duties often include loading materials, changing tools, cleaning work areas, and performing basic quality checks. They support the manufacturing process by ensuring machines run smoothly and efficiently, and may also help troubleshoot minor issues under supervision. This entry-level position provides hands-on experience and can lead to more advanced roles in CNC machining.

What does a CNC helper do?

As a CNC Helper, you will typically support machine operators by preparing materials, loading and unloading parts, cleaning machines, and ensuring tools are available and in good condition. You may also assist with basic measurements and quality checks to ensure parts meet specifications. This hands-on role often involves working closely with experienced machinists, which can provide valuable learning opportunities and a pathway to advance within the manufacturing field.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a CNC helper?

To thrive as a CNC Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, familiarity with machining processes, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with CNC machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes basic CAD or blueprint reading is beneficial. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to learn quickly are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe and efficient support of CNC operations, contributing to precision manufacturing and minimizing errors.

Is CNC in high demand?

CNC Helper positions are in high demand due to the ongoing need for precision manufacturing and machining. Skilled workers with knowledge of CNC machines, programming, and safety protocols are sought after in various manufacturing industries, often leading to stable employment opportunities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Cnc jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Cnc Helper jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Cnc Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Cnc Helper job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,076 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$25.14 - $44.71/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview
About Cretex Medical
Cretex Medical is a leading contract manufacturer of precision components and assemblies for the medical device industry. Our customers view us as a trusted partner in the areas of injection molding, laser processing, metal stamping and device assembly. Learn more at www.cretexmedical.com.
Position Summary:
The CNC Programmer will be responsible for providing the main programming for the Mold and Stamping Toolrooms, Cretex fixturing, and internal projects. Additionally, the Programmer will support the modification of models and designs based on repairs and/or revisions of all tooling and/or fixtures.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for CNC programming for all projects and plastic injection molding components programming.
  • Develop the machining process and evaluate manufacturability for all primary and secondary machining operations.
  • Utilize CAD/CAM to generate manufacturing files and all supporting requirements for the machining operations to include setup sheets, fixturing and identify custom tooling.
  • Program control from "cradle to grave", revision control, and archiving.
  • Ensure posts are in proper order to generate CNC code.
  • Identify, research, and develop solutions to machining related issues and new technologies.
  • Work with production personnel, manufacturing engineers, Toolmakers to improve processes, tooling, and fixturing.
  • Lead training and continued growth of CNC programming skills within the toolroom
  • Support internal and external design changes through the Change Order (CO) process

Qualifications
  • 2+ years combined experience in programming, set-up and/or operation of CNC machines and plastic injection mold building
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks
  • Must be highly proficient with CAM systems such as, (Cam Tools, Esprit and Mastercam)
  • Knowledge of Fixturing, Plastic Injection Molds and Stamping Tools
  • Able to extract and design complex electrodes
  • Understanding of Wire EDM and Die sinking processes
  • Experience with Additive and Subtractive 3D print machining
  • Advanced blueprint and GD&T knowledge
  • Proficient in basic mathematics and trigonometry
  • Familiarity with tool steels, carbide and plastics machining
  • Ability to interact effectively and escalate concerns to all levels of the organization
  • Ability to cross train in other areas of production when required
  • Microsoft Office proficiency (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills

Desirable Criteria & Qualifications
  • 10+ years combined of programming, plastic injection mold building set-up and/or operation of CNC machines
  • Continuing Education; including participation in local chapters, associations, and/or organizations

What is it like to work at Cretex Medical?
We recognize the contribution of every individual and promote growth, safety and security for all our employees. Cretex Medical values performance and pays competitive wages along with a rich benefit package. We offer a positive work environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
Here are some of things that employees have said about working for Cretex Medical:
  • "The culture at Cretex is collaborative. Everyone here is willing to help you whether it is a director, a machinist, or your boss. Everyone is always willing to help you figure out a project and get it done right."
  • "I would tell potential interns that Cretex is a great company to work for. It has set a high bar for corporate culture as well as the quality of work you can do. I would definitely recommend it."
  • "I learned that I really like the medical device industry. The importance and the gravity of what we do here is felt by the employees. You can have that passion in your work because you know what you are striving for is to save lives."

We encourage you to explore the many opportunities Cretex Medical can offer you as a valued team member.
#LI-JB1
Pay Range
USD $25.14 - USD $44.71 /Hr.
Pay Range Details
This pay range reflects the base hourly rate or annual salary for positions within this job grade, based on our market-based pay structures. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as skills, relevant experience, education, internal equity, business needs, and local market conditions. While the full hiring range is shared for transparency, offers are rarely made at the minimum or maximum of the range.
Pay Ranges:
Programmer I: $25.14 - 36.49
Programmer II: $27.12 - 40.67
Programmer III: $29.81 - 44.71
Company Benefits
All Employees:
Our 401k retirement savings plan with a company match contribution; onsite health clinics, discretionary holiday bonus program (based on years of service), Cretex University, 24/7 employee assistance program with access to five confidential visits with a licensed counselor at no cost, wellness program with incentives, an employee death benefit, and employee sick and safe leave are available to all Cretex employees.
20+hours:
Cretex's medical benefit package includes: comprehensive medical insurance with access to virtual providers; dental insurance (Little Partners Dental benefit covers services 100 percent for children 12 and younger when seen by a Health Partners in network provider); vision insurance; a pre-tax health savings account, healthcare and dependent care pre-tax reimbursement accounts; paid holidays, paid time off; and our discretionary profit sharing program are available to employees working 20+ hours/week.
30+ hours:
Parental Leave, accident and critical illness benefits, optional employee, spouse, and child life; short and long term disability; company provided life insurance; and tuition assistance programs are available to employees working 30+ hours per week.
(Some benefits are subject to eligibility criteria.)
Applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, family status, status with regard to public assistance, or any other protected status as required by law.
Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment and eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.