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CNC Machine Operator at HuFriedyGroup

HuFriedyGroup Northbrook, IL

Job Description

Position Summary

CNC Machine Operators Level I produce machined parts under close supervision by operating computer numerical control (CNC) machines. This position offers a unique opportunity for someone to learn CNC machining hands-on through our training program. At completion of training, the position requires employees to maintain quality and safety standards, accurate time and record keeping, and demonstrate cleanliness and organization. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Benefits:

Medical, Vision, Dental, 401K Match, PTO, Company Holidays

Duties

  • Must have the ability to understand quality requirements for machined components.
  • Perform component visual inspections to ensure workmanship and parts are free of contamination.
  • Conduct dimensional inspections using appropriate gages and fill out parts inspection log sheets.
  • Read and interpret low-complexity blueprints and component drawings.
  • Aptitude to learn CNC machine offsets when components are off-center and bring back within specification.
  • Populate daily production boards annotated with output, quality, and safety metrics.
  • Ability to identify cycle time of parts being run and be able to calculate production rate.
  • Use scales to weigh and count production pieces.
  • Maintain clean and organized gage tables and work area. This includes wiping down machines following HuFriedyGroup guidelines and mopping floors at the end of each shift.
  • Pull chips when required or instructed and place in proper material location.
  • Must be able to write in a clear and legible manner.
  • Check and record Heat Lot numbers.

Education Degree

High School Diploma or GED

Required Experience

  • 1 year of Manufacturing experience preferred

Typical mid-level pay: $50k for Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators nationally

National salary averages
Expected mid-level
$50k
Entry
Mid
Senior
Expected
$37k Market range (10th-90th percentile) $71k

Slight employer advantage

Standard dynamics. Preparation and demonstrated value matter most.

Hiring leverage
Balanced
Wage leverage âš  Disconnect
Constrained
Mobility
Moderate
Durability
Mostly durable

Who this leverage applies to

Weaker for: Entry-level candidates, Career switchers

Where to negotiate

Base salary
Sign-on bonus
Title / level
Remote flexibility
Scope & responsibility
Start date / PTO

Likely Possible Unlikely

Watch out for

Wage disconnect: Hiring is active but pay hasn't responded—negotiate on other terms.

Focus on demonstrating unique fit and value.

Does this path compound?

Job Growth →
High churn
Growth, flat pay
🚀 Compound
Growth + pay upside
⚠️ Plateau
Limited growth
Specialize
Experts earn more
Pay Upside →
Stable but flat

Steady work, but limited growth in both jobs and pay.

-11%
10yr growth
Most openings come from retirements and turnover, not new positions.
Typical: High school diploma or equivalent

Consider building adjacent skills to stay marketable.

Labor data: BLS 2024