OPT CNC Machinist Jobs
CNC Machinist roles qualify for F-1 OPT when tied to a manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or precision machining degree. Most positions offer direct STEM OPT extension eligibility, giving you up to three years of work authorization without an immediate H-1B visa requirement.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Our team is looking for a skilled CNC Machinist capable of managing the full production cycle, from programming to operation, on both mills and lathes within our job-shop setting. We value candidates who possess robust CAD/CAM expertise, demonstrate the ability to transform blueprints into high-quality components, and take initiative in refining our machining workflows.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Analyze and translate technical schematics, blueprints, and design specifications.
- Manage the complete setup, programming, and operation of CNC lathe and mill equipment.
- Generate original CNC code utilizing CAD/CAM applications.
- Configure tooling and calibrate offsets to ensure every part adheres to strict quality standards.
- Design and update programs specifically for EDM machinery.
- Maintain and troubleshoot CNC hardware and general shop tools to ensure operational uptime.
- Contribute to the successful installation and optimization of new machinery.
- Help resolve PLC issues and enhance equipment performance through electrical control adjustments.
- Collaborate with the Maintenance, Parts Cage, and Die Tech departments to drive cost savings and operational efficiency.
- Execute various other tasks and projects as requested.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Completion of an Associate’s degree or equivalent in a technical machining discipline.
- Extensive background in CNC machining, specifically regarding autonomous setup and operation.
- Proficiency in creating programs via CAD/CAM tools, with a preference for Fusion 360 or Mastercam.
- Proven technical skill in operating CNC mills and lathes, including managing tooling and offsets.
- Advanced capability in interpreting complex blueprints.
- Technical familiarity with PLC programming, troubleshooting, and CAD systems.
- Demonstrated ability to own projects from inception to completion while working autonomously.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities paired with effective organizational skills.
- Effective interpersonal skills to foster cross-departmental teamwork.
- Experience with ERP platforms and Microsoft 365 is considered a plus.
PREFERRED SKILLS
- Proficiency in manual machining techniques.
- Background in surface grinding operations.
- Expertise in programming and diagnosing PLCs.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision health plans.
- Life insurance coverage.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) policy.
- Two scheduled annual company-wide shutdowns.
- Retirement savings through our 401(k) program.
- Travel expense assistance for commutes exceeding 25 miles one-way.
INTRODUCTION
Our team is looking for a skilled CNC Machinist capable of managing the full production cycle, from programming to operation, on both mills and lathes within our job-shop setting. We value candidates who possess robust CAD/CAM expertise, demonstrate the ability to transform blueprints into high-quality components, and take initiative in refining our machining workflows.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Analyze and translate technical schematics, blueprints, and design specifications.
- Manage the complete setup, programming, and operation of CNC lathe and mill equipment.
- Generate original CNC code utilizing CAD/CAM applications.
- Configure tooling and calibrate offsets to ensure every part adheres to strict quality standards.
- Design and update programs specifically for EDM machinery.
- Maintain and troubleshoot CNC hardware and general shop tools to ensure operational uptime.
- Contribute to the successful installation and optimization of new machinery.
- Help resolve PLC issues and enhance equipment performance through electrical control adjustments.
- Collaborate with the Maintenance, Parts Cage, and Die Tech departments to drive cost savings and operational efficiency.
- Execute various other tasks and projects as requested.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Completion of an Associate’s degree or equivalent in a technical machining discipline.
- Extensive background in CNC machining, specifically regarding autonomous setup and operation.
- Proficiency in creating programs via CAD/CAM tools, with a preference for Fusion 360 or Mastercam.
- Proven technical skill in operating CNC mills and lathes, including managing tooling and offsets.
- Advanced capability in interpreting complex blueprints.
- Technical familiarity with PLC programming, troubleshooting, and CAD systems.
- Demonstrated ability to own projects from inception to completion while working autonomously.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities paired with effective organizational skills.
- Effective interpersonal skills to foster cross-departmental teamwork.
- Experience with ERP platforms and Microsoft 365 is considered a plus.
PREFERRED SKILLS
- Proficiency in manual machining techniques.
- Background in surface grinding operations.
- Expertise in programming and diagnosing PLCs.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision health plans.
- Life insurance coverage.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) policy.
- Two scheduled annual company-wide shutdowns.
- Retirement savings through our 401(k) program.
- Travel expense assistance for commutes exceeding 25 miles one-way.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in CNC Machinist
Target manufacturers with established visa programs
Large aerospace, automotive, and defense manufacturers like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon regularly sponsor skilled machinists. They have dedicated HR processes for work authorization and are far more likely to support OPT and future H-1B visa filing than smaller shops.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension
CNC Machinist roles most reliably qualify for the 24-month STEM extension when your degree is in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or industrial technology. Check your program's CIP code with your DSO before accepting an offer to confirm extension eligibility.
Lead with your technical certifications
NIMS credentials, Mastercam certification, or Fanuc training signal employer-ready skills that reduce onboarding cost. Employers weighing OPT paperwork overhead are more likely to proceed when a candidate demonstrably shortens time-to-productivity on the shop floor.
Apply before your OPT start date whenever possible
Many manufacturers run multi-week hiring cycles with technical assessments and background checks. Starting your job search two to three months before your OPT authorization begins gives you enough runway to clear the process without gaps in work authorization status.
Address OPT timing transparently in interviews
Bring up your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility early. Explain that your authorization covers the role for up to three years and that H-1B sponsorship, if needed, is a standard next step for qualifying manufacturing employers.
Focus on contract manufacturers and precision shops open to OPT
Not all sponsoring employers are household names. Contract manufacturers producing components for aerospace, medical devices, or defense often need skilled machinists urgently and are willing to work through OPT authorization for candidates with strong GD&T and multi-axis machining experience.
CNC Machinist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a CNC Machinist job qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not just the job title. If your undergraduate or graduate degree is in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial technology, or a related STEM field listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List, and the role is directly related to that field, you can apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension through your DSO. A general machining or vocational credential typically does not qualify.
Do CNC Machinist employers typically sponsor H-1B visas?
Some do, particularly large aerospace, defense, and automotive manufacturers that rely on specialized machining talent. Smaller job shops are less likely to sponsor because of the cost and administrative burden. Your best approach is to target employers with a track record of H-1B filings, which you can filter for on Migrate Mate, and to raise the sponsorship conversation once you have demonstrated value during your OPT period.
Can I work as a CNC Machinist on OPT if my degree is in a non-engineering field?
You can work any job on standard 12-month OPT regardless of degree field, so a CNC Machinist role is permissible. However, if your degree is not in a STEM field, you won't qualify for the 24-month STEM extension, which means your authorization is capped at 12 months. You would need employer-sponsored status change, such as H-1B, before that period ends to continue working legally.
What documentation should I give a CNC Machinist employer to verify my OPT work authorization?
Provide your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) and your I-20 with the OPT authorization page. The employer enters your EAD details into Form I-9 to complete employment eligibility verification. If you're on a STEM extension, your updated I-20 and the employer's E-Verify enrollment are both required. Keep copies of all documents and monitor your EAD expiration date closely to avoid authorization gaps.
How do I find CNC Machinist jobs where employers are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and lists CNC Machinist roles from employers who understand and accept OPT work authorization. Filtering by OPT-friendly employers saves significant time compared to applying broadly and discovering late in the process that a company won't proceed with international candidates. Browse current listings on Migrate Mate to find roles matched to your authorization status.