CNC Machine Operator

POSITION: CNC Machine Operator
SHIFT: Monday - Thursday, 6:00 am - 4:30 pm (OT as required)
PAY RATE: $24.00 - $27.00+ per hour (DOE) + Full Benefit Package
LOCATION: Minnkota Windows West Fargo, ND

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Embrace and demonstrate the qualities of the Minnkota Windows Game Changer definition.
• Engage in team-based lean and continuous improvement activities to improve workflows and efficiency.
• Safe operation of the assigned equipment after completing required training and qualification.
• Perform approved startup, operation, changeover, and shutdown procedures, including use of the CNC touchscreen/control, material loading system, work holding fixtures, machining area, and outfeed system.
• Review work orders and verify correct profile, material, color, fin configuration, quantity, and machine instructions before production.
• Confirm MasterPoint-generated saw files match the intended production work and report missing, incomplete, or questionable information before continuing production.
• Load vinyl profiles in the proper orientation and monitor material flow through the machine.
• Monitor machine status, cutting performance, finished-part discharge, system messages, and overall operation during production.
• Inspect first-piece and production cuts using approved measuring tools, work instructions, and quality standards to verify accuracy before and during production.
• Identify and separate nonconforming material and notify the appropriate personnel of recurring quality concerns.
• Properly identify, label, bin, stage, or transfer completed material for downstream production.
• Minimize scrap through proper material handling, machine operation, and approved optimization processes.
• Follow all machine guarding, light-curtain, emergency-stop, interlock, and other safety-device requirements; never bypass or interfere with required safeguards.
• Stop operation and report unusual machine conditions, faults, damaged tooling or fixtures, poor cut quality, or safety concerns.
• Perform authorized operator-level cleaning, inspections, and routine equipment checks.
• Coordinate equipment problems with Production Leadership, Maintenance, Technical Services, Quality, or other support personnel as appropriate.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe machine and material-handling area.
• Cross-train and maintain qualification on the existing equipment to provide dependable production coverage.
• Learn related production processes and assist in other production areas when needed.
• Participate in profile validation, production-cut testing, equipment training, and continuous-improvement activities.
• Prompt and dependable attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALITIES

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability and willingness to learn CNC, automated saw, and related production equipment.
• Ability to safely follow work orders, standard work instructions, machine procedures, safety requirements, and verbal or written direction.
• Comfort using touchscreen controls, production software, and basic computer functions.
• Ability to accurately read a tape measure and use approved measuring tools to verify part quality and dimensions.
• Basic math and measurement skills, including the ability to work with fractions, decimals, and production specifications as required.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify differences in profiles, colors, materials, job information, and finished-part quality.
• Ability to recognize abnormal machine operation, quality concerns, tooling issues, material concerns, or questionable production data.
• Good problem-solving and communication skills, including knowing when to stop production and request assistance.
• Safety-conscious, dependable, accountable, and committed to following established procedures.
• Willingness to cross-train, learn related production processes, and adapt to changing production needs.
• Ability to work independently while cooperating effectively with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Technical Services, and other departments.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous manufacturing, production, fabrication, machining, window/door, vinyl-profile, or related hands-on work experience preferred.
• Experience operating CNC equipment, automated saws, machining centers, industrial machinery, or other computer-controlled production equipment preferred but not required.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, production instructions, measurements, safety procedures, and quality standards required.
• Successful completion of required Minnkota and manufacturer equipment, safety, quality, and operator training is required before independent operation.