Entry Level Textile Cutting Machine Operator Jobs

The Cutting Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring automated cutting systems to accurately process a wide range of materials. This role ensures precision cutting, creasing, milling, and finishing using the machine's multi-tool cutting heads, vision systems, and video-projection technologies. The operator works closely with production, quality, and maintenance teams to meet daily output goals.

• Machine Setup & Operation:
  1. Set up and operate cutting systems equipped with multi-tool heads.
  2. Use the machine's vision technology to auto-recognize printed images and reference points. 
  3. Utilize the video-projection system for nesting and material optimization.
  4. Load various materials such as foam, composites, plastics, corrugated, and textiles.
  5. Adjust cutting parameters, vacuum zones, and tool settings.
• Quality Control:
  1. Perform dimensional checks and verify accuracy of cuts.
  2. Inspect edges, creases, milling finishes, and overall quality.
  3. Use measuring tools such as calipers, rulers, and gauges.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
  1. Clean and maintain blades, milling modules, and vacuum areas.
  2. Remove blockages and perform basic mechanical troubleshooting. 
  3. Report advanced mechanical or software issues.
• Software Use & Job Management:
  1. Use cutting machine software for job setup.
  2. Import cutting files and verify alignment with output.
  3. Document production data and manage job queues.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow safety procedures for operating cutting heads, mills, and pneumatic tools.
• Ensure compliance with machine safety sensors and emergency stop devices.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

• This position does not have any direct reports. 

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 1-3 years of digital cutting, machine operation, or manufacturing experience. 
• Other skills required: 
  • Experience operating automated cutting systems.
  • Knowledge of multi-tool cutting operations including oscillating blades and milling.
  • Ability to interpret drawings, patterns, and digital cutting files.
  • Must be able to read a tape measure.
  • Strong understanding of both imperial and metric measurements with the ability to convert between both. 
  • Strong attention to detail and quality.
  • Aptitude for math and general mechanical ability.
  • Ability to work and communicate well with others. 
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the duties and responsibilities. 

This position will be located in a production shop floor environment and is required to work a rotational 12-hour shift schedule or other designated shift hours. Overtime may also be required based on business conditions. While performing the duties of this job, the noise level in the work environment is moderate with occasional loud noise. Frequently required to talk, hear, walk, sit, and stand. Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl. Continually works near moving mechanical parts and may occasionally be exposed to fumes, airborne particles or toxic chemicals. Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 

• Perform job functions in a safe manner.
• Wear all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required by Company policy for the job being performed.
• Know and follow established job-specific and facility wide safety and health procedures and rules.
• Actively participate in safety and health training and demonstrate competency based on training received. 
• Brings safety and health issues, unsafe acts, and safety suggestions to management’s attention or correct those you can upon observation.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. They may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. 

• Multiple benefit plans to choose from based on you and/or your family’s needs, beginning the 1st of the month following date of hire.
• 401(k) eligibility after 90 days.
• Vacation and Holiday pay
• Training opportunities
• And much more! 

TeMa North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer.