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CNC OPERATOR (TRAINEE)

CNC OPERATOR (TRAINEE)

locationHawthorne, CA, USA
PublishedPublished: 11/27/2025
CNC Operator
Full Time
1 - 2 years of experience
26-30 / hour

CNC Operator (Trainee)

📍 Hawthorne, CA
💵 $25–$30/hour + Stock Options
🏭 Freeform Technologies

Shape the Future of Metal Manufacturing.

Freeform is redefining what’s possible in manufacturing — building AI-driven, fully autonomous metal 3D printing factories that produce flawless parts at unprecedented speed and scale. Our proprietary technology combines advanced sensing, real-time controls, and data-driven learning to make high-volume additive manufacturing a reality.

If you’re looking to grow your career in CNC machining while being part of a company that’s transforming how the world makes things, this is your opportunity.

About the Role

As a CNC Operator (Trainee), you’ll work hands-on with advanced multi-axis CNC machines that turn 3D-printed metal parts into precision-finished components. You’ll support machining operations, part inspection, and continuous improvement projects while learning from an elite team of machinists, engineers, and technologists.

This is a great entry point into high-tech manufacturing — perfect for those with CNC training or 1+ year of experience who want to grow fast in a cutting-edge environment.

What You’ll Do

  • Operate and support CNC mills and lathes for precision finishing of 3D-printed metal parts
  • Perform setups, basic G-code edits, tool changes, and part inspections
  • Use manual tools (mills, lathes, bandsaws, grinders) to support fixture and part finishing
  • Apply precision measurement techniques (micrometers, calipers, gauges) to verify part quality
  • Maintain shop organization, troubleshoot machines, and support R&D process improvements
  • Contribute to a collaborative, safety-first, high-performance environment

What You Bring

  • 1+ year of CNC operation or completion of a formal machining program (NTMA, community college, etc.)
  • Eagerness to learn and grow in a high-tech manufacturing setting
  • Familiarity with CNC mills or lathes and a basic understanding of G-code
  • Experience interpreting blueprints and using precision measuring instruments
  • Comfort working around air, water, and inert gas systems
  • Ability to lift 30 lbs and stand for long periods; willing to work overtime when needed

Why You’ll Love Working Here

Freeform is a company of shareholders — every employee is part of our success. We’re not just building better machines; we’re building the future of manufacturing.

Benefits & Perks

  • 💰 Stock options in a fast-growing pre-IPO company
  • 🩺 100% paid premium health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • 💼 Traditional & Roth 401(k)
  • ✈️ Relocation assistance provided
  • 🏖️ Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • 👶 Generous paid parental leave
  • 🍽️ Free daily catered lunch & dinner + stocked kitchenette
  • 👕 Casual dress & flexible hours
  • 🎉 Regular team events & growth opportunities

Location

Our 35,000 sq. ft. facility in Hawthorne, CA is a state-of-the-art space for collaboration, R&D, and production — right in the heart of Los Angeles’ emerging tech ecosystem. Easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways.

Compensation

💵 $25–$30/hour, depending on experience.
Freeform offers a wide range to account for experience, education, and technical ability.

Join Us

At Freeform, you’ll help push the boundaries of what’s possible — from Earth to orbit. If you’re ready to scale innovation without limits, we’d love to hear from you.

Years of experience

  • 1 - 2 years of experience

Salary range

  • 26-30 / hour

Machine Type Programming Experience

  • 3 Axis Milling / Router
  • Lathe