CNC / VMC Machine Operator at Precision Engineering Manufacturing Firm

About the Role

Join a leading precision engineering and manufacturing company as a CNC / VMC Machine Operator located in Tambaram, Chennai. The position demands 5 to 10 years of hands-on experience operating CNC Turning and Vertical Machining Centre (VMC) machines to meet production demands efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate CNC Turning and VMC machines following defined production plans and CNC programs.
• Safely load raw materials and unload finished components.
• Maintain consistent machine performance and monitor operation during production.
• Meet daily output targets without compromising product quality and adhere to specified cycle times.
• Minimize downtime and report production progress to supervisors.
• Conduct first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments such as vernier calipers, micrometers, height, bore, and dial gauges.
• Ensure all parts conform to engineering drawing specifications and tolerance levels; segregate and report defects.
• Replace and adjust worn or damaged cutting tools, monitor tool life, and manage proper storage.
• Interpret engineering drawings, process sheets, setup instructions, and apply basic GD&T principles relevant to machining tasks.
• Perform routine cleaning and autonomous maintenance including checking coolant, lubrication, hydraulic oil, and air pressure levels.
• Report irregularities, alarms, or machine breakdowns promptly to maintenance.
• Adhere to plant safety protocols, use required Personal Protective Equipment, and uphold 5S housekeeping standards.
• Maintain safe handling of materials using approved equipment and methods.
• Accurately record production outputs, inspection findings, tool changes, downtime, and report production issues.
• Engage in continuous improvement initiatives such as Kaizen, Lean practices, TPM awareness to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Collaborate effectively with supervisors, quality control, tool room, and maintenance teams ensuring smooth shift transitions with full production status updates.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma in Mechanical, Production, or Automobile Engineering, or ITI certification in Turner, Machinist, Fitter, or Tool & Die Maker.
• Experience operating CNC Turning, VMC, or HMC machines particularly in automotive, aerospace, or precision engineering sectors is preferred.

Technical and Practical Skills

• Proficient with Fanuc, Siemens, or Mitsubishi CNC controls.
• Skilled at tool offset adjustments and tool changing techniques.
• Competent in reading engineering drawings and applying basic GD&T concepts.
• Experienced in using measuring instruments like vernier calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges and dial gauges for inspections.
• Knowledgeable of first-piece and during-process inspections.
• Basic familiarity with CNC program calling and machine cleaning procedures.
• Aware of autonomous maintenance, 5S standards, Kaizen, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).