Title

 CNC Operator 1

Department

 Machine Shop

Reports to

 Machine Shop Manager

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

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.

Job Summary:

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. It’s a great opportunity for a dependable, hands‑on individual who enjoys working in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment and takes pride in producing consistent, accurate parts.

You Will:

• Operate CNC mills and lathes using existing programs, setups, and work instructions.
• Load and unload raw materials, fixtures, and finished parts.
• Monitor machine operation, tool wear, and part quality throughout production runs.
• 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.
• Follow documented procedures, routers, and quality check sheets.
• Communicate issues such as dimensional drift, tool breakage, or machine concerns to technical lead or shop manager.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Complete required production and inspection documentation accurately.
• Perform routine operator‑level preventative maintenance tasks.
• Be available for occasional overtime to support production needs.

You Have:

• High School Diploma/GED or vocational equivalent.

• Experience operating CNC mills or lathes in a manufacturing environment, or strong mechanical aptitude with willingness to learn.
• Ability to read basic blueprints and understand part dimensions and tolerances.
• Familiarity with standard inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, comparators, etc.).
• Understanding of basic machining concepts such as feeds, speeds, and tool wear.
• Reliability, attention to detail, and a commitment to producing quality parts.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized workspace.

You Are:

• Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up.
• Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge.
• Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Analytical: Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution” attitude.
• Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members.
• Detail-Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills.
• A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get things done’ attitude.
• A U.S. Person: Compliant with ITAR, EAR and other laws and regulations as defined: “U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.”

You Will Enjoy:

• Growth: The opportunity to learn and advance your career, internal training and advancement opportunities, Tuition Reimbursement Program.
• Wealth: Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance, a 401(k) with company match, company contributions to medical savings plans.
• Wellness: Health, Dental, Vision Insurance. Company provided Life Insurance and Disability Insurance.
• Balance: 11 paid holidays, generous paid vacation and sick time
• Culture: an energetic, value-driven team where you will experience the reward of meaningful work!

Environment & Physical Demands:

• May involve the use of oils and solvents.
• Subject to some soilage from cleaning solutions. (Lab Coats provided)
• Generally works in a clean environment and works to maintain the environment as such.
• Safety Glasses are required
• May require area specific safety training

• This position works in a manufacturing environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate-loud. 
• The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne paper particles.
• May work at different workstations as production needs require, or shifts from one station to another, during the production process.
• Prolonged standing. Use of hands and arms to operate machinery including fine manipulation of parts.
• Some Computer use is required

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

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/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

In compliance with federal law, 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.