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Cnc Punching Machine Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Laser and CNC Punching Machine Programmer Why Great Northern Privately held, Great Northern Instore, a division of Great Northern Corporation, is a Multi-Million Dollar, Designer, Engineering, and ...

... punching, cutting, forming machines, or press brakes. * Ability to use hand tools and precision ... Basic knowledge of machine controls and programs. * Ability to read blueprints * Ability to work ...

CNC Machine Operator

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

... CNC) machines. The position requires employees to maintain quality and safety standards, accurate ... Accurately perform all functions required at clock emulator, which includes punching in and out at ...

CNC Machine Operator

West Chicago, IL

$21 - $28.50/hr

... CNC) machines. The position requires employees to maintain quality and safety standards, accurate ... Accurately perform all functions required at clock emulator, which includes punching in and out at ...

... assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, forming, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing ...

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... punching in and out for paid break time. * Perform proper cleaning and maintenance of machine tools ... Set up and operate manual and CNC lathes and mills to produce precision parts to blueprint and ...

Operate various manual and CNC machines to fabricate parts according to standard specifications ... Experience with set-up and operation of computer-controlled punching, cutting, forming machines, or ...

This position performs duties to operate CNC twelve - axis lathes, machine tools, or vertical ... Ability to use floor terminals to perform job tasks such as punching on and off jobs, reviewing ...

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Cnc Punching Machine information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do cnc punching machine jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc punching machine in Chicago, IL is $24.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC punching machine?

A CNC Punching Machine job involves operating and maintaining a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) punching machine, which is used to cut, shape, and punch holes in sheet metal. The operator is responsible for loading materials, setting up the machine, monitoring operations, and ensuring accuracy based on design specifications. They also perform quality checks, troubleshoot minor machine issues, and follow safety procedures. This role requires knowledge of machine programming, blueprint reading, and material handling.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a CNC punching machine operator?

As a CNC Punching Machine Operator, your typical day involves setting up and programming the machine, loading sheet metal materials, monitoring production runs, and inspecting finished parts for quality and accuracy. You’ll also be responsible for routine machine maintenance, troubleshooting minor faults, and documenting production data. Collaboration with quality control, engineering, and other production team members is common to resolve issues and ensure products meet specifications. This role often requires standing for long periods and adhering to strict safety guidelines, making attention to detail and strong organizational skills essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the CNC punching machine position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CNC Punching Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and familiarity with blueprint reading, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Experience using CNC punching machines, knowledge of programming G-code, and understanding of safety protocols are essential, and industry certifications like NIMS can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring high-quality output, minimizing downtime, and maintaining a safe, efficient workflow.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc Punching Machine jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cnc Punching Machine jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Cnc Punching Machine jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Cnc Punching Machine jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cnc Punching Machine jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cnc Punching Machine jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Cnc Punching Machine job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,665 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Laser and CNC Punch Machine Programmer

Great Northern

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Great Northern Corporation rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Laser and CNC Punching Machine Programmer
Why Great Northern
Privately held, Great Northern Instore, a division of Great Northern Corporation, is a Multi-Million Dollar, Designer, Engineering, and Manufacturer of Custom Permanent Point Purchase Displays and Retail Fixtures.
Great Northern is committed to making a difference in the lives of our team members, customers, and the communities in which we live and work. Many of our team members were referred to by their friends and families who are already a part of the Great Northern team.
The Benefits of Great Northern
  • Competitive 401K match and a historically generous profit-sharing retirement savings contribution

  • Paid Time Off and IL Paid Leave after 30 days of employment

  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Medical PPO, Health Savings Account, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Wellness Program

  • Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability available

  • Health Fitness, Safety Prescription Glasses, and Safety Shoes Reimbursement

  • Tuition Reimbursement available after 1 year of service

  • Opportunities to advance your career and compensation level

  • Annual increases

Pay/Schedule:
  • On-site Monday-Friday 5:45a.m.-2:15p.m.

  • Hourly $26-$30
  • Key Responsibilities:

Interpret engineering drawings, PDFs, and 3D models to develop CNC programs and flat-pattern layouts for laser and CNC punching equipment.
Develop programs and layouts for square and round tubing using CAD/CAM software.
Work closely with Production Engineering and Design Engineering to develop manufacturing processes, resolve production issues, and support Design for Manufacturability (DFM).
Reverse engineer parts when drawings or models are unavailable.
Select appropriate machines, tooling, cutting parameters, and manufacturing methods to produce parts efficiently.
Utilize nesting and material optimization software to maximize material usage and minimize scrap.
Prepare and maintain setup sheets, work instructions, and other manufacturing documentation.
Maintain accurate and current CNC programs and ensure Production is using the correct released files.
Verify first-piece and production parts to ensure they meet engineering specifications and quality requirements.
Troubleshoot programming, machine, tooling, and process-related issues and work with TRUMPF Technical Support when necessary.
Perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on laser and CNC punching equipment. Coordinate with the Maintenance Department or TRUMPF service technicians for more complex repairs.
Provide technical support to Production personnel and assist with manufacturing and process-related problems.
Identify and implement opportunities to improve productivity, quality, material utilization, and manufacturing processes.
Maintain effective communication with Production Engineering, Design Engineering, Production, and other departments.
Follow all company safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment
Actively participate in production activities and support company priorities when and where needed.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.
Requirements:
Minimum of 1 year of experience programming and/or setting up laser or CNC punching machines in a sheet metal manufacturing environment.
Experience with TRUMPF laser and CNC punching equipment is a plus.
Experience with BLM Tube laser equipment is a plus.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and 3D models.
Working knowledge of sheet metal materials, fabrication processes, tooling, and machine operations.
Experience with CAD/CAM and nesting software. Experience with Boost for Fiber Laser/CNC Punch and Artube for Tube Laser is a plus.
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to troubleshoot manufacturing issues.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with Engineering, Production, and other departments.
Bilingual Spanish and/or Polish is a plus. Willingness to work overtime when needed.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
Opportunities for Growth:
You will have the opportunity to gain experience, and new skills and acquire new knowledge that can be applied to grow into new positions with higher pay. Furthermore, you can grow your career with Great Northern through advancement opportunities available at our facilities locally and nationally.
Expectation
To be successful your teammates will depend on you to have pride in your work, be on time, work safely, work effectively with others, be optimistic, take ownership of your responsibilities, and look for continuous improvement opportunities.
Great Northern is an equal opportunity at-will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, or national origin.

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