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Trainee Cnc Machine Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO

$28 - $43/hr

At least 2 years' experience as a professional CNC machine operator, setting up, and running CNC mills or CNC lathes. * Expertise in Fabrication and Assembly Drawing Preparation for manufacturing ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

At least 2 years' experience as a professional CNC machine operator, setting up, and running CNC mills or CNC lathes. * Expertise in Fabrication and Assembly Drawing Preparation for manufacturing ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO

At least 2 years' experience as a professional CNC machine operator, setting up, and running CNC mills or CNC lathes. * Expertise in Fabrication and Assembly Drawing Preparation for manufacturing ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

At least 2 years' experience as a professional CNC machine operator, setting up, and running CNC mills or CNC lathes. * Expertise in Fabrication and Assembly Drawing Preparation for manufacturing ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Crusoe

CNC Operator

Arvada, CO · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

As a CNC Machine Operator, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily functions of Laser, Punch, and panel bender machines. You will use work orders, drawings, sketches, fabrication standards ...

Crusoe

CNC Operator

Arvada, CO · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

As a CNC Machine Operator, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily functions of Laser, Punch, and panel bender machines. You will use work orders, drawings, sketches, fabrication standards ...

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Trainee Cnc Machine Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do trainee cnc machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee cnc machine operator in Colorado is $24.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $28.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee CNC machine operator?

To thrive as a Trainee CNC Machine Operator, you typically need a basic understanding of machining principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC machinery, blueprint reading, and experience using measurement tools like calipers or micrometers are highly valuable, while some roles may require safety certifications. Attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and willingness to learn are important soft skills for success. These skills ensure precise machine operation, adherence to safety standards, and consistent production quality in manufacturing environments.

What does a trainee CNC machine operator do?

A Trainee CNC Machine Operator learns to set up and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines used for cutting, shaping, and finishing metal or plastic parts. Under supervision, they follow technical drawings, load materials, monitor machine operation, and check finished products for quality. The trainee also assists with basic machine maintenance and learns safety protocols. This entry-level role is focused on developing the skills needed to become a fully qualified CNC Machine Operator.

What are some common challenges faced by a trainee CNC machine operator during the initial months on the job?

As a Trainee CNC Machine Operator, one of the main challenges is learning to interpret technical drawings and translate them into precise machine operations. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and maintaining accuracy while managing multiple machines can also be demanding at first. Additionally, understanding the nuances of various materials and troubleshooting minor equipment issues are skills that develop with hands-on experience and mentorship from senior operators. Regular feedback and practice play a crucial role in overcoming these early hurdles.

What is the difference between Trainee Cnc Machine Operator vs Cnc Machine Operator?

AspectTrainee Cnc Machine OperatorCnc Machine Operator
CertificationsEntry-level training, often no formal certification requiredTypically requires certification or proven experience
Work ExperienceLimited or no prior experience neededPrevious experience or training necessary
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for machine operation
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning machine setup, basic operationSetting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines

The main difference is that a Trainee Cnc Machine Operator is in training with limited experience, focusing on learning the basics, while a Cnc Machine Operator is fully responsible for machine operation with established skills and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Cnc Machine Operator jobs in Colorado? For Trainee Cnc Machine Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Cnc Machine Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Cnc Machine Operator jobs in Colorado are:
Trainee Cnc Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Cnc Machine Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,716 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

CNC Machine Operator

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO

$28 - $43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Location:Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: A minimum of 2 years professional machining experience.
Minimum Education:H.S. Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or Technical Certification is a plus.
Compensation:$28.00-$43.00/hour depending on experience.

Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary:
The Machine Operator will support the development of cutting-edge laser and electro-optical systems. The ideal candidate has at least 2 years professional machining experience but is interested in career broadening opportunities to expand into mechanical design and drafting. Must be comfortable with execution of rapid turn precision machining modifications of existing components and/or fabrication of new components.

All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at:https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.Please review this information before applying.

Responsibilities:
  • Able to effectively manage the schedule and prioritize with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term schedule objectives.
  • Maintain and configure machine shop equipment, including mills, lathes, saws, and metrology tooling.
  • Develop and prove out feeds, speeds, and machining strategies.
  • Maintain a positive attitude, with strong troubleshooting skills and willingness to develop creative solutions to time-sensitive problems.
  • Must be comfortable with execution of rapid turn precision machining modifications of existing components and/or fabrication of new components.
  • Must also be willing to work additional duties related to facility support (clean rooms, high end chillers, generators, occasional simple facility maintenance activities, occasional travel to support testing at customer sites).
Required Experience / Capability:
  • Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship.
  • At least 2 years' experience as a professional CNC machine operator, setting up, and running CNC mills or CNC lathes.
  • Expertise in Fabrication and Assembly Drawing Preparation for manufacturing (ISO and ANSI standards) including experience with version control and change record documentation.
  • Experience with HAAS or FANUC CNC machine controls.
  • Experience manually writing and/or editing G-Code programs.
  • Experience with CAM Software: HSMWorks, Fusion 360 CAM, Mastercam, GibbsCAM, or ESPRIT.
  • Experience with conversational programming: Proto-Trak, HAAS Visual Part Programming System.
  • Experience working in AS9100 or ISO9001 certified manufacturing facility.
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment and maintain composure and good working relationships under pressure.
  • Experience with preventative maintenance on CNC machine tools.
  • Experience with facility maintenance activities.
Benefits Summary:
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 11 paid Holidays
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster:Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources atHR@nlightdefense.com.
Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

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