CNC Operator II - Entry-US-2nd Shift

🔍 At a glance
Company: Kennametal
Location: La Vergne, TN 37086, USA
Job Type: Full Time
Shift: 2nd Shift — Monday-Friday, 3:00 PM-11:00 PM (+$2.00/hr shift differential)
Experience: 2+ years of CNC machining experience
Machines: EWAG Compact and EWAG Linear end-form grinders, Haas equipment

Why this job is worth considering

Kennametal's La Vergne, TN plant is hiring a CNC Operator II to run 5-6 axis end-form grinding equipment in a temperature-controlled manufacturing environment. You'll set up and operate multiple CNC grinders producing precision cutting-tool components used across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering, and transportation applications. It's a hands-on machining role with real responsibility from day one — loading and off-loading inserts, running quality checks, and troubleshooting your own machines — and 2nd shift carries a $2.00/hr shift differential on top of base pay.

What you'll be doing

• Set up and operate CNC 4- and 5-axis end-form grinders, loading and off-loading inserts across multiple machines
• Perform quality inspections with precision measurement tools to confirm dimensions and visual characteristics
• Troubleshoot moderate to complex issues and adjust grinding programs to optimize cycle times
• Maintain tooling and equipment, resurfacing as needed to keep machines running at peak performance
• Document production information accurately and communicate safety, quality, and product issues across shifts

Machines, controls and software

You'll work on EWAG Compact and EWAG Linear end-form grinders and Haas equipment, all 5-6 axis machines running in a temperature-controlled shop. A basic understanding of G-code or CNC programming is preferred but not required.

What we're looking for

Required

• High school diploma or GED with strong attention to detail
• 2+ years of CNC machining experience (milling, turning, or grinding)
• Solid understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, feeds/speeds, and setup processes
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T specifications, and work instructions
• Comfortable standing for extended periods and able to lift up to 33 pounds
• Strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to safety procedures

Preferred

• Basic understanding of G-code or CNC programming
• Experience with Penta, Haas, Combi, or similar platforms

Pay, benefits and schedule

Schedule is Monday-Friday, 3:00 PM-11:00 PM, with a $2.00/hr shift differential for 2nd shift. Kennametal has not published a base pay range for this role on hireCNC; ask about current pay during the application process.

About Kennametal and apply

Kennametal Inc. is a global industrial technology leader with more than 85 years in materials science, tooling, and wear-resistant solutions, serving aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering, and transportation customers worldwide. The La Vergne, TN facility is part of that network, producing precision-ground components used across those industries. Kennametal is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Ready to apply? Use the apply link to go directly to Kennametal's careers site for this role.