CNC Operator Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
CNC operators qualify for H-1B sponsorship when the role requires specialized knowledge of advanced machining systems, CAD/CAM programming, or precision manufacturing processes. Most positions require an associate's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing technology, or related technical field. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsAbout Kennametal
With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Shift: 2nd, Monday - Friday, 3pm - 11:30am
(Train: days 6-8 months Monday – Friday 7am – 3:30pm)
Job Summary and Mission
Responsible for setting up and operating Mazak mills, Mikino sinkers, Fanuc Robocut wire and/or Okuma/Hwacheon lathes, as well as expertise in manual machines including lathes. The Machinist will be responsible for producing precision parts to specifications, ensuring efficient machine operation, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Key Job Responsibilities
Set up and operate CNC machines such as Mazak mills, Mikino sinkers, wire and/or Okuma/Hwacheon to perform tasks such as drilling, grinding, milling, etc. Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions to determine machining operations.
Program and adjust machine settings (speed, feed, tool changes) to ensure optimal performance.
Perform routine maintenance on machines and equipment to ensure they remain in good working condition.
Able to read and write G-code for editing (speed adjustment, feeds, or toolpaths), debugging machine issues, and setting up tooling.
Use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify dimensions and quality of finished parts.
Monitor machine operations and make adjustments as necessary to ensure adherence to specifications and quality standards.
Collaborate with engineering and production teams to resolve any machining issues and optimize processes.
Adhere to safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Key Job Accountabilities
Commitment to working safely and understand all safety procedures. Machinist responsible for following control plan, assuring product is processed/inspected according to proper routings, specifications and that the quantity and style are correct. Work to meet daily departmental production goals. Must be reliable and dependable. Communicate safety, quality, product issues with supervisor, team members and across shifts.
Physical Demands
Approximately eight (8), ten (10), or twelve (12) hours with scheduled break periods. Standing, intermittent walking, reaching, sitting, bending and lifting product weighing no more than thirty-three (33) pounds. Use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks, to operate machinery, and handle tools safely. Visual acuity is necessary for reading gauges, inspecting products, and ensuring quality standards. Physical stamina and the ability to maintain focus during repetitive tasks are essential.
Working Conditions
Working in environments with varying temperatures and exposure to noise may be required. Some environments may include controlled temperatures and dust collection systems. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required: Safety glasses with side-shields, safety shoes, gloves, and cut resistant gloves when necessary.
Problem Solving
Set up and run orders according to the order selection procedure. Assignments and instructions communicated orally and carried out by standing guidelines. Routine problems solved by operator using learned knowledge and production processes. Recurring problems and major decisions receive supervisor attention.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- AS in machining/CNC preferred.
- 5+ years experience operating CNC machines (metal machining preferred).
Equal Opportunity Employer
About Kennametal
With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Shift: 2nd, Monday - Friday, 3pm - 11:30am
(Train: days 6-8 months Monday – Friday 7am – 3:30pm)
Job Summary and Mission
Responsible for setting up and operating Mazak mills, Mikino sinkers, Fanuc Robocut wire and/or Okuma/Hwacheon lathes, as well as expertise in manual machines including lathes. The Machinist will be responsible for producing precision parts to specifications, ensuring efficient machine operation, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Key Job Responsibilities
Set up and operate CNC machines such as Mazak mills, Mikino sinkers, wire and/or Okuma/Hwacheon to perform tasks such as drilling, grinding, milling, etc. Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions to determine machining operations.
Program and adjust machine settings (speed, feed, tool changes) to ensure optimal performance.
Perform routine maintenance on machines and equipment to ensure they remain in good working condition.
Able to read and write G-code for editing (speed adjustment, feeds, or toolpaths), debugging machine issues, and setting up tooling.
Use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify dimensions and quality of finished parts.
Monitor machine operations and make adjustments as necessary to ensure adherence to specifications and quality standards.
Collaborate with engineering and production teams to resolve any machining issues and optimize processes.
Adhere to safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Key Job Accountabilities
Commitment to working safely and understand all safety procedures. Machinist responsible for following control plan, assuring product is processed/inspected according to proper routings, specifications and that the quantity and style are correct. Work to meet daily departmental production goals. Must be reliable and dependable. Communicate safety, quality, product issues with supervisor, team members and across shifts.
Physical Demands
Approximately eight (8), ten (10), or twelve (12) hours with scheduled break periods. Standing, intermittent walking, reaching, sitting, bending and lifting product weighing no more than thirty-three (33) pounds. Use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks, to operate machinery, and handle tools safely. Visual acuity is necessary for reading gauges, inspecting products, and ensuring quality standards. Physical stamina and the ability to maintain focus during repetitive tasks are essential.
Working Conditions
Working in environments with varying temperatures and exposure to noise may be required. Some environments may include controlled temperatures and dust collection systems. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required: Safety glasses with side-shields, safety shoes, gloves, and cut resistant gloves when necessary.
Problem Solving
Set up and run orders according to the order selection procedure. Assignments and instructions communicated orally and carried out by standing guidelines. Routine problems solved by operator using learned knowledge and production processes. Recurring problems and major decisions receive supervisor attention.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- AS in machining/CNC preferred.
- 5+ years experience operating CNC machines (metal machining preferred).
Equal Opportunity Employer
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in CNC Operator
Emphasize technical programming skills
Highlight experience with CAD/CAM software, G-code programming, and multi-axis machining. These specialized skills help establish the role as requiring technical expertise beyond basic operation.
Target precision manufacturing companies
Aerospace, medical device, and automotive manufacturers often need skilled CNC operators and have established sponsorship programs for technical roles requiring specialized knowledge.
Demonstrate quality control expertise
Experience with CMM inspection, statistical process control, and precision measurement tools strengthens the case that your role requires specialized technical knowledge and training.
Focus on setup and troubleshooting abilities
Roles involving machine setup, tooling selection, and complex problem-solving are more likely to qualify for sponsorship than basic operation-only positions.
Consider related engineering technician roles
Manufacturing engineering technician or machining specialist positions often have clearer degree requirements and may offer better sponsorship prospects than operator-level roles.
Build programming and design experience
Develop skills in CAD design, CNC programming, and process optimization. These technical competencies help differentiate your role from basic machine operation.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Do CNC operators qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
CNC operators can qualify for H-1B sponsorship when the role requires specialized technical knowledge of advanced machining systems, programming, or precision manufacturing processes. The position must require at least an associate's degree in a technical field and involve complex setup, programming, or troubleshooting responsibilities beyond basic machine operation.
What degree is required for CNC operator visa sponsorship?
Most sponsored CNC operator positions require an associate's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing technology, machining technology, or a related technical field. Some employers may accept a bachelor's degree in engineering or extensive technical training combined with relevant work experience in precision manufacturing.
Which industries sponsor CNC operators most frequently?
Aerospace, medical device manufacturing, automotive, and precision tooling companies most commonly sponsor CNC operators. These industries require specialized machining knowledge for complex parts and often have established sponsorship programs for technical roles requiring advanced programming and quality control skills.
How can I strengthen my H-1B application as a CNC operator?
Focus on specialized skills like CAD/CAM programming, multi-axis machining, statistical process control, and precision measurement. Emphasize roles involving machine setup, tooling selection, and complex problem-solving rather than basic operation. Consider transitioning to manufacturing technician or machining specialist positions with clearer degree requirements.
What's the difference between operator and technician roles for sponsorship?
Manufacturing technician or machining specialist roles typically have clearer degree requirements and involve more technical responsibilities like process optimization, quality analysis, and equipment maintenance. These positions are generally easier to sponsor than basic operator roles, which may be viewed as requiring primarily hands-on skills rather than specialized technical knowledge.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored CNC Operator jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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