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Freelance Cnc Router Programmer Jobs in Lake Zurich, IL

CNC Programmer

Elk Grove Village, IL ยท On-site

$26.25 - $35.75/hr

Maintain traceability in routers, inspection plans, production logs, and the ERP system in accordance with AS9100 and ITAR requirements CNC Programmer | What You Bring * Minimum 3 years of CNC setup ...

CNC Programmer

Wood Dale, IL ยท On-site

$27.10 - $34/hr

POSITION REQUIREMENTS โ€ข Associate's degree in CNC programming or related field preferred. โ€ข 2-5 years of CNC programming experience. โ€ข Experience with mills, lathes, and routers. โ€ข Ability to ...

New

CNC Programmer

Wood Dale, IL ยท On-site

$27.10 - $34/hr

POSITION REQUIREMENTS โ€ข Associate's degree in CNC programming or related field preferred. โ€ข 2-5 years of CNC programming experience. โ€ข Experience with mills, lathes, and routers. โ€ข Ability to ...

New

POSITION REQUIREMENTS โ€ข Associate's degree in CNC programming or related field preferred. โ€ข 2-5 years of CNC programming experience. โ€ข Experience with mills, lathes, and routers. โ€ข Ability to ...

New

CNC Mill / Set Up

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

A trusted customthermal solutions supplier and engineering design partner for customers acrossa ... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ...

CNC Mill Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Mill Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Lathe Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Lathe Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Mill Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Lathe Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Lathe Machinist

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

... routers & blueprints. * Set-up close tolerance and conventional equipment by studying drawings ... CNC Programming * CNC Machine Installation * G-Code * M-Code * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

CNC Setup Specialist

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Proficiency in reading blueprints, engineering drawings, and job routers. Familiar with fixtures. * Tools: Expertise with precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, gauges). * Knowledge:

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Freelance Cnc Router Programmer information

See Lake Zurich, IL salary details

$17

$31

$45

How much do freelance cnc router programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance cnc router programmer in Lake Zurich, IL is $31.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.91 and $35.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance CNC router programmer do?

A Freelance CNC Router Programmer creates and optimizes programs that control CNC (computer numerical control) routers used in manufacturing and fabrication. They interpret design blueprints or CAD files to develop tool paths and instructions for cutting, carving, or shaping materials like wood, plastic, or metal. Working independently, they may collaborate with clients to customize designs, troubleshoot issues, and ensure efficient machine operation. These professionals are skilled in CAD/CAM software and understand both programming and machining processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance CNC router programmer?

To thrive as a Freelance CNC Router Programmer, you need expertise in CNC programming, knowledge of machining processes, and proficiency in reading technical drawings, often supported by experience or a relevant certification in CNC operations. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software (such as Fusion 360 or Mastercam) and the ability to operate and troubleshoot CNC routers are essential technical competencies. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate, efficient production, minimize errors, and help maintain strong client relationships in a competitive freelance environment.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance CNC router programmers, and how can they be managed?

Freelance CNC router programmers often encounter challenges such as interpreting diverse client specifications, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring compatibility with various machine types and software. To manage these, it's important to establish clear communication with clients, set realistic timelines, and stay updated on different CAD/CAM software platforms. Building a strong portfolio and network can also help secure repeat business and referrals, making it easier to navigate fluctuations in workload.

What is the difference between Freelance Cnc Router Programmer vs Cnc Machine Operator?

AspectFreelance Cnc Router ProgrammerCnc Machine Operator
CredentialsTechnical skills, CAD/CAM software knowledgeBasic machine operation training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, client sites, workshopsManufacturing facilities, factories
Industry UsageDesign, prototyping, custom fabricationMass production, routine operation
Search/Comparison IntentDesign, programming, freelance workOperation, manufacturing, employment

Freelance Cnc Router Programmers focus on designing and programming CNC routers for custom projects, often working independently. Cnc Machine Operators handle the day-to-day operation of CNC machines in manufacturing settings. While both roles require technical knowledge, programmers emphasize software skills and design, whereas operators focus on machine handling and safety.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Cnc Router Programmer jobs in Lake Zurich, IL?

For Freelance Cnc Router Programmer jobs in Lake Zurich, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Cnc Router Programmer jobs in Lake Zurich, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Cnc Router Programmer jobs in Lake Zurich, IL are:

What cities near Lake Zurich, IL are hiring for Freelance Cnc Router Programmer jobs?

Cities near Lake Zurich, IL with the most Freelance Cnc Router Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Cnc Router Programmer job openings in Lake Zurich, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,541 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

CNC Programmer

Elk Grove Village, IL โ€ข On-site

$26.25 - $35.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

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


Job description

Join our team as the CNC Programmer and take full ownership of developing safe, repeatable, and efficient CNC manufacturing processes for precision components. Reporting to the engineering and operations leadership team, you will translate customer drawings and CAD models into production-ready programs and processes, and set the standard that drives quality, delivery, and process capability across a high-mix precision machining environment.

This role is ideal for a hands-on CNC programmer who has experience in multi-axis milling or CNC turning within a precision, regulated manufacturing environment, and who wants to work on technically demanding aerospace, medical, and defense components, as well as long-term career growth with a stable and expanding company.

CNC Programmer | What You Will Do
  • Develop and prove out CNC programs using CAD/CAM platforms including Mastercam, NX/Unigraphics, Esprit, or SolidWorks
  • Sequence operations, select tooling and workholding, establish speeds and feeds, and design or support fixtures for new and repeat jobs
  • Interpret complex customer drawings, GD&T requirements, specifications, and control plans to build complete machining methods
  • Collaborate with Quality to obtain first-piece approval and establish in-process inspection requirements
  • Troubleshoot machining, tooling, dimensional, and cycle-time issues alongside setup personnel, operators, and engineering
  • Train and mentor setup personnel and operators on approved production methods, inspection requirements, and documentation
  • Maintain traceability in routers, inspection plans, production logs, and the ERP system in accordance with AS9100 and ITAR requirements
CNC Programmer | What You Bring
  • Minimum 3 years of CNC setup and operation experience and minimum 1 year of CNC programming experience, or equivalent demonstrated capability
  • Proficiency with at least one CAD/CAM platform โ€” Mastercam, NX/Unigraphics, Esprit, SolidWorks, or comparable
  • Multi-axis milling or CNC turning experience in a precision manufacturing environment
  • Strong working knowledge of tooling, workholding, speeds and feeds, process sequencing, and first-piece prove-out
  • Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and apply GD&T to machining and inspection requirements
  • Commitment to FOD prevention, safety, QMS compliance, and working within an AS9100-certified and ITAR-registered environment
CNC Programmer | The Perks
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off
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