CNC Router Setup & Operator – 1st Shift

Location: Northbrook, IL

Company: Atlas Fibre

About Atlas Fibre

Atlas Fibre has been manufacturing high-performance thermoset composite laminates and engineering plastics for more than 65 years. Our materials are used in demanding applications across the aerospace, defense, electrical, industrial, medical, and transportation industries. We are committed to quality, innovation, and providing our customers with precision-machined components they can rely on.

We are currently looking for an experienced CNC Router Setup & Operator to join our manufacturing team on 1st shift.

Position Summary

The CNC Router Setup & Operator is responsible for setting up and operating Northwood and Onsrud CNC routers to machine thermoset composite laminates and engineering plastics. This position requires someone who can independently perform machine setups, monitor production, inspect finished parts, and maintain high quality standards in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Please Note: This position requires at least one year of hands-on CNC router experience. Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, or saws alone does not meet the qualifications for this role.

Essential Responsibilities

• Set up and operate Northwood and Onsrud CNC routers.

• Read blueprints, job travelers, setup sheets, and work instructions.

• Load materials and secure workpieces using the appropriate workholding methods.

• Install tooling and complete machine setups for production jobs.

• Verify first-piece quality and make approved offset adjustments as needed.

• Monitor machine performance throughout production and ensure parts meet quality specifications.

• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring equipment.

• Machine materials including G-10, G-11, FR-4, thermoset composite laminates, and engineering plastics.

• Troubleshoot basic machining, tooling, and quality issues.

• Perform routine machine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance.

• Complete production and quality documentation accurately.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

• Follow all company safety policies and quality procedures.

• Work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to meet production schedules.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 1 year of hands-on CNC router setup and operating experience in a manufacturing environment.

• Experience operating CNC routers. Experience with Northwood, Onsrud, or similar CNC router equipment is strongly preferred.

• Ability to read blueprints and follow work instructions.

• Experience using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

• Basic computer and math skills.

• Reliable attendance and a strong commitment to safety and quality.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• Experience machining thermoset composite laminates, G-10, G-11, FR-4, fiberglass laminates, or engineering plastics.

• Experience working in an ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 manufacturing environment.

• Forklift experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Frequent bending, reaching, kneeling, and repetitive hand movements.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to safely work around manufacturing equipment.

Why Join Atlas Fibre?

Atlas Fibre offers a stable manufacturing environment where craftsmanship, teamwork, and quality are valued. We provide competitive pay based on experience, opportunities to grow your skills, and a comprehensive benefits package.

If you have CNC router experience and are looking to join a company with a long history of manufacturing excellence, we'd like to hear from you.