CNC Machinist Jobs
CNC Machinist jobs are open across aerospace, automotive, medical device manufacturing, and defense industries, from entry-level operators to senior programmers and setup machinists, with specializations in multi-axis machining, turning, and milling. Find a role that fits from the openings below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 245+ CNC Machinist jobs
INTRODUCTION
At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting-edge research and real-world innovation. Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast-moving culture.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for set-up and operation of CNC machines in compliance with inch and metric drawing specifications. Responsible for the proper use and maintenance of all measuring tools and devices used in inspection of all components. Works under general supervision. Although the location of the position is in Rochester, NY, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.
- Performs set ups on various CNC Production Equipment such as milling, turning or similar operations
- Machines and/or fabricating precision tools and fixturing to tight tolerances and complex geometries based on specifications
- Solid understanding of mechanical design and dimensioning principles which includes reading blueprints and geometric tolerances comprehension
- Demonstrates a high level of knowledge in programming and overall machine operation
- Understands material properties (rates of expansion, strength, hardness) and special machining requirements
- Measures, inspects and troubleshoots dimensions of finished work pieces to ensure conformance to specifications. May modify fixtures to spec, as needed
- Completes routine and priority tasks defined by management to ensure on time deliveries
- Performs periodic machine maintenance such as but not limited to dismantling or partly dismantling machines and performing repairs that mainly involve the use of hand tools in scraping and fitting parts
- Comply with safety regulations and maintains a clean and orderly work space
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Experience:
- 3-5 years minimum experience required
Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience
- CNC certification or CNC Trade School, a major plus
Specialized Knowledge and Skills:
- Experience with Haas and Fanuc controls
- Understanding of G codes/M codes
- Setup Time Reduction a plus
- Prototyping experience a plus
- Strong sense of ownership and work ethic, written and verbal communication skills
- Communication skills
- Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere and comply with high quality standards
- Knowledge of Lean Principles including "Just in Time", and Setup Time Reduction a plus
COMPENSATION
The estimated pay range for this role is $29.00 to $36.00 per hour
BENEFITS
Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.
Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.
INTRODUCTION
At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting-edge research and real-world innovation. Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast-moving culture.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for set-up and operation of CNC machines in compliance with inch and metric drawing specifications. Responsible for the proper use and maintenance of all measuring tools and devices used in inspection of all components. Works under general supervision. Although the location of the position is in Rochester, NY, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.
- Performs set ups on various CNC Production Equipment such as milling, turning or similar operations
- Machines and/or fabricating precision tools and fixturing to tight tolerances and complex geometries based on specifications
- Solid understanding of mechanical design and dimensioning principles which includes reading blueprints and geometric tolerances comprehension
- Demonstrates a high level of knowledge in programming and overall machine operation
- Understands material properties (rates of expansion, strength, hardness) and special machining requirements
- Measures, inspects and troubleshoots dimensions of finished work pieces to ensure conformance to specifications. May modify fixtures to spec, as needed
- Completes routine and priority tasks defined by management to ensure on time deliveries
- Performs periodic machine maintenance such as but not limited to dismantling or partly dismantling machines and performing repairs that mainly involve the use of hand tools in scraping and fitting parts
- Comply with safety regulations and maintains a clean and orderly work space
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Experience:
- 3-5 years minimum experience required
Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent work experience
- CNC certification or CNC Trade School, a major plus
Specialized Knowledge and Skills:
- Experience with Haas and Fanuc controls
- Understanding of G codes/M codes
- Setup Time Reduction a plus
- Prototyping experience a plus
- Strong sense of ownership and work ethic, written and verbal communication skills
- Communication skills
- Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere and comply with high quality standards
- Knowledge of Lean Principles including "Just in Time", and Setup Time Reduction a plus
COMPENSATION
The estimated pay range for this role is $29.00 to $36.00 per hour
BENEFITS
Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.
Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.
See All 245+ CNC Machinist Jobs
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Find CNC Machinist JobsCNC Machinist Job Market
A snapshot from current openings nationwide, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Jobot22
- Laborup18
- ARCH Medical Solutions10
- ASTEC7
- ATI5
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing73
- Staffing & Recruiting40
- Medical Devices35
- Consulting & Professional Services15
- Technology & Software13
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in CNC machinist jobs.
- 2 to 5 years of CNC machining experience in a production environment
- Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T callouts
- Experience with CNC mills, lathes, or machining centers and their associated controls
- Ability to use precision measurement tools including micrometers, calipers, and gauges
- Familiarity with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or equivalent
- High school diploma or equivalent, with vocational or technical training preferred
Tips for Your CNC Machinist Job Search
List every machine and control you've run
Employers filter resumes for specific equipment: Haas, Mazak, Fanuc, Siemens, Okuma. Name every CNC control and machine type you've operated, including axis count, so your resume surfaces in the right keyword searches.
Quantify tolerances you routinely hold
Hiring managers want to know your precision range. Stating that you consistently hold tolerances of plus or minus 0.001 inch or tighter tells a shop floor supervisor more than any general claim about attention to detail.
Target openings by programming language
G-code and M-code fluency, CAM software experience like Mastercam or Fusion 360, and conversational programming are often listed as separate requirements. Match the exact language from each job posting to your resume before you apply.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists cnc machinist openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Prepare for a practical skills assessment
Many shops ask candidates to read a print, identify GD&T callouts, or write a short program during the interview. Review datum references, surface finish symbols, and basic G-code blocks before your first technical screen so you're not caught off guard.
Negotiate shift differentials, not just base pay
Manufacturing roles frequently offer second and third shift premiums that meaningfully change total compensation. Ask specifically about shift differentials, overtime structure, and tool allowances during the offer stage rather than focusing only on the hourly rate.
CNC Machinist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most cnc machinists?
The companies hiring the most cnc machinists right now include Jobot, Laborup, and ARCH Medical Solutions, with the largest share of openings in Wisconsin, California, and Ohio, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Aerospace, defense, and medical device manufacturers tend to post the highest volume of openings consistently.
How many cnc machinist jobs are remote?
About 0% of cnc machinist openings are fully remote or hybrid as of June 2026, which is low compared to most technical roles because the work requires physical machine operation. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote flexibility are CNC programming, CAM design, and quality documentation roles that do not require hands-on machine time.
How do you become a cnc machinist?
You become a cnc machinist by completing a vocational or community college program in machining technology or manufacturing, then working as a machine operator to build hands-on experience. From there, you progress by learning to read engineering drawings, set up machines, write or edit G-code programs, and eventually operate multi-axis equipment independently. Many machinists also pursue credentials from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills to validate their skills formally.
Can you get a cnc machinist job with little or no experience?
Yes, entry-level cnc machinist positions exist for candidates who complete a machining program at a vocational school or community college, even without direct shop floor experience. Employers hiring at this level typically look for basic blueprint reading, a willingness to learn specific controls, and physical comfort working in a manufacturing environment. Starting as a machine operator or deburring technician is a common way to get a foot in the door and build toward a full machinist role.
What does the cnc machinist interview process look like?
The cnc machinist interview process typically starts with a phone screen focused on your machine experience and control familiarity, followed by an in-person interview at the facility. Many shops include a practical component where you read a blueprint, identify tolerances, or answer questions about tool offsets and G-code. Some employers ask you to walk through how you would set up a specific part, so reviewing a recent project you can describe in detail is worth doing before you go in.
Where can I find and apply to cnc machinist jobs?
You can find and apply to cnc machinist jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States. Find roles that match your machine experience, shift preference, and location, then apply directly to each listing. New openings are added regularly, so checking back often gives you the best chance of catching positions before they fill.
See All 245+ CNC Machinist Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any CNC machinist role that fits.
Find CNC Machinist Jobs