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Cnc Machinist Setup Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Kelly Services

CNC Setup Operator

De Pere, WI

$23 - $29/hr

Setting up and operating multiple CNC machines to fabricate plastic products according to customer and production standards * Reviewing blueprints and setup sheets to ensure accurate part production

Kelly Services

CNC Setup Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

Setting up and operating multiple CNC machines to fabricate plastic products according to customer and production standards * Reviewing blueprints and setup sheets to ensure accurate part production

SEEK Careers Staffing

CNC Machinist

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Setup and Operation: Set up, adjust, and operate CNC machines (lathes, mills, or specialized ... Qualifications * Experience: 2+ years of experience setting up and operating CNC machining ...

SEEK Careers Staffing

CNC Machinist

Weyauwega, WI · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

CNC Machinist Are you looking to sharpen your skills in a precision-driven environment? We are ... Whether you're an experienced operator or someone with a solid mechanical aptitude looking to grow ...

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All JobsCnc Machinist Setup Operator JobsCnc Machinist Setup Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Cnc Machinist Setup Operator information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do cnc machinist setup operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc machinist setup operator in Appleton, WI is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $25.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cnc Machinist Setup Operator vs Cnc Programmer?

AspectCnc Machinist Setup OperatorCnc Programmer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications preferredTechnical training or certification in CNC programming
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, operating and setting up machinesDesigning and writing CNC code, often in an office or computer lab
Primary ResponsibilitiesSetting up CNC machines, ensuring proper operation, and running productionDeveloping CNC programs, optimizing machining processes

The main difference is that Cnc Machinist Setup Operators focus on preparing and operating CNC machines, while Cnc Programmers create the code that guides these machines. Both roles require technical skills, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC machinist setup operator?

To thrive as a CNC Machinist Setup Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and experience with precision measuring instruments, usually backed by vocational training or an associate degree. Familiarity with CNC programming languages (such as G-code), machine setup procedures, and operation of CAD/CAM software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient production, maintaining quality standards, and minimizing machine downtime in a manufacturing environment.

What is a CNC machinist setup operator?

CNC Machinist Setup Operators are skilled technicians who prepare, set up, and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines to produce precision parts and tools. They read blueprints, install and adjust machine tools, load materials, and ensure machines run correctly throughout the production process. Their role is crucial in maintaining quality and efficiency, troubleshooting issues, and conducting inspections to meet exact specifications.

What are some common challenges CNC machinist setup operators face during machine setup, and how can they be overcome?

CNC Machinist Setup Operators often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, ensuring precise machine calibration, and troubleshooting programming errors during setup. These challenges can be managed by staying up-to-date with the latest CNC software, following standardized setup checklists, and maintaining clear communication with engineers and quality control teams. Additionally, attention to detail and a methodical approach to verifying measurements and tolerances help prevent costly errors and ensure efficient production runs.
What are popular job titles related to Cnc Machinist Setup Operator jobs in Appleton, WI? For Cnc Machinist Setup Operator jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cnc Machinist Setup Operator jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Cnc Machinist Setup Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Cnc Machinist Setup Operator jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Cnc Machinist Setup Operator job openings:
Cnc Machinist Setup Operator jobs near you

CNC Setup Operator

Kelly Services

De Pere, WI

$23 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

We get it: job searching takes time and attention. At Kelly®, we’re here to make it a whole lot easier for you. We’re seeking a CNC Setup Operator to work at a premier manufacturing client in Green Bay, WI. This opportunity could be the one you’ve been looking for.

Salary/Pay Rate/Compensation: $23–$29 per hourShift: 3rd shift (7:30pm–6:00am, Monday–Thursday)Why you should apply to be CNC Setup Operator:
  • Competitive pay rate with steady, full-time hours
  • Opportunity to join a leading manufacturer in the plastics industry
  • Work in a safety-first environment with a strong focus on quality
  • Develop and expand your CNC setup and operation skills
  • Be part of a collaborative and improvement-driven team
What’s a typical day as CNC Setup Operator? You’ll be:
  • Setting up and operating multiple CNC machines to fabricate plastic products according to customer and production standards
  • Reviewing blueprints and setup sheets to ensure accurate part production
  • Making machine adjustments and tooling offsets as needed
  • Determining the most efficient machine operation methods and collaborating with Continuous Improvement leaders to maximize productivity
  • Performing first article inspections and working closely with Quality Control to ensure top-quality parts
  • Using gaging equipment to check parts and ensuring proper setup of your work area
  • Loading and unloading materials using safe lifting practices
  • Complying with all workplace safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations
This job might be an outstanding fit if you:
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent (required)
  • Bring a minimum of 3 years’ experience in CNC machine operation, including setup and running multiple machines
  • Are able to read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, and customer specifications to produce parts accurately
  • Have at least 1 year of CNC setup experience and a basic knowledge of G and M code, including the ability to make tooling offset and machine adjustments
What happens next?

Once you apply, you’ll proceed to next steps if your skills and experience look like a good fit. But don’t worry—even if this position doesn’t work out, you’re still in our network. That means all of our recruiters will have access to your profile, expanding your opportunities even more.

Helping you discover what’s next in your career is what we’re all about, so let’s get to work.
Apply to be CNC Setup Operator today!


As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Put your skills to work.

There are a lot of different light industrial jobs out there. Kelly® Professional & Industrial recruiters are focused on only offering opportunities with companies that provide competitive pay, safe work environments, and cultures that recognize your value. Whether you’re looking for flexible shifts, performance bonuses, or a progressive work culture-we’re dedicated to finding the very best opportunities for you.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.