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 JobsJoin Our Team at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak!
Embark on a rewarding career journey with voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, North America's premier designer and manufacturer of special trackwork. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we lead the industry in shaping the future of rail solutions. As part of the voestalpine Railway Systems global network, we are committed to delivering quality products and services, including rails, turnouts, fastening systems, signaling technologies, and monitoring solutions. Operating with a presence across Canada, the US, and Mexico, we prioritize the well-being of our people, global mobility, and sustainability and innovation.
Our people are the foundation of our success. Skilled, motivated, and results-driven individuals shape our culture demonstrating our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Curiosity, Courage, Passion, and Diversity each day. This commitment is more than shared values; it extends to shared responsibilities for safety and quality, showing genuine care for one another's growth and development, a commitment to our customers, and fostering strong relationships within the Nortrak Team and with our customers.
We are currently looking for a CNC Machinist to join our team in Birmingham, Alabama.
Purpose of Position:
Reporting directly to the Department Supervisor, the CNC Machinist is responsible for safely and efficiently operating CNC machines and related equipment to ensure proper cleaning and preparation of castings, as outlined in the OMS/process sheet. The role also includes performing accurate inspections of castings to maintain quality standards. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with multi-axis CNC milling machines and a strong understanding of G-code programming.
Task and Responsibilities:
- Operate and maintain multi-axis CNC milling machines.
- Read, interpret, and adjust G-code programming to ensure accurate machining.
- Apply M-code programming when needed.
- Monitor machine operations to ensure correct tooling, cutters, and speeds are used.
- Manage CNC programs for recurring parts and issue them ahead of production needs.
- Help team members with CNC program questions, machine operation, and tooling issues.
- Knowledge of operating multi-axis CNC machines.
- Ensure all CNC programs prioritize safety and follow company safety policies.
- Follow all safety, quality, and environmental procedures.
- Keep track of hand tools, carbide inserts, and other small tooling—stock, usage, and ordering.
- Suggest ways to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce costs through better tooling and methods.
- Make sure all programs produce quality parts that meet standards.
- Work with QA and production teams to complete first article runs within tolerance.
- Help with machinery maintenance, installation, and setup.
- Work well with others and support a team-oriented environment.
- Adhere to Nortrak’s Safety, Quality, and Environmental Procedures, Practices, and Policies.
Job Requirements:
- College degree in manufacturing technology or programming is preferred or equivalent experience including CNC programming experience in a heavy manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience operating multi-axis CNC machines.
- Strong understanding of G-code programming and the ability to read, modify, and troubleshoot code.
- Familiarity with M-code programming is considered an asset.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
- Proficient with precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers).
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
Physical Demands:
- Frequent standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and pushing, pulling, or lifting objects for the duration of your required schedule shift.
- Use hands and arms to operate tools, handle materials, and reach for the duration of your required scheduled shift.
- Regularly lift and carry 30–35 pounds; occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
- Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
- Hearing abilities necessary to perform job tasks safely and effectively.
Working Location:
Birmingham, Alabama.
Benefits:
- A supportive, family oriented Nortrak Blue culture
- We provide an environment where Health and Safety is our #1 priority
- Career development opportunities and competitive pay progression
- Competitive medical, dental & vision benefits
- Company paid life and disability insurance
- Paid holidays and vacation
- Retirement plan with matching contributions
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Wellness Program
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Recognition Programs
If you think you have the necessary qualifications and drive to excel in our team, we invite you to apply now and join us at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak. Apply today!
voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, and any other federal, state, or locally protected classifications.
INDHP
ZR
Join Our Team at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak!
Embark on a rewarding career journey with voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, North America's premier designer and manufacturer of special trackwork. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we lead the industry in shaping the future of rail solutions. As part of the voestalpine Railway Systems global network, we are committed to delivering quality products and services, including rails, turnouts, fastening systems, signaling technologies, and monitoring solutions. Operating with a presence across Canada, the US, and Mexico, we prioritize the well-being of our people, global mobility, and sustainability and innovation.
Our people are the foundation of our success. Skilled, motivated, and results-driven individuals shape our culture demonstrating our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Curiosity, Courage, Passion, and Diversity each day. This commitment is more than shared values; it extends to shared responsibilities for safety and quality, showing genuine care for one another's growth and development, a commitment to our customers, and fostering strong relationships within the Nortrak Team and with our customers.
We are currently looking for a CNC Machinist to join our team in Birmingham, Alabama.
Purpose of Position:
Reporting directly to the Department Supervisor, the CNC Machinist is responsible for safely and efficiently operating CNC machines and related equipment to ensure proper cleaning and preparation of castings, as outlined in the OMS/process sheet. The role also includes performing accurate inspections of castings to maintain quality standards. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with multi-axis CNC milling machines and a strong understanding of G-code programming.
Task and Responsibilities:
- Operate and maintain multi-axis CNC milling machines.
- Read, interpret, and adjust G-code programming to ensure accurate machining.
- Apply M-code programming when needed.
- Monitor machine operations to ensure correct tooling, cutters, and speeds are used.
- Manage CNC programs for recurring parts and issue them ahead of production needs.
- Help team members with CNC program questions, machine operation, and tooling issues.
- Knowledge of operating multi-axis CNC machines.
- Ensure all CNC programs prioritize safety and follow company safety policies.
- Follow all safety, quality, and environmental procedures.
- Keep track of hand tools, carbide inserts, and other small tooling—stock, usage, and ordering.
- Suggest ways to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce costs through better tooling and methods.
- Make sure all programs produce quality parts that meet standards.
- Work with QA and production teams to complete first article runs within tolerance.
- Help with machinery maintenance, installation, and setup.
- Work well with others and support a team-oriented environment.
- Adhere to Nortrak’s Safety, Quality, and Environmental Procedures, Practices, and Policies.
Job Requirements:
- College degree in manufacturing technology or programming is preferred or equivalent experience including CNC programming experience in a heavy manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience operating multi-axis CNC machines.
- Strong understanding of G-code programming and the ability to read, modify, and troubleshoot code.
- Familiarity with M-code programming is considered an asset.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
- Proficient with precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers).
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
Physical Demands:
- Frequent standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and pushing, pulling, or lifting objects for the duration of your required schedule shift.
- Use hands and arms to operate tools, handle materials, and reach for the duration of your required scheduled shift.
- Regularly lift and carry 30–35 pounds; occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
- Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
- Hearing abilities necessary to perform job tasks safely and effectively.
Working Location:
Birmingham, Alabama.
Benefits:
- A supportive, family oriented Nortrak Blue culture
- We provide an environment where Health and Safety is our #1 priority
- Career development opportunities and competitive pay progression
- Competitive medical, dental & vision benefits
- Company paid life and disability insurance
- Paid holidays and vacation
- Retirement plan with matching contributions
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Wellness Program
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Recognition Programs
If you think you have the necessary qualifications and drive to excel in our team, we invite you to apply now and join us at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak. Apply today!
voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, and any other federal, state, or locally protected classifications.
INDHP
ZR
See all OPT CNC Machinist Jobs
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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.