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If you’ve ever Googled “CNC Machinist job description,” you’ve probably come across the same thing over and over:
A lifeless list of responsibilities.
A vague paragraph about “operating machines.”
And bullet points that could apply to almost any factory role.
But here’s the problem—if your goal is to actually hire a skilled, reliable CNC machinist who can deliver precision work and help your team run efficiently, that kind of generic job description won’t cut it.
It doesn’t reflect what the job is really like.
It doesn’t highlight your standards, your tools, or your culture.
And worst of all—it won’t attract the type of talent you’re looking for.
That’s why in this guide, we’re not just giving you a copy-paste job description (though you’ll find one at the end). We’re walking you through exactly how to write a job post that actually helps you attract and hire the right CNC machinist—not just any applicant who’s held a wrench before.
👉 If you haven’t already, check out this full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ to understand why most job descriptions fail—and how to avoid the most common hiring mistakes.
Let’s start by getting clear on what a CNC machinist actually does—and what makes a great one.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What a CNC Machinist Actually Does - Their Roles
A CNC machinist is a skilled technician who sets up, operates, and maintains computer-controlled machines to cut, shape, and finish metal or plastic parts with extreme precision.
But here’s what that really means in practice:
They read blueprints, select the right tools, program the CNC machines (or load pre-written programs), and make sure each part is made to exact specs—often down to the thousandth of an inch.
They’re part operator, part problem-solver, part quality control.
And in many companies, CNC machinists are the backbone of the production floor.
What separates a good machinist from a great one isn’t just technical know-how. It’s:
- Attention to detail
- Pride in their work
- The ability to spot mistakes before they become expensive
- And being dependable enough to keep production moving without constant supervision
So when you’re hiring for this role, you’re not just filling a spot in your workshop—you’re looking for someone who can work with precision, think critically, and help your team deliver high-quality results every single time.
Two Great CNC Machinist Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Experienced CNC Machinist Job Description
Job Title: CNC Machinist — Full-Time | $23–$30/hr (Based on Experience)
Location: Houston, TX | Schedule: Mon–Fri, 6:00AM–2:30PM
🎥 Meet Your Supervisor
Watch this quick 2-minute video from our Production Manager, Greg, on what it’s like to work at TexoFab and what we’re looking for in our next machinist.
📹 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
🏢 Who We Are
TexoFab is a precision manufacturing company based in Houston, Texas, specializing in CNC machining and custom metal fabrication. For over 18 years, we’ve served clients in the aerospace, oil and gas, and medical sectors who depend on our accuracy, speed, and commitment to quality.
We’re a team of hands-on builders and problem-solvers who care deeply about our work—and the people who do it. We invest in high-end equipment, maintain a clean and efficient shop, and focus on building long-term careers for our machinists, not just jobs.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing
As a CNC Machinist at TexoFab, you’ll operate and set up HAAS and Okuma CNC machines to create high-precision parts that meet exact specifications.
Your daily work will include:
- Reading and interpreting blueprints and part drawings
- Setting up and operating CNC lathes and mills
- Making adjustments and offsets to hold tolerances
- Performing in-process quality checks using calipers, micrometers, and gauges
- Updating tooling and editing programs when needed
- Collaborating with the quality and production teams to meet deadlines
- Maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient workstation
✅ What We’re Looking For
- At least 2 years of experience with CNC machining (HAAS preferred)
- Strong understanding of G-code, tooling, and offsets
- Ability to hold tolerances within ±.001″
- Comfortable working independently and solving problems on the fly
- High attention to detail and pride in craftsmanship
- High school diploma or GED preferred
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll be working in a shop that actually values your skills—not just filling a seat. At TexoFab, you’re not just running parts; you’re part of the process. Your input matters, and your work is respected.
We move fast, communicate clearly, and support each other. If you’re someone who takes pride in doing things right the first time—and wants to grow within a company that rewards consistency—you’ll feel right at home here.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- $23–$30/hr depending on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (after 60 days)
- Paid holidays and PTO
- Overtime opportunities
- Climate-controlled, well-lit shop
- Tool reimbursement program after 6 months
- Work boot allowance annually
- Annual performance bonus
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: CNC Machinist Job Description (Entry-Level / Willing to Train)
Job Title: Entry-Level CNC Machinist — Full-Time | $17–$22/hr (Based on Experience)
Location: Columbus, OH | Schedule: Mon–Fri, 7:00AM–3:30PM
🎥 Meet Your Team Lead
Watch this short video from Jordan, our Team Lead at AxisCore Precision, on what you’ll learn in your first 90 days and how we support our new hires.
📹 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
🏢 Who We Are
AxisCore Precision is a growing CNC machine shop based in Columbus, Ohio, serving clients in the automotive and consumer electronics sectors. We specialize in short-run and prototype parts, and our reputation is built on speed, flexibility, and attention to detail.
We’re a small, close-knit team that believes in training people from the ground up. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or switching careers, if you bring the right mindset, we’ll teach you the rest. Our goal is to build up future experts—not just fill open roles.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing
We don’t expect you to have machining experience yet. We’ll train you on everything. What we need is someone who shows up, learns fast, and takes pride in doing things right.
In your first few months, you’ll:
- Learn how to safely operate CNC lathes and mills
- Support machine operators with setups, part loading, and unloading
- Perform quality checks using calipers, micrometers, and gauges
- Keep workstations clean and parts organized
- Shadow senior machinists and learn how to read blueprints
- Follow production plans and log completed work
✅ What We’re Looking For
- No machining experience required—we’ll train you
- Strong work ethic and attention to detail
- Willingness to learn and take feedback
- Ability to follow instructions and work safely
- High school diploma or GED preferred
- Bonus if you’ve worked in a warehouse, shop, or hands-on role before
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t just a job—it’s a stepping stone into a skilled trade with real long-term growth. You’ll be joining a team that values curiosity, consistency, and care.
We’ve trained dozens of new machinists who now run machines solo, troubleshoot issues, and even train others. If you’re hungry to learn and want a company that will invest in your future, AxisCore is the place to start.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Starting pay: $17–$22/hr
- Full training and mentorship program
- Health and dental insurance after 60 days
- Paid holidays and 5 PTO days in your first year
- Overtime opportunities
- Performance-based raises
- Tuition reimbursement for technical courses
- Clean, well-organized work environment
📥 How to Apply
We care about giving everyone a fair shot. That’s why we use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants based on ability—not just experience.
Click the link below to get started with a short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Breakdown of Why These CNC Machinist Job Posts Work
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific
Instead of just saying “CNC Machinist,” each title adds meaningful context:
- “CNC Machinist — Full-Time | $23–$30/hr” tells experienced candidates exactly what kind of job it is, what it pays, and what schedule to expect.
- “Entry-Level CNC Machinist — Willing to Train” is honest and welcoming. It attracts learners, not just experts.
Clear, relevant titles = higher quality applicants.
✅ 2. They Start With a Video Introduction
Most job posts are cold and faceless. These posts include a short video from a real team member or hiring lead, which:
- Makes the company feel human
- Builds trust instantly
- Gives candidates a better feel for the team and the culture
It’s a small addition that makes a big emotional impact.
✅ 3. The Company Descriptions Are Real and Relatable
No vague “we’re a leading company in the manufacturing space.”
Instead, each company profile explains:
- Who they are
- What they make
- Who they serve
- What kind of environment candidates can expect
This helps applicants self-select—and increases alignment.
✅ 4. The Job Responsibilities Show Real Impact
Rather than listing generic duties like “operate CNC machines,” the posts describe what the work actually looks like day to day:
- Inspecting parts down to ±.001″
- Loading and unloading tools
- Collaborating with other departments
This paints a clear picture of what success in the role means.
✅ 5. The Requirements Feel Inclusive, Not Intimidating
For the experienced role, the expectations are clear but not rigid.
For the entry-level role, the language is encouraging:
“No machining experience required—we’ll train you.”
“Bonus if you’ve worked in a warehouse or hands-on role before.”
This opens the door to high-potential candidates who might otherwise disqualify themselves.
✅ 6. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Connects on a Personal Level
Instead of generic perks like “great company culture,” each post speaks directly to the kind of person they want:
- “You’re not just running parts—you’re part of the process.”
- “If you’re hungry to learn and want a company that will invest in your future…”
It’s written like a conversation, not a corporate memo.
✅ 7. Perks and Benefits Are Transparent and Useful
- Pay range is clearly listed
- PTO, insurance, and overtime are mentioned up front
- Tool and tuition reimbursements are offered—something machinists actually value
That transparency builds trust and signals professionalism.
✅ 8. The Application Process Respects the Candidate’s Time
Instead of a vague “submit your resume and wait,” the posts clearly explain how the hiring process works—and why WorkScreen is used:
- To give applicants a fair shot
- To evaluate real skills, not just resumes
- To speed up the process and provide feedback
It makes the whole experience feel modern and respectful.
When you put it all together, these posts don’t just fill roles—they attract the kind of candidates who care about doing the job well.
Bad CNC Machinist Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: CNC Machinist
Company: XYZ Manufacturing
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Cleveland, OH
Job Description:
XYZ Manufacturing is looking for a CNC Machinist to operate and maintain machines in our production facility. The ideal candidate will have experience with machining equipment and be able to follow instructions and complete tasks in a timely manner.
Responsibilities:
- Operate CNC machines
- Follow blueprints
- Maintain equipment
- Complete assigned tasks
Requirements:
- Previous experience in a similar role
- High school diploma
- Ability to read blueprints
- Good attention to detail
How to Apply:
Send your resume to hr@xyzmanufacturing.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🧨 Why This CNC Machinist Job Post Fails
🚫 1. The Job Title Is Generic and Uninspiring
Just “CNC Machinist” with no context.
No shift info, no pay range, no clue who the job is for.
It doesn’t stand out in a list of search results.
🚫 2. The Company Description Tells You Nothing
All we get is “XYZ Manufacturing.” No background. No mission. No product focus.
It feels anonymous and forgettable—like a placeholder company.
🚫 3. The Responsibilities Are Vague and Repetitive
- “Operate CNC machines” and “Complete assigned tasks” don’t tell the applicant anything about what they’ll actually be doing.
- There’s no mention of the tools, machines, or workflow they’ll be part of.
This kind of generic wording fails to attract serious, skilled machinists.
🚫 4. There’s No Mention of Pay, Benefits, or Schedule
In today’s hiring market, omitting compensation is a huge red flag.
It signals either low pay or a lack of transparency.
It also wastes time—candidates won’t apply if they have no idea what’s being offered.
🚫 5. The Tone Feels Cold and Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This kind of phrase makes applicants feel like a number, not a person.
It doesn’t respect their time or effort—and it sets a negative tone right from the start.
🚫 6. There’s Zero Personality or Human Touch
No hiring manager message.
No team video.
No insight into the company culture.
This makes the post easy to ignore—and forget.
🚫 7. It Doesn’t Sell the Opportunity
Nowhere in this post do we hear why this role matters, who the team is, or what a great day on the job looks like.
In short: it’s not a bad post because it’s wrong—it’s bad because it’s boring, bland, and forgettable.
Bonus Tips to Make Your CNC Machinist Job Post Stand Out
✅ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
It may seem small, but in today’s job market, applicants are increasingly cautious about scams and shady listings.
By including a short privacy statement, you show candidates that your company is professional and trustworthy.
Example:
🔒 We take the privacy and security of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank information, or personal financial details at any stage of the hiring process.
✅ 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Most job posts talk about health insurance—but rarely mention time off. And that’s a mistake.
Even for shop-floor roles, candidates want to know they can take a breather when needed—especially in high-precision, physical jobs like CNC machining.
Example:
🕒 Enjoy 5 paid time off (PTO) days your first year, plus paid holidays. We believe rest = better work.
✅ 3. Highlight Training and Growth Opportunities
If you’re open to training new machinists or helping experienced ones advance to programming or team lead roles, say so.
This attracts candidates who care about long-term stability—not just short-term paychecks.
Example:
📚 We offer on-the-job training, mentorship from senior machinists, and reimbursement for relevant technical certifications.
✅ 4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video
Including a short video from your hiring manager, supervisor, or team lead does two things:
- It humanizes your company
- It builds trust instantly
Even a simple 60-second message like “Here’s what we’re looking for” can dramatically increase engagement.
Tip: Put the video right before the “Who We Are” section to catch attention early.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ 5. Include a Clear, Respectful Hiring Process
Tell candidates what happens after they apply.
When you do, you:
- Ease their anxiety
- Set expectations
- Show you actually respect their time
Example:
📩 We use WorkScreen to review all applications quickly and fairly. We respond to every applicant within 1–2 weeks—whether or not you move forward.
These touches may feel small—but they’re the difference between a “decent” post and a top-tier, candidate-focused one.
Should You Use AI to Write CNC Machinist Job Descriptions?
These days, it feels like every hiring platform has a “one-click AI job post generator.” Manatal, Workable, even some ATS tools will offer to “write it for you.”
And while that might sound like a timesaver, here’s the truth:
🚫 The Wrong Way to Use AI
When you give AI no direction and ask it to “write a CNC machinist job description,” you’ll likely get:
- A wall of generic bullet points
- Buzzword-heavy copy
- No mention of your company, your values, or what makes your team different
You attract low-effort applicants—people who copy-paste their resumes to dozens of identical jobs.
And worse? It reflects poorly on your brand. Because for many candidates, this job post is their first impression of you.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (If You Choose To)
AI can be helpful—but only when used as a writing assistant, not a replacement for your judgment or input.
Here’s how to use it smartly:
Step 1: Start with Real Info
Before you prompt the AI, gather your building blocks:
- What your company actually does
- Who the CNC machinist will report to
- What machines they’ll use (HAAS, Okuma, etc.)
- Any special shift details or workplace benefits
- Your team culture, tone, and expectations
- What makes a good fit for your team
Step 2: Give AI a Proper Prompt
Instead of saying:
“Write me a CNC machinist job post”
Say this:
“Help me write a job post for our company, TexoFab. We’re hiring an experienced CNC machinist to run HAAS machines in a full-time day shift. We value reliability, craftsmanship, and independent problem-solving. The role includes setting up, operating, and inspecting precision parts. We offer $23–$30/hr, health benefits, paid time off, and growth opportunities. Here are a few bullet points I’ve written to start with [paste notes here]…”
Let AI help you polish, expand, or reword sections—not build the entire job post from scratch.
🧠 Bottom Line:
Use AI like you’d use a power tool in your shop—it can make the job easier, but only if you know what you’re trying to build.
Write with intention. Reflect your culture. And once it’s ready, let WorkScreen take care of the next step by evaluating candidates based on real skills—not just fancy words.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Quick Copy-Paste CNC Machinist Job Description Templates
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already gone through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But you still want a solid foundation you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Post
Job Title: CNC Machinist — Full-Time | [Insert Pay Range]
Location: [Insert City, State] | Schedule: [Insert Schedule]
🎥 Meet Your Supervisor
Watch this short video from [Insert Name] on what it’s like to work on our team and how we support new hires.
📹 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
🏢 Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [number]-year-old machine shop based in [City, State], focused on precision parts for [industry, e.g., aerospace, medical, automotive]. We’re a small, dedicated team that takes pride in craftsmanship, reliability, and helping each other succeed. We invest in good people, clean workspaces, and the tools you need to do your best work.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing
- Set up and operate CNC machines (e.g., HAAS, Okuma)
- Read blueprints and part drawings
- Perform tool changes and offsets
- Inspect parts using calipers, gauges, and micrometers
- Keep your area organized and your machines running smoothly
- Communicate with QC and production leads to meet goals
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 1–3 years of experience running CNC machines (preferred)
- Ability to read drawings and hold tight tolerances
- Self-starter who takes pride in their work
- Familiar with G-code and part inspection
- Team player with good communication skills
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You won’t just be another machine operator—you’ll be a key part of a growing team that values precision and performance. We listen, support each other, and recognize strong work. If you’re reliable, motivated, and want a place to grow—we’d love to talk.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate based on experience
- Paid holidays + PTO
- Health and dental insurance
- Clean, climate-controlled workspace
- Tool and boot reimbursement
- Growth paths to lead machinist or programmer
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants based on ability—not just buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete a short skills-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
🛠 Option 2: Structured Format (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: CNC Machinist
Job Type: [Insert Job Type]
Location: [Insert Location]
Pay Range: [Insert Pay Range]
🏢 Who We Are
[Company Name] is a precision-focused CNC shop based in [City, State]. We provide high-quality machined components for the [Insert Industry] sector. Our team values consistency, communication, and accountability. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, we’re committed to helping every machinist do great work in a safe, clean environment.
Job Brief
We’re hiring a CNC Machinist to operate, set up, and maintain CNC lathes and mills. You’ll help produce high-quality parts that meet tight tolerances and keep production running smoothly. This is a full-time position based in [Insert Location].
Responsibilities
- Operate and monitor CNC machines
- Set tooling and fixtures per job requirements
- Read and interpret technical drawings
- Inspect parts to ensure accuracy and quality
- Log completed work and report issues
- Maintain a clean and organized workstation
Requirements
- 1+ years of CNC machining experience preferred
- Ability to use measuring tools like calipers and micrometers
- Familiarity with G-code and tooling offsets
- Comfortable working independently
- High school diploma or GED
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- [Insert Pay Range] per hour based on experience
- Paid holidays and PTO
- Health and dental insurance
- Overtime opportunities
- Tool and boot stipend
- On-the-job training and upskilling opportunities
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to fairly and efficiently evaluate candidates based on real skills.
Click the link below to get started with a quick skills-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Writing a strong job post is step one.
But once the applications start coming in, the real challenge begins:
How do you quickly figure out who’s actually qualified—and who just copy-pasted their resume from another job?
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Test for hands-on skills with one click
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Whether you’re hiring experienced machinists or training new ones, WorkScreen helps you move fast, make smarter decisions, and avoid costly hiring mistakes.
🛠️ Ready to hire right, fast, and smart?
to create your job post and let our platform do the heavy lifting.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNC Machinists
Beyond basic machine operation, a great CNC machinist brings a blend of technical and soft skills. Look for:
- Blueprint reading ability – They should be able to understand and interpret technical drawings with minimal supervision.
- Attention to detail – Since tolerances can be within thousandths of an inch, accuracy is everything.
- Tooling and offset knowledge – Especially for experienced roles, they should know how to adjust tooling and machine settings.
- Critical thinking – Can they troubleshoot when a part doesn’t come out right?
- Accountability – Precision work means fewer excuses and more consistency.
- Comfort with inspection tools – Such as calipers, micrometers, and dial indicators.
Soft skills like communication, punctuality, and reliability also play a big role—especially in team-based production environments.
In the United States, the average hourly wage for CNC machinists typically ranges from $18 to $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of equipment used.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Entry-level (0–1 year experience): $17–$22/hr
- Mid-level (2–5 years): $23–$27/hr
- Senior-level / Programmer roles: $28–$35/hr or more
- Specialized industries (aerospace, medical): Often pay a premium due to tighter tolerances and certification requirements
Wages also tend to be higher in regions with high manufacturing demand and skilled labor shortages.
While a formal degree isn’t required, these credentials can boost a machinist’s value:
- NIMS Certification (National Institute for Metalworking Skills)
- Certificate from a trade school or technical college
- On-the-job apprenticeships or shop training
- Experience with specific machines (e.g., HAAS, Okuma, Mazak)
Machinists with G-code programming knowledge or experience using CAM software like Mastercam are also in higher demand.
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a difference:
- CNC Operators typically load raw materials, push start/stop buttons, and run basic parts.
- CNC Machinists handle setups, make tool changes, adjust offsets, inspect parts, and sometimes even edit code or troubleshoot issues.
If you’re hiring for more technical responsibilities or need someone to work independently, you want a machinist—not just an operator.
