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
ARCH- Olive Branch is looking for a CNC machinist. If you are a motivated, driven to succeed team player we want you to join us. Let's improve lives together and make a difference in the world! Medical, Dental and vision ins effective day one. Competitive 401k and several other benefits offered.
JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for setting up and operating CNC machine tools to produce high-quality precision parts for medical devices. Requires a strong understanding of machining processes, technical proficiency, and a commitment to meeting production and quality targets.
Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders, and/or EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) equipment.
- Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine machining requirements.
- Reads CNC programs using CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software such as Mastercam.
- Perform machine setups, tool changes, and adjustments to achieve desired part dimensions and surface finishes.
- Monitor machining processes and make necessary adjustments to ensure quality and efficiency.
- Conduct in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges).
- Maintain CNC machines and tooling, perform routine maintenance, and keep work area clean and organized.
- Adhere to safety guidelines, quality standards, and regulatory requirements applicable to medical device manufacturing.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate degree or technical certification in CNC machining, manufacturing technology, or related field or equivalent experience.
- Typically 2-5 years of experience operating CNC machines in a manufacturing environment, preferably in medical device or aerospace industries.
- Some ability in CNC programming, setup, and operation.
- Strong knowledge of machining processes, tooling selection, and materials (e.g., stainless steel, titanium, plastics).
- Experience with CAM software and CAD/CAM integration.
- Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.
- Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and contribute to a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
ARCH Medical Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer and wholeheartedly supports diversity in the workplace as a basic premise for business success. All employees of Arch Medical Solutions are employed on an at-will basis.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instruction and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.
A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skill, or abilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
INTRODUCTION
ARCH- Olive Branch is looking for a CNC machinist. If you are a motivated, driven to succeed team player we want you to join us. Let's improve lives together and make a difference in the world! Medical, Dental and vision ins effective day one. Competitive 401k and several other benefits offered.
JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for setting up and operating CNC machine tools to produce high-quality precision parts for medical devices. Requires a strong understanding of machining processes, technical proficiency, and a commitment to meeting production and quality targets.
Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders, and/or EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) equipment.
- Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine machining requirements.
- Reads CNC programs using CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software such as Mastercam.
- Perform machine setups, tool changes, and adjustments to achieve desired part dimensions and surface finishes.
- Monitor machining processes and make necessary adjustments to ensure quality and efficiency.
- Conduct in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges).
- Maintain CNC machines and tooling, perform routine maintenance, and keep work area clean and organized.
- Adhere to safety guidelines, quality standards, and regulatory requirements applicable to medical device manufacturing.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate degree or technical certification in CNC machining, manufacturing technology, or related field or equivalent experience.
- Typically 2-5 years of experience operating CNC machines in a manufacturing environment, preferably in medical device or aerospace industries.
- Some ability in CNC programming, setup, and operation.
- Strong knowledge of machining processes, tooling selection, and materials (e.g., stainless steel, titanium, plastics).
- Experience with CAM software and CAD/CAM integration.
- Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.
- Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and contribute to a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
ARCH Medical Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer and wholeheartedly supports diversity in the workplace as a basic premise for business success. All employees of Arch Medical Solutions are employed on an at-will basis.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instruction and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.
A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skill, or abilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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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.