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Cnc Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Cnc Trainee information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do cnc trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc trainee in Minnesota is $20.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Cnc jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Cnc jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Cnc Trainee jobs in Minnesota? For Cnc Trainee jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cnc Trainee jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Cnc Trainee jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Cnc Trainee jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Cnc Trainee job openings:
Cnc Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cnc Trainee job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,085 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Welder / CNC Operator Trainee - $1000 Sign On Bonus

Welder / CNC Operator Trainee - $1000 Sign On Bonus

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing, Inc (CEM)

Frazee, MN • On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

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Job description

Frazee, MN | Monday–Friday | Day Shift | No Weekends

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing is looking for a Welder / CNC Operator Trainee to join our Frazee, MN team.

This is a great opportunity for someone who has some hands-on welding or manufacturing experience and wants to grow into a long-term career. This person will start by supporting welding and production needs, while also training into CNC machine operation.

This is not a from-scratch training position. We are looking for someone who already has some basic welding, shop, mechanical, or manufacturing experience and is ready to build on that.

Why CEM?

CEM is a family-owned manufacturing company with locations in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. For over 42 years, we have built our business on stability, steady growth, and taking care of our employees. We are proud to say we have never had a layoff, even through recessions, supply chain issues, and economic uncertainty.

If you are looking for a stable company where you can learn, grow, and build a long-term career, this is a great place to do that.

What You’ll Do

  • Perform welding work as needed to support production
  • Read and follow work instructions, prints, and job requirements
  • Inspect parts for quality and accuracy
  • Grind, clean, prep, and finish parts as needed
  • Assist with assembly and other shop duties when needed
  • Train into CNC machine operation
  • Load and unload parts in CNC machines
  • Learn how to check parts using measuring tools
  • Keep work area clean, safe, and organized
  • Follow all safety and quality procedures

What We’re Looking For

  • Some welding, fabrication, shop, or manufacturing experience required
  • CNC experience is a plus, but not required
  • Ability to read basic prints or work instructions preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Good attendance and reliability
  • Willingness to learn CNC operation
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
  • Someone who takes pride in doing quality work

Schedule

  • Monday through Friday
  • Day shift
  • No weekends
  • Stable, predictable hours

Benefits

  • 100% company-paid employee medical insurance with a $500 deductible plan
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) with 4% company match after eligibility
  • PTO starts day one
  • Paid holidays
  • Annual bonuses
  • Quarterly luncheons and holiday parties
  • Training and growth opportunities
  • Clean, air-conditioned shop
  • Long-term stability with a family-owned company
  • $1000 Sign On Bonus

About Continental Engineering & Manufacturing

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing specializes in precision machining, welding, assembly, and driveline components. We serve customers across North America and take pride in quality work, long-term customer relationships, and creating stable careers for our employees.

We are a smaller, family-owned company where employees are more than just a number. Many of our employees stay long-term and retire here.

Apply today to join our Frazee team and grow your career in welding and CNC machining.

Company Description

Continental Engineering and Manufacturing (CEM) is a family-owned manufacturing company based in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. Since 1983, we've been at the forefront of precision machining, welding, and assembly, which has complemented our original focus on drive shaft components and assemblies. We serve a diverse clientele across North America and beyond, offering CNC horizontal and vertical milling, CNC horizontal and vertical turning (with robotic loading), broaching, hobbing, balancing, painting, welding, assembly, inspection, and stocking programs all supported by continuous investments in upgrading equipment and cutting-edge technology.
At Continental, we foster a strong, positive culture that values teamwork, collaboration, respect, and the growth of every individual. With an impressive 42-year history of stability and a proud record of never having a single layoff, we provide our employees with a secure and supportive environment. We invest in our team’s future by offering training programs that empower our members to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
We are ISO 9001-2015 certified and committed to delivering cost-efficient, reliable products while building lasting relationships with customers, vendors, employees, and the community. Our air-conditioned shop, generous benefits, and strong emphasis on work-life balance make us a top choice for manufacturing professionals.