CNC Operator II - 3rd Shift

At a Glance

Company: Kennametal
Location: La Vergne, TN
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: DOE
Shift: 3rd Shift Sunday-Thursday 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM
Shift Differential: Additional $3.00/hour on top of base pay
Overtime: As Needed
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2+ Years)
Published: June 24, 2026

Why This Role Exists

Kennametal continues to invest in manufacturing excellence and precision production capabilities that support critical industries around the world. This role plays an important part in producing high-quality precision components while helping maintain the company's commitment to safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

For more than 80 years, Kennametal has helped manufacturers build everything from aircraft and medical devices to energy and transportation systems. As a CNC Operator II, you'll contribute directly to that mission while working in a modern manufacturing environment focused on quality and innovation.

The Work You'll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines producing precision components
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, work instructions, and GD&T requirements
• Verify part quality through in-process inspections
• Measure components using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and other precision inspection equipment
• Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to maintain quality standards
• Ensure parts meet dimensional and tolerance requirements
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, and waste reduction
• Follow all company safety, quality, and manufacturing procedures
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment

Machines, Controls & Equipment

You'll work with equipment and technologies such as:

Machines

• CNC Mills
• CNC Lathes
• CNC Grinding Equipment
• Multi-Axis CNC Machines

Controls

• Haas
• Other CNC Control Platforms

Programming & Machining Knowledge

• Basic G-Code Understanding
• CNC Setup and Operation
• Tooling Selection
• Feeds and Speeds Optimization

Inspection Equipment

• Micrometers
• Calipers
• Height Gauges
• Precision Measurement Tools

Materials You May Work With

Depending on production requirements, materials may include:

• Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Aluminum
• Specialty Alloys
• Other precision manufacturing materials

What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications

• 2+ years of CNC machining experience
• Experience operating CNC milling, turning, or grinding equipment
• Strong understanding of machining fundamentals
• Knowledge of tooling, feeds, speeds, and setup processes
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
• Experience performing quality inspections and verifying tight tolerances
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in 4-axis or 5-axis machining environments
• Basic G-code programming knowledge
• Experience with Haas, Penta, Combi, or similar CNC platforms
• Aerospace, medical, defense, or other precision manufacturing experience

Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose Kennametal because of:

• A global manufacturing leader with more than 80 years of industry success
• Modern manufacturing equipment and technology
• Strong culture built around accountability and continuous improvement
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• Clean, organized, safety-focused work environment
• Team-oriented culture where every employee's contribution matters
• Exposure to precision manufacturing supporting critical industries worldwide

Pay, Benefits & SchedulePay

Competitive Compensation - DOE

Additional Pay

• $3.00/hour 3rd Shift Differential

Benefits

Kennametal offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement savings programs
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid leave programs
• Employee recognition and awards programs
• Career development opportunities
• Wellness resources and support programs

Schedule

3rd Shift

• Sunday-Thursday
• 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM

Overtime

• Available as business needs require

About Kennametal

For more than eight decades, Kennametal has helped manufacturers around the world produce with greater precision, productivity, and efficiency. The company serves industries including aerospace, transportation, medical, energy, and general engineering.

Kennametal's culture is guided by five core beliefs:

• Customer First
• Everyone Matters
• Own It
• Be Bold
• Focus Now

These principles drive innovation, accountability, and operational excellence across the organization.

Apply Today

Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.

Apply now or save this job to review later.