Freelance Cnc Router Programmer Jobs in Missouri

Shift/Hours: Monday - Thursday 4pm - 2:30pm (with a shift differential)
Location: Boonville, MO (onsite)
Department: CNC
Reports To: Manufacturing Supervisor
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The CNC Operator attends to CNC machines to perform a variety of related tasks supporting machining operations. This role is responsible for loading, tending, inspecting, adjusting, and maintaining CNC equipment while ensuring safety, quality, and production targets are consistently achieved.

Core Responsibilities

CNC Machine Operation & Production

• Load and tend CNC machines to perform turning, threading, drilling, reaming, boring, and related machining functions.
• Start and observe machine operations to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining.
• Make necessary cutting tool offsets and machine adjustments to maintain part quality.
• Identify and replace broken or worn tools.
• Grind, file, sand, and deburr parts to remove defects and smooth uneven surfaces.
• Meet or exceed predetermined daily, weekly, and monthly production goals.

Quality Inspection & Documentation

• Perform inspection and gauging operations to ensure quality standards and specifications are met.
• Use inspection tools including Micro-Hite, calipers, micrometers, and other gauges.
• Maintain responsibility for visual and physical quality of parts being loaded and unloaded.
• Read blueprints, sketches, drawings, and specifications to determine tolerances and dimensions.
• Complete inspection records and document part quality accurately.

Equipment Maintenance & Workplace Organization

• Perform necessary equipment maintenance including topping off fluids and cleaning machines.
• Maintain an organized and clean work area.
• Move materials as required to support workflow.
• Comply with organizational standards and legal regulations to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.

Safety, Compliance & Professional Conduct

• Follow established safety procedures and wear required PPE in designated areas.
• Respond professionally to process improvements and operational changes.
• Demonstrate manual dexterity and cognitive reasoning to follow production work instructions.
• Perform repetitive tasks while maintaining quality and focus.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Performance is evaluated based on, but not limited to:

• Daily, weekly, and monthly production goal attainment
• Scrap and rework rate
• First-pass quality acceptance
• Tool breakage frequency
• Machine uptime during assigned shift
• Accuracy of inspection documentation
• Audit findings or quality escapes
• Workplace cleanliness and 5S adherence
• Preventive maintenance compliance
• Attendance and schedule adherence
• Safety compliance and incident-free performance

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED
• 1+ years of experience in a manufacturing or machining environment (or equivalent technical training)
• Basic understanding of CNC machining processes and production workflow
• Prior CNC machine operation experience (mills, lathes, or multi-axis machines)
• Experience in metal finishing, deburring, or post-machining polishing
• Familiarity with G-code fundamentals and machine setup concepts
• Experience with production documentation, routers, and inspection records
• Exposure to lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices

Skills & Attributes

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, height gauges such as Micro-Hite)
• Basic computer and math skills, including ability to perform measurements and tolerances
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on quality and precision
• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability
• Manual dexterity and ability to perform repetitive machining and inspection tasks
• Ability to meet production targets in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and accountability
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Requirements

• Must be a US Citizen (ITAR requirements)
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Ability to meet pre-employment screening requirements
• Ability to successfully complete a 90-day probationary period
• Willingness to follow all safety, quality, and manufacturing procedures
• Ability to work assigned shifts, including overtime as needed

Additional Expectations

• Maintain a positive, professional attitude and strong attention to detail
• Follow standardized work instructions and adhere to quality standards
• Willingness to learn machine setups, offsets, and advanced machining techniques
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and efficiency efforts
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, programmers, and quality personnel
• Maintain a clean and organized work area (5S standards)

Working & Physical Requirements

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand for extended periods (8-12 hours per shift)
• Frequent use of hands for operating controls, tools, and measuring instruments
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs (occasionally more with assistance)
• Ability to perform repetitive motions including bending, reaching, and twisting
• Strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills for precision work

Work Environment & PPE

• Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to CNC machinery, moving parts, and moderate to high noise levels
• Exposure to metal shavings, cutting fluids, oils, and industrial lubricants
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe footwear
• Must adhere to all OSHA safety standards and company policies
• Climate may vary depending on facility conditions

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

CMMG provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Candidates must possess proper authorization to work in the United States and, where applicable, be able to possess technical data controlled by the U.S. State Department under the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR) in 22 CFR 120-130, or by the U.S. Commerce Department under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) in 15 CFR chapter VII, subchapter C, Parts 730-774.