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Cnc Mill Machine Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

CNC Machinist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Qualifications -Proven experience as a CNC Machinist, CNC Operator, or related role. -Hands-on experience with CNC Mill Set Up, CNC Lathe Operation, and manual machines. -Familiarity with Bridgeport ...

CNC Machinist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Qualifications: -Proven experience as a CNC Machinist, CNC Operator, or related role. -Hands-on experience with CNC Mill Set Up, CNC Lathe Operation, and manual machines. -Familiarity with Bridgeport ...

CNC Machinist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Qualifications -Proven experience as a CNC Machinist, CNC Operator, or related role. -Hands-on experience with CNC Mill Set Up, CNC Lathe Operation, and manual machines. -Familiarity with Bridgeport ...

CNC Machinist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Qualifications: -Proven experience as a CNC Machinist, CNC Operator, or related role. -Hands-on experience with CNC Mill Set Up, CNC Lathe Operation, and manual machines. -Familiarity with Bridgeport ...

CNC Operator

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

The CNC Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machinery to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This role ensures components are produced to exact ...

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Cnc Mill Machine Operator information

See Washington salary details

$18

$28

$37

How much do cnc mill machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc mill machine operator in Washington is $28.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $31.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC mill machine operator?

CNC Mill Machine Operators are skilled professionals who set up, operate, and maintain computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines to produce precision metal and plastic parts. They read blueprints, input instructions into machine controls, monitor machining operations, and inspect finished products for quality. Their role is crucial in manufacturing industries where accuracy and efficiency are essential. CNC Mill Machine Operators also perform routine maintenance on equipment and make adjustments to ensure optimal machine performance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a CNC mill machine operator?

To thrive as a CNC Mill Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience in machining, and a high school diploma or technical certification in manufacturing or machining. Familiarity with CNC programming languages such as G-code, and proficiency in using measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators ensure product quality and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining production efficiency, minimizing errors, and ensuring safety in a precision-driven environment.

What are common challenges faced by CNC mill machine operators and how can they be managed?

CNC Mill Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during long production runs, troubleshooting machine errors, and managing tight production deadlines. Staying attentive to tool wear and regularly performing quality checks can help prevent defects and ensure consistent output. Additionally, developing a good understanding of CNC programming and collaborating closely with maintenance and engineering teams can make problem-solving more efficient and minimize downtime.

Is a CNC mill machine operator a good career?

A CNC mill machine operator is a skilled trade role that involves setting up and operating computer-controlled milling machines to produce precise parts. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with technical skills, and often requires certifications or training in machining and CAD/CAM software. The job can provide a stable career with potential for advancement into supervisory or specialized roles.

Where do CNC Mill Machine Operators make the most money?

CNC Mill Machine Operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong manufacturing industry, advanced aerospace, or automotive sectors. States or areas with a high concentration of manufacturing plants and skilled labor demand typically offer higher pay, especially for those with certifications and experience operating complex CNC equipment. Salary can also increase with specialization in programming or operating multi-axis machines.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Cnc Mill Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Cnc Mill Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Cnc Mill Machine Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,761 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

CNC Mill Machinist - Second Shift

Laurel, MD

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

$27.95/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Set up, program, maintain, and operate CNC and conventional milling machines for manufacturing tasks.

  • Analyze and interpret solid models and blueprints, applying GD&T to meet customer specifications.

  • Perform in-process inspection using precision measuring instruments and coordinate with quality assurance.


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 75 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you looking for a machining position, in an innovative manufacturing center, that allows you to pursue a variety of challenges?
If so, we're looking for you to become part of our creative team on second shift. In our dynamic work environment, we focus on career growth and encourage staff to share knowledge and collaborate. We make critical contributions to critical challenges by fabricating hardware that facilitates the exploration of space, the study of our oceans, and the protection of our nation, as well as many other impactful research projects.
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU APL) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated CNC Machinist to join our team. You will play an instrumental role in helping us manufacture the next generation spacecraft, undersea hardware, shipboard test systems and communication components. You will join a highly-professional, multi-disciplinary fabrication team that supports programs varying from R&D prototype to flight hardware that meet AS9100 standards.
This position will provide the opportunity to learn and work on 3-axis and/or multi-axis CNC milling machines and routers, as well as an opportunity to explore sophisticated programming, the fabrication of complex hardware, and exposure to a wide range of materials (composites, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, refractory metals, experimental alloys, etc).
This is a second shift position. The work schedule for this position is from 3:00PM to 11:30PM, Monday through Friday. Opportunities for overtime will be made available, as needed.
As an CNC Mill Machinist, your responsibilities will include...
  • Setting-up, programming, maintenance, and operation of CNC and conventional milling machines for end-to-end manufacturing with minimal direction.
  • Analyze and interpreting solid models and blueprints to meet customer specifications, applying skills in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Performing in-process inspection using precision measuring instruments (i.e., I.D and O.D. Micrometers, calipers, height gauges, etc.) to verify that customer hardware specifications and tolerances are met as well as coordinating inspection with our quality assurance section.
  • Communicating and engaging with engineers and designers to collaborate about complex designs and provide fabrication insight to ensure project success.
  • Achieving and maintaining proficiency with all applicable quality processes associated with assigned work.
  • Monitoring and recording duration of work performed in our ERP system in accordance with business and Quality procedures.
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you possess...
  • A High School diploma or equivalent.
  • 3+ years experience with set-up, programming, and operation of vertical or multi-axis CNC milling machines.
  • Experience with CAD/CAM programming software, Mastercam preferred.
  • Proficiency in operating general computer functions such as email, file directories, and other web-based applications and programs such as; Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.
  • Functional understanding of programming language (G-Code/Heindenhain).
  • Experience with conventional manual milling machines.
  • Experience interpreting blueprints that use Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Ability to inspect hardware using common measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauge pins, thread gauges, indicators, height gauges, etc.)
  • A willingness to work a second shift schedule
  • Ability to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship

You will surpass our qualifications for the job if you possess...
  • Experience in Multi-Axis machining, including simultaneous toolpathing
  • Experience in MasterCam (2024+) programming software
  • Familiarity with Mazak, DMG-Mori (Siemens), Haas, or Heidenhain CNC controls
  • Leadership and/or operations management experience
  • Track record of quoting/estimating work
  • Degrees/Certifications in relevant manufacturing subject areas
  • A current security clearance at the Secret or Top-Secret level

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$27.95 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$51.25 Hourly

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