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Trainee Cnc Router Operator Jobs in Hillside, IL

M & R Printing

Punch Press Operator

Roselle, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Perform duties to set up and operate CNC Turret presses to produce a variety of parts in accordance ... Work from setup sheets, prints, program tapes, routers, turret station board, and instructions:

M & R Printing

Punch Press Operator

Roselle, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Perform duties to set up and operate CNC Turret presses to produce a variety of parts in accordance ... Work from setup sheets, prints, program tapes, routers, turret station board, and instructions:

Acme Machining

CNC VTL Machinist

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Position Summary The CNC VTL Machinist is a skilled, experienced operator responsible for the setup ... routers, and work orders * Select and install tooling, inserts, fixtures, and workholding equipment ...

Dynamic Manufacturing

Manufacturing Engineer

Hillside, IL · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Program, setup and operate CNC machines using modern CAD / CAM software and or shop floor ... Coach and train operators as required * Adjust set-ups and programs to improve yields and cycle ...

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All JobsCnc Router Operator JobsTrainee Cnc Router Operator JobsTrainee Cnc Router Operator Jobs in Hillside, IL

Trainee Cnc Router Operator information

See Hillside, IL salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee cnc router operator in Hillside, IL is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $25.29 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 cities near Hillside, IL are hiring for Trainee Cnc Router Operator jobs?

Cities near Hillside, IL with the most Trainee Cnc Router Operator job openings:

Trainee Cnc Router Operator jobs near you

CNC Milling Set Up Operator - Second Shift

Acme Machining

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The CNC Mill Setup Technician is an experienced, self-sufficient machinist responsible for setting up, proving out, and running complex CNC milling programs on second shift with minimal supervision. This is not an operator role — it is a setup role. The right candidate owns the machine from job launch to last part, troubleshoots independently, holds tight tolerances on high-mix, low-volume aerospace and defense components, and has the instinct and experience to be the last line of defense on second shift.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Perform complete job setups on CNC vertical and/or horizontal machining centers from engineering drawings, routers, and work orders
  • Select, install, and qualify tooling, fixtures, and workholding for each job
  • Prove out new and revised programs; make offsets, edits, and parameter adjustments as needed to achieve first-article approval
  • Run in-process and final inspection using precision measurement tools — micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, dial indicators, and CMM where applicable
  • Read and interpret GD&T and blueprints accurately and independently
  • Diagnose and resolve machine alarms, tooling failures, surface condition issues, and out-of-tolerance conditions without waiting for engineering or programming support
  • Maintain accurate production records, setup sheets, first-article documentation, and non-conformance reports
  • Transition jobs cleanly to operators once setups are proven; document setups clearly for repeatability
  • Support shift continuity by communicating open issues, in-process jobs, and priorities to day shift at turnover
  • Follow all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards; support 5S on the shop floor
  • Participate in cross-training and knowledge transfer as the team grows
Qualifications

Required:

  • 5+ years of CNC milling experience with demonstrated setup responsibility — not operator-only background
  • Ability to set up jobs start to finish independently, including workholding, tooling, and program prove-out
  • Proficiency reading blueprints and GD&T
  • Experience with precision measurement and first-article inspection
  • Ability to troubleshoot out-of-tolerance conditions, tool wear issues, and machine alarms independently
  • Commitment to second shift on a consistent, long-term basis

Preferred:

  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or heavy industrial precision manufacturing
  • Familiarity with FANUC or Siemens controls
  • Exposure to AS9100 or ISO quality management systems
  • Experience with high-mix, low-volume complex component manufacturing
  • Experience informally training or mentoring less experienced operators
What We Offer
  • Competitive hourly wage commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
  • A stable, growing company with 70+ years of history and a long-term ownership mindset
  • Complex, interesting work — high-mix aerospace and defense components, not repetitive production runs
  • Active investment in workforce development and apprenticeship — room to grow into training, lead, and mentorship roles
Core Values

At ACME, we are Dedicated, Persistent, Creative, and Supportive. We're looking for someone who gets the job done, thinks through problems, finds better ways, and helps the team win.