Machine Operator

Job Title: Production Associate

Weekday and Weekend Shifts Open

Job Description

The Production Associate assists in setting up and operating automated CNC Vertical and Horizontal machines. This role involves accurately identifying and locating the X, Y, Z axis on machines, performing daily checks, interpreting product blueprints, and ensuring parts are machined to proper specifications. The position requires the use of scales, calipers, micrometers, and height gauges, as well as the ability to remove and replace dull cutting tools, and to mount, install, align, and secure tools and workpieces. The associate listens for irregular machine sounds, assists in adjusting machine operations, and stops machines as needed to change tooling or setup. Responsibilities also include monitoring coolant systems, transferring commands to CNC modules, and maintaining a clean work area.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the setup and operation of CNC Vertical and Horizontal machines.
• Identify and locate the X, Y, Z axis on machines accurately.
• Perform daily point checks on assigned machines and report any concerns.
• Meet departmental goals and objectives, including efficiency and scrap control.
• Interpret product blueprints, drawings, and other instructions accurately.
• Use scales, calipers, micrometers, and height gauges for precision.
• Replace dull cutting tools following safety protocols.
• Mount, install, align, and secure tools and workpieces on machines.
• Listen for irregular machine sounds and make necessary adjustments.
• Adjust machine feed and speed as needed for proper operation.
• Stop machines to change tooling or setup according to sequences.
• Lift workpieces manually or with hoists or cranes.
• Monitor and adjust coolant systems as needed.
• Transfer commands from servers to CNC modules.
• Assist in setting up future jobs and performing inspections.
• Train new operators and deburr machined parts as required.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures.
• Communicate effectively and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Perform additional tasks and assignments as required.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of six months to three years of experience in a manufacturing role with CNC machines, depending on level.
• Ability to read and interpret shop blueprints, sketches, and technical instructions.
• Proficiency with precision measuring equipment such as mics, calipers, and height gauges.
• Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fraction conversions.
• Consistent employment history without significant gaps or frequent job changes.
• Completion of internal training for Level I, II, or III Operators, with periodic retraining or recertification.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Vocational training or certification in machining is preferred for higher levels.
• Experience using cranes, forklifts, and similar heavy material handling equipment is preferred.

Why Work Here?

Join a workplace that offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, a 401k plan, and growth opportunities that allow you to advance through levels with corresponding pay raises. Enjoy eight paid holidays, annual production-based bonuses, and annual salary evaluations adjusted for the cost of living. Employees can accrue up to 80 hours of vacation, with additional hours added in the first year. Benefit from retention bonuses every six months and referral bonuses ranging from $500-$1,500.

Work Environment

The work environment includes excessive noise requiring hearing protection, exposure to dust, smoke, mist, fumes, and occasionally extreme temperatures. Employees work with hazardous equipment such as forklifts, hand tools, and cranes. Available shifts include day and night shifts over weekends, with additional shift differentials and bonus hours, as well as a weekday day shift for the Tool Crib Attendant, who manages inventory and tools.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Athens, Georgia.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Athens, GA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $17.50 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Athens,GA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 18, 2025.

About Aerotek:

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.