About the Role
A CNC Operator is responsible for running CNC mills and lathes to produce quality parts by following established setups, work instructions, and inspection requirements. This role focuses on loading material, operating machines safely, monitoring production, and ensuring parts meet specifications using basic measurement tools. Work is performed in a low-mix, high-volume setting where repeatability, attention to detail, and adherence to process are critical. The operator is responsible for monitoring machine operation, performing basic in-process inspection using standard measurement tools, and identifying and escalating issues that impact quality or production.
Responsibilities
- Operate CNC mills and lathes using existing programs, setups, and work instructions.
- Load and unload raw materials, fixtures, and finished parts to support continuous production.
- Monitor machine operation and part quality during production runs, identifying issues such as tool wear, dimensional variation, or machine abnormalities.
- Make basic adjustments such as tool offsets or feed/speed changes when trained and authorized.
- Inspect parts using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other standard measuring tools to verify conformance to specifications.
- Accurately complete production and inspection documentation in accordance with internal procedures.
- Communicate quality or equipment issues to supervision or technical leads for resolution.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area and perform routine operator-level maintenance tasks.
- Be available for occasional overtime to support production needs.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Prior experience operating CNC mills or lathes in a manufacturing environment.
- Ability to read basic blueprints and understand part dimensions and tolerances.
- Familiarity with standard inspection tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges).
- Basic understanding of machining concepts, including feeds, speeds, and tool wear.
- Ability to follow established work instructions and perform tasks consistently in a production environment.
- Applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by U.S. law (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, persons granted refugee or asylum status, or temporary residents granted amnesty) pursuant to ITAR, EAR, and other export compliance laws and regulations.
- All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Skills
- Calipers
- Micrometers
- Height gauges
- Machining concepts
- Feeds
- Speeds
- Tool wear
- Blueprint reading
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Organizational skills
Location
- Onsite
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Entry Level
- Experienced
Education Level
- High School Diploma or GED
Salary/Compensations
- Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance.
Benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Tuition reimbursement opportunities
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- HSA
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vacation time
- Sick time
- 11 paid company holidays
About the Company
- RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies.
- We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating.
- RPO offers exciting career paths to work on market-leading programs across a variety of industries.
Equal Opportunity
- Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.
- EOE/AA/Race/Gender/Disability/Veteran
