CNC Setup/Operator Apprentice

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• Job Title: CNC Setup/Operator Apprentice
• Location: Waterbury, CT, US, 06705
• Business Unit: Haydon Kerk Pittman
• Posting Date: Nov 10, 2026

About the role

The CNC Setup/Operator Apprentice learns to produce precision machined parts through structured, supervised on-the-job training. The apprentice develops foundational CNC machining, blueprint reading, measurement, quality, safety, and equipment-care skills while supporting production requirements and progressing toward independent machine operation.

What you will do

• Participates in structured on-the-job training and completes assigned learning activities under the guidance of an experienced CNC operator, set-up operator, area leader, or supervisor.
• Learns to safely operate assigned CNC machining centers and CNC Swiss machines in accordance with standard work instructions.
• Assists with loading raw materials, unloading completed parts, and monitoring machine operation.
• Learns to read and apply information from blueprints, specification drawings, routers, quality plans, and written work instructions.
• Uses micrometers, digital calipers, snap gages, optical comparators, and other measuring instruments, with guidance, to verify part dimensions.
• Performs in-process inspections and accurately records inspection results as trained.
• Learns basic tooling, work-offset, and machine adjustments. Adjustments are made only within the apprentice’s demonstrated skill level and with required approval or supervision.
• Identifies and promptly communicates machine, tooling, material, quality, or safety concerns to the set-up operator, area leader, or supervisor.
• Learns to use QMA, MAZ, SPC, and other applicable production or quality databases.
• Performs assigned preventive maintenance tasks, including checking or topping off lubricants and coolants, after receiving training.
• Maintains a neat, clean, and organized work area by cleaning equipment, removing chips, and eliminating clutter.
• Follows all established safety, quality, environmental, and operating procedures, including required personal protective equipment and lockout/tagout requirements as applicable.
• Demonstrates reliable attendance, active participation, and satisfactory progress through the apprenticeship training plan.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the area leader or supervisor.
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to use AI tools to improve productivity, decision-making, work quality, and to reduce costs. The successful candidate must be able to identify appropriate AI use cases and critically evaluate AI-generated outputs.

What we are looking for

• High school diploma or GED required. Technical school coursework, manufacturing experience, or related vocational training is preferred but not required.
• 1–3 years of relevant manufacturing, machining, mechanical, or related experience preferred.
• Strong interest in learning CNC machining and building a career in manufacturing.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn the use of hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Basic math skills. Ability to learn shop math, geometry, and introductory trigonometry as required for the role.
• Ability to learn to read blueprints, specification drawings, quality plans, and written work instructions.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions, ask questions, accept coaching, and work safely as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills and the ability to learn production and quality systems.
• Ability to demonstrate increasing competency and independence as training milestones are completed.

Additional Characteristics

• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• This position requires the ability to lift more than 20 pounds occasionally, 10–20 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly.
• This position may require standing and/or sitting for long periods of time, up to 8 hours per day.
• This position requires good manual dexterity and visual acuity.
• This position may be exposed to industrial cleaning chemicals, coolants, and oils. Required training and personal protective equipment will be provided.

Compensation

• Employee Type: Hourly
• Currency: USD
• Salary Minimum: 40,000
• Salary Maximum: 60,000
• Incentive: 1289

Benefits

For more information on AMETEK's competitive benefits, please:

AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $7.5 billion.

AMETEK is committed to making a safer, sustainable, and more productive world a reality. We use differentiated technology solutions to solve our customers’ most complex challenges. We employ 22,000 colleagues, in 35 countries, that are grounded by our core values: Ethics and Integrity, Respect for the Individual, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Social Responsibility. AMETEK is a component of the S&P 500. Visit for more information.

• Nearest Major Market: New Haven
• Nearest Secondary Market: Hartford
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• Haydon Kerk Pittman