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Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator Jobs in Kennewick, WA

Material Processing Operator

Richland, WA ยท On-site

$20 - $29.61/hr

Although this is an entry level position, there is much opportunity for growth and advancement. As ... To process material, employees must operate industrial machinery and equipment, industrial mobile ...

Patient Care Coordinator

Pasco, WA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

A Patient Care Coordinator is an entry-level office role that is responsible for maintaining ... This is a full-time position operating within normal business hours Monday through Friday, with an ...

Patient Care Coordinator

Pasco, WA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

A Patient Care Coordinator is an entry-level office role that is responsible for maintaining ... This is a full-time position operating within normal business hours Monday through Friday, with an ...

Inspect company vehicle for visual and operating defects; responsible for completing a daily ... Senior Truck Driver will participate in the training of entry level Truck Drivers; and provides ...

Inspect company vehicle for visual and operating defects; responsible for completing a daily ... Senior Truck Driver will participate in the training of entry level Truck Drivers; and provides ...

Branch Driver

Hermiston, OR ยท On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

Inspect company vehicle for visual and operating defects; responsible for completing a daily ... Senior Truck Driver will participate in the training of entry level Truck Drivers; and provides ...

Inspect company vehicle for visual and operating defects; responsible for completing a daily ... Senior Truck Driver will participate in the training of entry level Truck Drivers; and provides ...

Branch Driver

Hermiston, OR ยท On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

Inspect company vehicle for visual and operating defects; responsible for completing a daily ... Senior Truck Driver will participate in the training of entry level Truck Drivers; and provides ...

Branch Driver

Hermiston, OR ยท On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

Inspect company vehicle for visual and operating defects; responsible for completing a daily ... Senior Truck Driver will participate in the training of entry level Truck Drivers; and provides ...

Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator information

See Kennewick, WA salary details

$12

$17

$21

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

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cnc machine operator in Kennewick, WA is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 automation technology.

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.

How to get into entry level CNC machine operation with no experience?

Entry level CNC machine operators typically start by gaining basic knowledge of machining processes, which can be achieved through vocational training, community college courses, or online tutorials. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software, along with a willingness to learn on the job, can improve chances of employment; some employers also offer on-the-job training for candidates with a strong work ethic and mechanical aptitude.

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.

How much is an entry level CNC machine operator?

Entry-level CNC machine operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, industry, and company. Starting salaries may increase with basic certifications, familiarity with CNC programming, and experience operating different machine tools.
What cities near Kennewick, WA are hiring for Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Kennewick, WA with the most Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cnc Machine Operator job openings in Kennewick, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,816 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Transition Operator (Speedweigher)

Next Gen Alloys

Richland, WA โ€ข On-site

$22.83 - $33.58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Proven to Perform.
From the edges of space to the bottoms of ocean, our materials are proven to perform -- and so is our team. We're hiring high performers as proven as our products. Join us.

ATI is seeking an entry level Transition Operator to join our Richland, Washington facility. Our Richland Operation specializes in melting Titanium and Titanium Alloys to produce ingots for use in multiple applications in the Aerospace and Medical Markets. This position works a rotating shift consisting of 12.25 hours daily (overtime paid after 8 hours of each shift). Shifts rotate weekly from days to nights and hours are 5:45 am - 6:00 pm and/or 5:45 pm - 6:00 am.

Our entry level Transition Operator's primary job duties will be to run and maintain our Speedweigh and Puck Press system, Lab duties (consisting of retrieving heat samples and prep for analysis) and conduct furnace turnaround preparation duties. Employees in this position must operate industrial machinery and equipment, industrial mobile equipment (IME). The Transition Operator must also pay close attention to detail and stay organized to ensure accuracy and have basic math and computer skills. Additional duties for a Transition Operator include operating overhead cranes to loading material into the furnace, pull ingots from the furnace, weigh and sort material for material production processes and process ingots for shipping. Safety is the company's top priority and you will be expected to adhere to a strict zero injury safety culture.

In order to become successful, you'll need to be able to maintain a high attention to detail, have experience operating IME equipment such as fork lifts and sweepers, have a basic mechanical skills, and be able to work in hot and cold conditions. An effective Transition Operator will be comfortable using basic hand tools and getting their hands dirty on the floor. In addition, you will be able to work well and communicate with all types of personalities as you are part of a highly skilled team that is critical in supporting production in order to consistently meet production goals and our customers' needs.
Additional Duties:
Sort, mark, and store materials.
Forklift operation including various sizes of forklifts, including rotating masts.
Operate various industrial equipment and/or machinery including shears, shot blasters and twin cone blenders
Basic MIG welding.
Data entry/inventory tracking using a computerized data system and filling out blend paperwork.

Sand and wet blasting
Operate scales to ensure accurate material weights.
Load material into the furnace using overhead cranes.
Remove ingots from the furnace using overhead cranes
Hazardous material processing.
Use tote dumpers to load material
Shop cleaning duties as assigned including sweeping, organizing, cleaning surfaces, etc.
Safety observations and various safety trainings; daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annually.

Basic Qualifications
High school diploma or G.E.D.
1 year of industrial, manufacturing, or processing work experience.
Preferred Qualifications
2 year or technical/trade school degree.
Previous welding school and/or experience.
Previous experience in the metals industry.
Previous experience operating Industrial Mobile Equipment (IME), especially forklift.
Previous machine operation experience.
Previous experience operating an industrial furnace.

We thrive when the expectations are great, and the barriers are high. We're solving the world's most difficult challenges through materials science. Our advanced, integrated process technologies and proven performers give us a tremendous competitive advantage. When customers systems need to fly higher, dig deeper, stand stronger, and last longer -- anywhere on, above or below the earth -- ATI is proven to perform.

ATI has a Total Rewards package to attract and retain top talent. As part of our Total Rewards package, we offer a competitive base pay with variable additional compensation opportunities. This includes:

  • A top 401K plan, including company match
  • Health insurance (medical, dental, vision), life insurance, short and long-term disability, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Programs
  • 15 vacation days, along with 12 paid holidays
  • Performance bonus
  • Optional employee paid programs such as Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Pet Insurance

Our Total Rewards program and options available to an employee may vary depending on multiple factors, including location and hire date.Hourly pay ratesare based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Hourly pay rate: $22.83 / Hour - $33.58 / Hour

*It is ATI's policy to not provide immigration sponsorship for any of the company's positions.

Due to the nature of its operations, including certain federal government contracts, ATI Specialty Alloys & Components must track -- and in some cases limit employment opportunity based on -- citizenship or immigration status.
ATI and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected be federal or state law. The company will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process if so requested.