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Cnc Trainee Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Tool & Die Maker

Conway, AR · On-site

$27.15 - $30.56/hr

Instructs/Mentors trainees within the department on an as-needed basis. * Assists in tooling design ... Advanced knowledge of manual machining skills for manual and CNC machining. * High school diploma ...

Cnc Trainee information

See Arkansas salary details

$11

$17

$30

How much do cnc trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc trainee in Arkansas is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC trainee?

A CNC Trainee is an entry-level position for individuals learning to operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines in a manufacturing setting. They assist experienced machinists and technicians by setting up machines, loading materials, running basic operations, and performing routine maintenance. The role is designed to provide hands-on training and foundational knowledge in CNC programming, machine operation, and safety protocols. Over time, CNC Trainees develop the skills needed to advance to more specialized or senior CNC roles.

What are some typical challenges a CNC trainee might face during the initial months on the job?

As a CNC Trainee, you may encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex technical drawings, understanding the nuances of machine setup, and mastering the safe handling of various tools and materials. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and maintaining high precision under supervision can also be demanding. However, most employers provide thorough onboarding and mentorship to help you gradually build confidence and competence in these areas.

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

To thrive as a CNC Trainee, you need basic mechanical aptitude, strong math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC machines, blueprint reading, and basic programming—often introduced through on-the-job training or vocational courses—are important technical assets. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel and adapt in manufacturing environments. These skills ensure accurate machine operation, minimize errors, and support career advancement in precision manufacturing.

What is the difference between Cnc Trainee vs Cnc Operator?

AspectCnc TraineeCnc Operator
CredentialsBasic technical training, certification often preferredRelevant certifications, experience in operating CNC machines
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksActive production floor, machine operation
Job RoleLearning and assisting in CNC operationsRunning CNC machines independently
Experience LevelEntry-level, beginnerIntermediate, experienced

The main difference between a Cnc Trainee and a Cnc Operator is experience and responsibility. A Cnc Trainee is in training, learning the basics under supervision, while a Cnc Operator has hands-on experience and can operate CNC machines independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, with trainees progressing to operators as they gain skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Cnc jobs in Arkansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Cnc Trainee jobs in Arkansas?

For Cnc Trainee jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cnc Trainee jobs in Arkansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Cnc Trainee jobs in Arkansas are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Cnc Trainee jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Cnc Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Cnc Trainee job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,376 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Machinist Trainee - 2nd shift

Caterpillar

North Little Rock, AR • On-site

$25.45 - $31.85/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Operations
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Your Work Shapes the World
Whether it be groundbreaking products, best in class solutions or creating a lifelong career, you can do the work that matters at Caterpillar. With a 95-year legacy of quality and innovation and 150 locations in countries around the world, your impact spans the globe.
Caterpillar has an exciting opportunity for a CNC Machining Trainee in North Little Rock, AR. In this role, you will set up, operate, and adjust automatic machining centers to perform various machining operations on large parts. You do this by working as a team, with safety and quality shaping the way we do our work.
In this role, you will:
  • Working from standard operating procedures, set-up and operate machines to perform routine machining process.
  • Using a variety of measuring equipment and gauges, will perform quality checks according to the quality plan ensure the quality of the product produced.
  • Perform all preventative maintenance and safety checks on machines.
  • Recognize operating irregularities and machine malfunctions and troubleshoot problems to correct. If necessary, contact Team Lead for assistance.
  • Collaborate with engineers, production personnel, programmers, or others to resolve machining problems.
  • Perform changes and minor adjustments of all basic tooling, progressing to be able to change and adjust all tooling in the machine.
  • Communicate daily with operators from other shifts, Team Lead, and Manager as to the condition of machines and or parts within your responsibility.
  • Maintain records relating to production, downtime, quality, etc.
  • Perform other miscellaneous job duties and related functions as directed by Team Lead, Manager, or another designated person.
  • Must perform as a team member with the willingness and attitude to work with others to resolve problems. Must also maintain good working relationships with others within the organization.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to follow written and visual work instructions, with little to no direction.
  • Math skills for inputting specific dimensions and figures into CNC Machinery
  • Basic computer operating skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

TOP CANDIDATES WILL ALSO HAVE:
  • 2-5 years of previous experience with:
    • CNC Milling Machine
    • CNC G-Code Programming
    • Fixture, Tooling and Rework Set-Up
  • Technical certificate in related field
  • Advanced knowledge of CNC Mills & G-Code Programming
  • Strong commitment to safety and teamwork
  • Excellent problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of people in challenging situations.
  • Willing to work overtime as needed.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to climb up and down work platforms multiple times daily.
  • Ability to stand, walk, squat and bend for long periods of time.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Additional Information
Shift: 2nd shift
Hours:3pm - 11pm, Monday- Friday
Work Location: North Little Rock, Arkansas
Shift differential - 7%
What you will get:
Our goal at Caterpillar is for YOU to have a rewarding career. Here you earn more than just an hourly wage because we value your performance, we offer a total rewards package that provides Day ONE benefits (medical, dental, vision, RX, and 401K) along with the potential of a quarterly bonus. Additional benefits include paid holidays and paid time off (prorated based upon hire date).
Final details
Resumes are highly encouraged
. Please do not submit a blank application (no work history or resume attached) as this may lead to disqualification. Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application - please use the candidate log-in (Be sure to keep your username and password when you initially apply) on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O
Summary Pay Range:
$25.45 - $31.85
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
August 25, 2026 - September 8, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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