Freelance Cnc Router Programmer Jobs in Antioch, IL

Position Summary

The CNC Router Operator – Wood is responsible for setting up, operating, and troubleshooting CNC wood routing machines, including Anderson, Thermwood, Rover, and Biesse equipment. This role produces precision-engineered wood components that meet Palmer Hamilton’s quality, safety, and production standards.

The ideal candidate has hands-on CNC routing experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and a passion for accuracy and craftsmanship. This position offers opportunities for growth, cross-training, and advancement within a team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

CNC Setup, Operation & Production

• Set up, operate, and monitor CNC wood routing machines, including Anderson, Thermwood, Rover, and Biesse equipment.
• Load and unload materials safely while ensuring proper fixturing and alignment.
• Troubleshoot machine issues, make program adjustments as needed, and escalate complex problems appropriately.
• Meet or exceed established production rates while maintaining quality and safety standards.
• Accurately track production data, run times, and material usage.

Quality Control & Inspection

• Perform in-process and final inspections to ensure components meet dimensional, finish, and quality requirements.
• Read and interpret blueprints, routers, CAD/CAM outputs, and production documentation.
• Use measuring tools to verify accuracy and identify nonconforming parts.
• Identify and report defects or process issues promptly to supervisors or team leads.

Maintenance & Equipment Care

• Perform routine cleaning, tool changes, and minor preventative maintenance on CNC equipment.
• Ensure tooling, fixtures, and work areas are properly maintained and organized.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to CNC operations and efficiency.

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Collaborate with production teammates to meet workflow demands and production goals.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, programmers, and support departments.
• Participate in training, cross-training, and skill development opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience operating 3-axis CNC routers; wood fabrication experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, routers, and production documents.
• Solid math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1 to 2 years of CNC router machining experience required; wood CNC experience preferred.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials weighing up to 35 pounds regularly.
• Comfort working in a production environment with moving equipment and machinery.

Position Expectations

• Produce consistent, high-quality CNC-routed components.
• Meet production schedules and performance expectations.
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized work areas.
• Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and a strong work ethic.
• Contribute positively to team culture and continuous improvement.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This role requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive motion. The employee must regularly lift and carry materials weighing up to 35 pounds and safely operate CNC routing equipment.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a manufacturing environment. The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, wood particles, temperature variations, and moving machinery. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in accordance with company safety policies.

Why Join Palmer Hamilton?

Palmer Hamilton, LLC offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Employees work with state-of-the-art CNC equipment in a supportive, team-oriented environment where craftsmanship, innovation, and collaboration are valued.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Palmer Hamilton, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.