ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Cnc Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Double E Group

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Neenah, WI · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, The Sr. Design Engineer is the technical owner of our major ... Deep understanding of fabrication methods (CNC machining, sand casting, injection molding etc.

All JobsCnc JobsSenior Cnc JobsSenior Cnc Jobs in Appleton, WI

Senior Cnc information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$24.4K

$78.3K

$159.5K

How much do senior cnc jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior cnc in Appleton, WI is $78,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can a CNC machinist make 100k a year?

Senior CNC machinists can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and experience working in high-demand industries or at companies with premium pay scales. Factors such as location, specialization, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

What is the highest paid CNC machinist?

The highest paid CNC machinists typically earn over $70,000 annually, with top earners in specialized industries or with advanced certifications reaching salaries above $80,000. Factors such as experience, skill level, certifications, and working in high-demand sectors influence compensation.

What are Senior CNC Operators?

Senior CNC Operators are experienced professionals who program, set up, and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines to manufacture precision parts and components. They are responsible for interpreting technical drawings, selecting appropriate tools, ensuring machine calibration, and performing quality checks. Senior CNC Operators often mentor junior staff, troubleshoot complex machining issues, and contribute to process improvements in the manufacturing workflow. Their expertise helps maintain efficiency, accuracy, and safety in production environments.

What is the difference between Senior Cnc vs Cnc Operator?

AspectSenior CncCnc Operator
CredentialsTypically requires advanced certifications, experience, and sometimes supervisory trainingRequires basic CNC machining certifications and on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, troubleshooting, and overseeing CNC machinesOperating CNC machines to produce parts according to specifications
ResponsibilitiesComplex programming, quality control, mentoring junior staffSetting up and running CNC machines, monitoring production

In summary, Senior Cnc professionals have advanced skills in programming and overseeing CNC operations, while Cnc Operators focus on running machines and producing parts. The senior role involves more technical expertise and leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior CNC Machinist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior CNC Machinist, you need advanced machining skills, strong knowledge of CNC programming, blueprint reading, and typically a technical diploma or significant hands-on experience. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, G-code, and modern CNC machinery, as well as relevant certifications like NIMS, are commonly expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure quality output and smooth workflow in team settings. These competencies are essential for producing precise components efficiently, minimizing errors, and maintaining high safety and quality standards in manufacturing.

What is the highest salary of a CNC operator?

The highest salary for a CNC operator can reach around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, especially for those with advanced skills, certifications, or experience working with complex machinery. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with senior roles or those in high-demand areas earning the most.

What are some common challenges faced by a Senior CNC Machinist and how can they be managed?

Senior CNC Machinists often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances on complex parts, troubleshooting machine errors, and adapting to new software or equipment upgrades. Effective communication with engineering and quality teams is essential for resolving production issues quickly. Staying current with training and industry best practices helps in managing evolving technologies, while strong organizational skills aid in multitasking and prioritizing urgent projects. Proactively addressing these challenges leads to smoother operations and professional growth.

How much does Lockheed Martin pay a CNC machinist?

Lockheed Martin CNC machinists typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and location. The role often requires proficiency with CNC programming and machine operation in a manufacturing or aerospace environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Cnc jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Cnc jobs in Appleton, WI? For Senior Cnc jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Cnc jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Cnc jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Senior Cnc jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Senior Cnc job openings:
Senior Cnc jobs near you

Senior CNC Machinist / Programmer - 2nd Shift (GibbsCAM)

Ravelin Defense

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$40.88 - $44.98/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

At a glance

Company: Ravelin Defense
Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin
Base Pay: $35.88–$39.98/hr
Shift Premium: Additional $5.00/hr
Total Hourly Pay: $40.88–$44.98/hr
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: 2nd Shift | Monday–Thursday, 3:30 PM–3:00 AM
Experience: Advanced CNC setup and programming experience
Machines: CNC mills • CNC lathes • Large bridge mills • Horizontal boring mills
CAM Software: GibbsCAM preferred

Why join Ravelin Defense?

This position is for an experienced machinist who can take ownership of difficult work—not someone who needs every step mapped out for them.

Ravelin Defense’s Green Bay operation machines large, complex components and weldments used in mission-critical defense applications. As a Level III Machinist, you’ll be expected to set up and program challenging jobs, use probing systems, troubleshoot programming and machining problems, and recommend practical solutions when the original process is not working.

You’ll be joining a defense manufacturer with substantial machining, fabrication, welding, and engineering capabilities. Ravelin supports major military programs and customers including the U.S. Department of Defense, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems.

The company also uses a formal skills matrix. You’ll meet with your manager monthly to review your capabilities, identify any gaps, and understand what is required to advance toward the Lead Machinist pay level.

⚙️ What you'll be doing

  • Set up, program, and operate CNC machining equipment
  • Program large, complex components and fabricated weldments
  • Create, edit, and troubleshoot programs using GibbsCAM and G-code
  • Work across different CNC machines and control platforms
  • Select tooling, fixtures, cutting parameters, and machining strategies
  • Set work offsets and use probing systems
  • Interpret complex blueprints, drawings, and specifications
  • Establish and verify workholding for large components
  • Inspect machined features using precision measuring equipment
  • Diagnose programming, tooling, setup, and machining problems
  • Recommend alternative methods when a process or setup is not working
  • Identify and document nonconforming components
  • Provide technical support and guidance to other machinists
  • Work with programming, quality, engineering, and production teams
  • Maintain accurate job-time and production records

️ Machines, controls & software

Ravelin Defense’s Green Bay machining capabilities include:

  • Feeler bridge mills
  • VisionWide bridge mills
  • Toshiba horizontal boring mills
  • Haas CNC vertical mills
  • Haas CNC turning equipment
  • Large-format CNC machining equipment
  • Multiple CNC control platforms
  • GibbsCAM
  • G-code programming
  • Machine probing systems
  • Calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision inspection tools

The ideal candidate is comfortable adapting across different machines and controls rather than being limited to one equipment brand.

⭐ Shop highlights

  • $40.88–$44.98/hour including shift premium
  • Four-day Monday–Thursday schedule
  • Large-part and large-weldment machining
  • Complex defense manufacturing work
  • Substantial in-house machining and fabrication capabilities
  • Opportunity to solve difficult setup and programming problems
  • Defined path toward Lead Machinist
  • Monthly skills-matrix and advancement reviews
  • Work supporting major U.S. military platforms
  • AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified organization

✅ What we're looking for

Required

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Advanced CNC setup and machining experience
  • Ability to program complex parts and large weldments
  • Strong blueprint and technical-drawing interpretation skills
  • Ability to independently select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies
  • Experience setting tooling and work offsets
  • Experience using machine probing systems
  • Ability to troubleshoot CNC programs and machining processes
  • Ability to recommend practical solutions or alternative processes
  • Ability to use precision measuring instruments
  • Willingness to work the full second-shift schedule

Preferred

  • GibbsCAM or Virtual Gibbs programming experience
  • Experience operating multiple CNC controls
  • Large bridge mill or horizontal boring mill experience
  • Large-part or fabricated-weldment machining experience
  • G-code programming proficiency
  • Experience supporting or mentoring less-experienced machinists
  • ISO or AS9100 defense manufacturing experience

Why you'll like working here

This role offers advanced machinists challenging work, strong second-shift compensation, and the authority to solve problems instead of simply running an established process.

The skills-matrix structure also makes advancement more transparent. Monthly reviews identify exactly where you stand and what you need to demonstrate to move toward the Lead Machinist level, which has a base pay range of $42.03–$44.08/hour before the second-shift premium.

Pay, benefits & schedule

Level III Base Pay: $35.88–$39.98/hr
Second-Shift Premium: Additional $5.00/hr
Total Pay Range: $40.88–$44.98/hr

Schedule:
Monday–Thursday
3:30 PM–3:00 AM
Full-Time | 2nd Shift

Additional benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.

About Ravelin Defense

Ravelin Defense designs and manufactures armor, survivability systems, precision-machined components, fabricated structures, and advanced defense products. The company was formed through the combination of ArmorWorks Enterprises and Fox Valley Metal Tech.

Its Green Bay operation brings together precision machining, large-scale fabrication, welding, engineering, and prototyping capabilities. The company’s equipment supports both conventional precision machining and the production of large, complex components and weldments.

Ravelin works with the U.S. Department of Defense and major contractors including Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems. Its manufacturing supports Columbia-class submarines, Ford-class aircraft carriers, Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, and other military platforms.

Ravelin operates multiple advanced manufacturing facilities and is AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified, NAVSEA-approved, and ITAR registered.

Apply today

If you can independently program, set up, troubleshoot, and improve complex CNC machining work, apply today through hireCNC.

Apply