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Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Smiths Group

CNC Machinist - Operator/Programmer

Pasadena, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Keep machine(s) / work area clean and orderly. * Perform additional duties and responsibilities ... Minimum 3 years of CNC machine tool Programming & Operating experience. * Numerical control ...

Smiths Group

CNC Machinist - Operator/Programmer

Pasadena, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Keep machine(s) / work area clean and orderly. * Perform additional duties and responsibilities ... Minimum 3 years of CNC machine tool Programming & Operating experience. * Numerical control ...

Openwork

CNC Operator (Weekend Nights)

Houston, TX

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Openwork is engaged in a search for a Weekend Nights CNC Operator for precision machining company specializing in the Oil & Gas industry in the Pearland area. Apply today if you meet the ...

Openwork

CNC Operator - Day Shifts

Houston, TX

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Openwork is engaged in a search for a Day Shift CNC Operator for precision machining company specializing in the Oil & Gas industry in the Pearland area. Apply today if you meet the qualifications ...

Openwork

CNC Operator (Weekday Nights)

Houston, TX

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Openwork is engaged in a search for a WeekdayNights CNC Operator for precision machining company specializing in the Oil & Gas industry in the Pearland area. Apply today if you meet the ...

Offshore CNC LLC

Machinist

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

Knowledge of CNC machine setup and operation * Ability to edit CNC programs * Ability to read and ... Ability to exercise good judgment and situational awareness while operating machinery * Applies ...

SCHUFF STEEL CO

Heavy Machine Operator (A)

Humble, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

  • Medical

Critical to the field of forming material by operation of CNC machines and equipment such as Plasma Arc, NC Punch Plasma, Beam Line Machine, Beam Punch Operator and NC Angle Master. Also operates ...

DBM GLOBAL INC

Heavy Machine Operator (A)

Humble, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

  • Medical

Critical to the field of forming material by operation of CNC machines and equipment such as Plasma Arc, NC Punch Plasma, Beam Line Machine, Beam Punch Operator and NC Angle Master. Also operates ...

Schuff Steel

Heavy Machine Operator (A)

Humble, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

  • Medical

Critical to the field of forming material by operation of CNC machines and equipment such as Plasma Arc, NC Punch Plasma, Beam Line Machine, Beam Punch Operator and NC Angle Master. Also operates ...

LPC Personnel, Inc

Thread Machine Operator

Houston, TX

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Previous experience operating thread machines, CNC equipment, lathes, or similar manufacturing machinery preferred * Mechanical or manufacturing experience is a plus * Experience with threading ...

NOV, Inc.

Machine Operator (Days)

Conroe, TX

$18.25 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to pass a drug screen & background check. * 2+ years of CNC mill or lathe experience ... Machines. * Load parts utilizing overhead lifting equipment, proving tapes, operating controls ...

National Oilwell Varco

Machine Operator (Days)

Conroe, TX

$18.25 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to pass a drug screen & background check. * 2+ years of CNC mill or lathe experience ... Machines. * Load parts utilizing overhead lifting equipment, proving tapes, operating controls ...

Savard Group

Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.50/hr

MACHINE OPERATORS NEEDED - MULTIPLE SHIFTS AVAILABLE Join SAVARD Personnel Group and be part of a ... Recent graduates and entry-level candidates looking to start a career in manufacturing are ...

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Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

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How much do entry level cnc machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cnc machine operator in Houston, TX is $16.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level CNC machine operator?

Entry Level CNC Machine Operators are individuals who operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines, typically in manufacturing or production settings, with little to no prior experience. Their primary responsibilities include setting up machines, loading materials, monitoring operations, and ensuring that finished products meet quality standards. They may also perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting under supervision. This role is ideal for those starting a career in manufacturing, as it often provides on-the-job training and opportunities for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level CNC machine operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level CNC Machine Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC machinery, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and often safety certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure precise manufacturing, safe operation, and consistent product quality in a production environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level CNC machine operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level CNC machine operators often face challenges such as learning to interpret technical blueprints, understanding machine controls, and maintaining precision under time constraints. These challenges can be overcome by actively seeking mentorship from experienced operators, participating in on-the-job training, and practicing attention to detail during each setup. Additionally, good communication with team members and supervisors helps clarify instructions and expectations, making it easier to adapt and improve performance in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator vs Cnc Machinist?

AspectEntry Level Cnc Machine OperatorCnc Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic trainingTechnical training or apprenticeship; some certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production floorsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up and operate CNC machines, monitor productionProgram, set up, and troubleshoot CNC machines, perform maintenance

While both roles involve working with CNC machines, entry level CNC machine operators focus on basic operation and monitoring, whereas CNC machinists handle programming and maintenance tasks. The former is ideal for those starting in manufacturing, while the latter requires more technical skills and experience.

Is there a demand for entry level CNC machine operators?

There is steady demand for entry-level CNC machine operators due to ongoing manufacturing needs and automation growth. Employers seek candidates with basic technical skills, familiarity with CNC programming, and the ability to operate and troubleshoot machines, often requiring relevant certifications or training. Job opportunities are expected to remain stable as industries continue to rely on precision machining and manufacturing processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Cnc Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator job openings:

Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,675 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

CNC Machinist - Operator/Programmer

Smiths Group

Pasadena, TX • On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description
John Crane, a business of Smiths Group, is a global leader in mission-critical flow control solutions for energy and process industries that enable efficient and sustainable operations. Our products include mechanical seals and systems, couplings, bearings, filtration systems, and predictive digital monitoring technologies.
We have a global network of more than 200 sites in over 50 countries and employ more than 6,000 people worldwide. We partner with our customers to help them keep their operations safe, reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and meet the latest environmental standards.
John Crane is part of Smiths Group. For over 170 years, Smiths has been pioneering progress by engineering for a better future. We serve millions of people every year, helping to create a safer, more efficient, productive, and better-connected world across four global markets: energy, security & defence, space & aerospace, and general industrial. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Smiths employs approximately 16,000 colleagues in over 50 countries.
Job Description
Must have previous CNC machining experience.
One Day and one Evening slot is available.
Day Shift (Hours: Mon - Thurs from 5a - 5p) and Evening Shift (Mon - Thurs from 5p - 5a) available.
Day shift prefers someone with experience on Mazak lathe (exp. on Haas and DMG lathe is a plus).
Evening shift prefers someone with experience on Mazak mill (exp. on Integrex and Haas mill is a plus).
Sets up, writes programs and edits existing programs, and operates numerically controlled machinery. These include but are not limited to lathes, mills, drills, and other machinery as required.
  • Maintains quality and tolerances within .0003".
  • Follow written and verbal procedures for machining and other duties.
  • Work from work order routings, prints, sketches, layout sheets, written and verbal instructions.
  • Working knowledge of programming languages and the ability to learn / adapt per machine.
  • Must be able to recognize and understand functions of machine parameters with the ability to modify as required per supervisor's instructions.
  • Utilize knowledge of working properties for a variety of materials such as stainless steel, alloy steel, cast iron, brass, exotics, etc.
  • Presets tools and may be required to re-sharpen.
  • Inspect work produced using micrometer; bore gage, venire calipers, or other measuring instruments to verify conformance to specifications.
  • Follow preventative maintenance procedures on equipment as prescribed by supervisor and report operating difficulties of equipment to supervisor.
  • Perform duties in accordance with company safety policies, reports unsafe conditions to supervisor.
  • Make proper labor and time reports.
  • Perform other duties as required.
  • Keep machine(s) / work area clean and orderly.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities based upon individual branch requirements.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent with a technical school education and working machinist knowledge or equivalent.
  • Minimum 3 years of CNC machine tool Programming & Operating experience.
  • Numerical control machining skills experience and ability to read and interpret work related machine drawings.
  • Make average to complicated mathematical calculations and resolve elementary technical problems.
  • CNC Programmer/Operator will be compensated in accordance with defined expertise, experience and production efficiency.
  • Can operate a minimum of 2 CNC machine tools.
  • Possesses previous experience as a Manual machinist.
  • Must be detail oriented; be able to work independently using sound judgment.
  • Good verbal, written, problem solving and organization skills required.
  • Capable of handling multiple priorities.
  • Ability to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner.

Additional Information
With colleagues stretching across the globe, we are proud of our diversity. To foster inclusivity, we run employee resource groups (ERG's) to provide a safe space for employees to connect and support each other. Our cross-business ERGs include Veterans, Pride Network, Black Employee Network, Women@Work Network, and Neurodiversity.
Across our company, we recognize excellence, culminating in the Smiths Excellence Awards, our annual celebration of the most extraordinary activities, people, and projects that best showcase our strengths and help drive our business forward. We announce these on our annual Smiths Day, a global celebration of Smiths around our network.
Join us for a great career with competitive compensation and benefits, while helping engineer a better future.
We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.
At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation - including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career's website (Careers - Smiths Group plc)

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