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Milling Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... operating a wide variety of machine tools, setup grinders, lathes, mills and other equipment as ... Responsibilities: * Operates and maintains lathe and milling machines. * Reviews drawings ...

Tooling Machinist 2nd Shift

Franklin, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

/ Summary Responsible for operating machine tools to produce precision metal parts in both small ... Operates machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, CNC equipment, and grinders to manufacture ...

Cnc Machinist

Columbia, TN · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... operating CNC machinery. The ideal candidate will have the ability to set up and operate CNC Mills, lathes, and vertical milling machines, with experience in HAAS and Okuma machines being a plus.

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CNC Machinist

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$23 - $32/hr

We are seeking CNC Machinist Operators for multiple openings across all three shifts, featuring ... High school diploma or GED required * 2+ years of CNC machining experience (milling, turning, or ...

Machinist

Oak Ridge, TN

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... operating a variety of precision machines-and you'll play a key part in building high-quality ... Set up and operate lathes, grinders, milling machines, and other precision tools to verify ...

Machinist

Oak Ridge, TN

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

... operating a variety of precision machines-and you'll play a key part in building high-quality ... Set up and operate lathes, grinders, milling machines, and other precision tools to verify ...

Machinist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... operating a variety of precision machines-and you'll play a key part in building high-quality ... Set up and operate lathes, grinders, milling machines, and other precision tools to verify ...

Machinist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... operating a variety of precision machines-and you'll play a key part in building highquality ... Set up and operate lathes, grinders, milling machines, and other precision tools to verify ...

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Milling Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do milling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for milling machine operator in Tennessee is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Milling Machine Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Milling Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, blueprint reading, and measurement techniques, often acquired through vocational training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC controls, digital measuring devices, and precision machining tools is essential, and some positions may require certification such as NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills). Attention to detail, problem-solving, and solid teamwork and communication skills help operators excel. These qualities ensure the accurate production of machined parts, workplace safety, and smooth collaboration with production teams.

What is a Milling Machine Operator job?

A Milling Machine Operator sets up, operates, and maintains milling machines used to shape metal, plastic, or other materials. They read blueprints, adjust machine settings, and monitor the milling process to ensure precision and quality. Operators may also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to keep machines running efficiently. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and a strong understanding of machining principles.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a Milling Machine Operator?

As a Milling Machine Operator, your day will often start with reviewing blueprints and job orders to determine machining requirements. You’ll be responsible for setting up and calibrating mills, selecting appropriate tools, loading materials, and monitoring the machine throughout the production cycle to ensure parts meet precise specifications. Regular quality checks with measuring tools, performing routine maintenance, and logging production data are also part of the job. In many facilities, operators work closely with quality inspectors, engineers, and other team members to troubleshoot issues and maintain workflow. This hands-on role offers variety and the opportunity to contribute directly to the manufacturing process.

How much do CNC operators make?

CNC machine operators, including milling machine operators, typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $25, which translates to approximately $40,000 to $52,000 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the machinery operated.

What is the highest paying machining job?

The highest paying machining jobs often include CNC machining supervisor, manufacturing engineer, or precision machining specialist, with salaries increasing for those with advanced skills, certifications, and experience. Roles involving complex programming, high-precision work, or leadership responsibilities tend to offer higher compensation in the machining field.

How much do CNC operators earn?

CNC machine operators typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM software may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators or those working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing with advanced equipment. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher salaries compared to standard machine operator positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Milling Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Milling Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Milling Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Milling Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Milling Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Milling Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Milling Machine Operator jobs in TN? For Milling Machine Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

High Performance Cell Technician

Jeffrey Chain

Morristown, TN • On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Summary of Job

This role is responsible for setting up and operating the machines within our High Performance Cell. The equipment includes a Swiss style turning center, a 4 station rotary cutting and end work machine, and a 10 station rotary turning / milling machine. With the complex nature of product manufactured in the CNC department, set up and related tooling is a critical part of the process. The change would create a new role to use our best and most motivated people to focus on troubleshooting and machine set up thus allowing operators to concentrate on increasing output and achieving quality standards.

This role would have close relationship with CNC programmers, tooling vendors, and operators.

Function & Scope of Responsibility

• Pre stage tooling ahead of machines running out current job.

• Support pre staging of materials in coordination with operator, programmer and Area Lead.

• Responsible for safe setting of all equipment and relevant tooling in the HPC work center

• Responsible for safe setting of all equipment and relevant tooling in the HPC work center

• Support training of production operators in safe and efficient operation of machines

• Take an active role in suggesting improvements to the process with regards to SMED and throughput, and standardizing machine practices

• Support improvement in 5S standards in the area especially around tooling storage and staging.

• Support DVC and cost reduction initiatives

• Participate in testing of inserts, tooling, and materials

• Responsible for reviewing tooling prior to put away

• Follows all departmental and company safety rules / procedures.

• Receives instructions, material requirements, prints, routings, and work orders for the job.

• Conveys supervisor’s instructions to operators or provides direction in the absence of the supervisor

• Works with direct and indirect labor personnel to ensure raw materials, parts, and tooling are available and staged to maintain an uninterrupted flow of production.

• Works with machine operators to provide operational and troubleshooting assistance.

• Sets up and operates equipment as required.

• Proficient in the use of measuring instruments, i.e., scales, calipers, and micrometers.

• Performs inspection to assure product meets quality standards.

• Recognizes non-conforming product, worn tooling, and machine conditions.

• Completes and forwards required paperwork and records.

• Attends meetings as required.

• Reports progress / status to supervisor

• Maintains work area in a neat and orderly condition.

• Performs other miscellaneous duties as assigned by the supervisor

Authority/Decision Making

This role will serve as technical for the HPC work center and CNC department, assisting in machine set ups, troubleshooting, and personnel training. Low level decision making required in regards to general machining and optimization of work cell flow.

Skills, Knowledge, Experience Required

• Ability to read and understand engineering drawings and set up sheets.

• Ability to set and adjust tooling and inserts

• Previous technical skills in a similar role.

• Competent with measuring equipment to include calipers, micrometers, gage blocks and height gages.

• Experienced working with complex automation and/or robotics, swiss turn lathe, rotary machining centers, and CNC machines

• Ability to read, edit, and optimize programs

• Understanding of general machining optimization including but not limited to, tool life, cycle time, etc

Education or Professional Qualifications -

• HS Diploma or equivalent

• 2 years set up experience

Other Requirements/ Comments

• Must be prepared to be flexible with working hours and shift patterns to support the business needs.

• Experience with continuous improvement projects such as Lean Six Sigma, Kaizan, and/or 5S is preferred

• Prior overhead crane and safe material handling experience a plus

• Must be able to work in manufacturing setting around loud noises, extreme temperatures, or other



Sunday - Tuesday with every other Wednesday AM or PM shift
Thursday - Saturday with every other Wednesday AM or PM shift
Shifts are 12 hour shifts
6am - 6:30pm
6pm - 6:30am