CNC Skill Operator at Palmer Hamilton Llc – Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Position Summary
The CNC Router Operator – Wood is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC wood routing equipment, including Anderson, Thermwood, Rover, and Biesse machines. This role produces precision wood components that meet Palmer Hamilton’s quality, safety, and productivity standards.
The ideal candidate brings hands-on CNC routing experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to craftsmanship and continuous improvement. This position offers opportunities for cross-training, skill development, and career advancement within a collaborative manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

CNC Setup, Operation & Production
• Set up, operate, and monitor CNC wood routing machines in accordance with work instructions and production schedules.
• Load and unload materials safely, ensuring proper fixturing, alignment, and machine readiness.
• Troubleshoot operating issues, perform basic program adjustments, and escalate complex problems as needed.
• Achieve or exceed established production targets while maintaining quality and safety standards.
• Accurately record production data, cycle times, and material usage.

Quality Control & Inspection
• Perform in-process and final inspections to ensure parts meet dimensional, finish, and quality specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints, router drawings, CAD/CAM outputs, and production documentation.
• Use precision measuring tools to verify tolerances and identify nonconforming components.
• Promptly report defects, variances, or process concerns to supervisors or team leads.

Maintenance & Equipment Care
• Perform routine cleaning, tool changes, and basic preventive maintenance.
• Maintain tooling, fixtures, and workstations in a safe, organized, and efficient condition.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to CNC processes, tooling, and workflow efficiency.

Teamwork & Collaboration
• Work collaboratively with production teammates to meet daily workflow and output goals.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, programmers, maintenance, and quality teams.
• Participate in training, cross-training, and ongoing skill development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability.
• Experience operating 3-axis CNC routers; wood fabrication experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and production documents.
• Solid math skills and attention to detail.
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of CNC router operating experience; wood CNC experience preferred.
• Ability to regularly lift, carry, push, or pull materials up to 35 pounds.
• Comfortable working around moving machinery in an industrial environment.

Position Expectations
• Consistently produce high-quality CNC-routed components.
• Meet production schedules and performance standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and professionalism.
• Contribute positively to team culture and continuous improvement efforts.

Physical Demands
This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive motion. The employee must regularly lift and carry materials up to 35 pounds and safely operate CNC routing equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work Environment
Work is performed in a manufacturing setting with exposure to noise, wood dust, temperature variations, and moving machinery. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn in accordance with company safety policies.

Why Join Palmer Hamilton?
Palmer Hamilton, LLC offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth within a team-focused, safety-driven manufacturing environment. Employees work with state-of-the-art CNC equipment and contribute to producing high-quality, design-forward products for educational spaces nationwide.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Palmer Hamilton, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.