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Trainee Cnc Router Operator Jobs in Anaheim, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ducommun

CNC Machinist 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Gardena, CA

$21.74 - $25.78/hr

... operating the CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) Multi-Axis machines, Vertical/Gantry/Horizontal rotary (4th) axis mills, CC Lathes/Routers and/or 5 axis Core mills. Who are we? Founded in 1849 ...

Ducommun

CNC Machinist 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Gardena, CA · On-site

$21.74 - $25.78/hr

... operating the CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) Multi-Axis machines, Vertical/Gantry/Horizontal rotary (4th) axis mills, CC Lathes/Routers and/or 5 axis Core mills. Who are we? Founded in 1849 ...

Express Employment Professionals

Be Seen First

CNC Programmer - Setup Machinist (Aerospace)

Carson, CA · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist - Mastercam / 5 Axis Carson, CA $40-$55/hour, DOE Full-Time | On ... Train machine operators on new programs, setups, and safe operation * Support manufacturing routers ...

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Ducommun

CNC Machinist 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Gardena, CA

$21 - $28.50/hr

... operating the CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) Multi-Axis machines, Vertical/Gantry/Horizontal rotary (4th) axis mills, CC Lathes/Routers and/or 5 axis Core mills. Who are we? Founded in 1849 ...

Ducommun

CNC Machinist 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Gardena, CA · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

... operating the CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) Multi-Axis machines, Vertical/Gantry/Horizontal rotary (4th) axis mills, CC Lathes/Routers and/or 5 axis Core mills. Who are we? Founded in 1849 ...

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All JobsCnc Router Operator JobsTrainee Cnc Router Operator JobsTrainee Cnc Router Operator Jobs in Anaheim, CA

Trainee Cnc Router Operator information

See Anaheim, CA salary details

$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee cnc router operator in Anaheim, CA is $23.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee CNC router operator do?

A Trainee CNC Router Operator assists in operating computer-controlled cutting machines known as CNC routers, which are used to cut and shape materials like wood, plastic, or metal. In this entry-level role, trainees learn how to set up the machine, load materials, read technical drawings, and monitor the cutting process under supervision. They also help with basic machine maintenance and ensure that finished products meet quality standards. Over time, trainees gain the skills needed to operate CNC routers independently and efficiently.

What can I expect during my first few months as a trainee CNC router operator?

As a Trainee CNC Router Operator, your initial months will typically focus on hands-on training with experienced operators, learning machine setup, basic programming, and safety protocols. You’ll gradually take on more responsibility, such as monitoring machine operations and performing routine maintenance. The work environment is usually a team-oriented production floor, where collaboration with supervisors, engineers, and quality control staff is common. Expect to spend time troubleshooting minor issues and learning to read technical drawings. This period is crucial for building a strong foundation in CNC operations and understanding the workflow of your team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee CNC router operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee CNC Router Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, CNC machine controls, and safety protocols is usually required, though formal certification may be gained on the job. Strong problem-solving skills, eagerness to learn, and effective communication help trainees stand out in this hands-on role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring precision, maintaining safety, and supporting efficient manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Trainee Cnc Router Operator vs Cnc Router Programmer?

AspectTrainee Cnc Router OperatorCnc Router Programmer
Required CredentialsBasic technical skills, on-the-job trainingAdvanced knowledge of CNC programming, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, operating CNC machines under supervisionDesign and write CNC programs, often in office or design areas
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in manufacturing, woodworking, metalworkingSpecialized role in manufacturing, requiring programming expertise

The Trainee Cnc Router Operator typically learns to operate CNC routers through on-the-job training, focusing on machine operation and safety. In contrast, the Cnc Router Programmer designs and develops the CNC programs, requiring more technical skills and knowledge. While the trainee role is entry-level, the programmer role is more specialized, often requiring prior experience or certifications.

How much do Trainee CNC Router Operators earn?

Trainee CNC Router Operators typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, with wages increasing as skills and certifications develop.

How to get experience as a Trainee CNC Router Operator?

To gain experience as a Trainee CNC Router Operator, individuals typically start with basic training on CNC machinery, often through vocational schools, technical colleges, or apprenticeship programs. Hands-on practice, understanding CAD/CAM software, and familiarity with safety protocols are essential for developing skills in this role.

Is there a demand for Trainee CNC Router Operators?

There is steady demand for Trainee CNC Router Operators in manufacturing and woodworking industries, especially as companies seek skilled workers to operate and program CNC machines. Entry-level positions often require basic technical skills and familiarity with CAD/CAM software, with opportunities increasing as automation expands. Job growth is driven by manufacturing needs and technological advancements in CNC equipment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc Router Operator jobs in Anaheim, CA?

The most popular types of Cnc Router Operator jobs in Anaheim, CA are:

Trainee Cnc Router Operator jobs near you

Senior Composite CNC Programmer/Machinist

Anduril Industries

Santa Ana, CA

$27.50 - $37.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,028 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Composites/CNC team within Mechanical Services builds high-priority prototype hardware to advance Anduril's mission of protecting service members and securing national security. We work shoulder-to-shoulder with design engineers in a high-tempo environment, building parts directly from rapidly evolving CAD models. Our hardware transitions from concept to real-world vehicles in weeks, not years. This is a low-volume, prototype and development environment. No production.

ABOUT THE JOB

We are seeking a high-ownership Composite CNC Programmer/Operator to join our rapidly growing team. In this role, you will own the end-to-end manufacturing process-from CAM programming and 5-axis setup to operation and final part inspection. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on, R&D-focused position. You program it, set it up, run it, and inspect it. There is no production work here; you will solve complex, unique tooling and prototyping challenges daily, playing a critical role in bringing next-generation defense technologies to life.

WHAT YOU'LL DO 
  • Program, set up, and operate large-format 5-axis CNC gantry routers and mills for trimming, drilling, and surfacing advanced composite components.
  • Work closely with design and manufacturing engineers, providing real-time feedback on early-stage prototype models to optimize Design for Manufacturing (DFM).
  • Design and fabricate robust work holding, including custom vacuum fixtures for delicate, near-net-shape parts.
  • Machine master models and direct-to-part molds from foam, tooling board, and other pattern materials.
  • Troubleshoot unique machining challenges inherent to composites, including delamination, fiber pull-out, and thermal degradation.
  • Perform in-process quality control and dimensional verification to deliver high-quality prototype components with superior surface finishes.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 4+ years of CAM programming experience (e.g., Esprit, hyperMILL) and 5+ years of hands-on CNC setup and operation.
  • Deep understanding of machining complex composite and tooling materials, including carbon fiber (pre-preg and wet-layup), fiberglass, Kevlar, honeycomb, foam cores, and high-density urethane/epoxy tooling boards (e.g., RenShape).
  • Strong command of G and M code, high-speed 5-axis machining, GD&T, and experience with large-gantry 5-axis machines (CMS) and Fanuc controls.
  • Expertise in cutting-tool selection for abrasive materials (e.g., PCD, diamond-coated routers, compression drills) and custom work holding.
  • Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing R&D environment with a strong bias for action and minimal supervision.
  • Passion for national security, defense technology, and solving critical hardware challenges.
  • Must be a U.S. Person as this position requires access to export-controlled data.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Advanced 5-axis simultaneous programming for complex surface contouring and trimming.
  • Experience with Siemens NX CAD and Teamcenter.
  • Familiarity with probing cycles and on-machine verification (e.g., Renishaw).
  • Experience with metallic machining and hybrid fabrication workflows.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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