At a Glance
Company:
Freeform Technologies
Location:
Hawthorne, CA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Pay Range:
$25 – $30/hour
(based on experience) + Stock Options
Shift:
Flexible
Overtime:
Yes, as needed
Experience Level:
Entry / Early-Career
Work Authorization:
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
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Why This Role Exists
This role exists because
Freeform is scaling production and building the next generation of machinists .
Freeform operates AI-driven, autonomous metal 3D printing factories that rely on
precision CNC machining
to turn printed metal into production-ready parts. As production volume increases, Freeform is investing in
training and developing CNC talent
from the ground up.
As a CNC Operator (Trainee), you’ll support machining and post-processing operations while learning how advanced CNC manufacturing works in a modern, production-scale environment.
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The Work You’ll Be Doing
In this role, you will:
Operate and support
CNC mills and lathes
used to finish metal 3D printed parts
Assist with
setups, tool changes, and basic G-code edits
Load, unload, and monitor machining cycles
Perform in-process and final inspections using
calipers, micrometers, and gauges
Use manual shop equipment (mills, lathes, bandsaws, grinders) for deburring and fixture support
Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe shop environment
Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement projects alongside machinists and engineers
This role is designed to
build strong CNC fundamentals , not just run buttons.
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Machines, Controls & Shop Environment
You’ll gain exposure to:
Machines:
CNC Mills and Lathes
Multi-axis CNC machining centers (as you progress)
Controls:
G-code–based CNC controls
Inspection Tools:
Calipers, micrometers, gauges
Visual and in-process inspection tools
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What We’re Looking For
Required:
1+ year
of CNC operation experience
OR
completion of a formal machining program
(NTMA, community college, or similar)
Basic understanding of CNC machining and G-code
Ability to read basic blueprints and follow work instructions
Willingness to learn, take feedback, and grow skills quickly
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs
Preferred (Not Required):
Experience with CNC mills or lathes
Familiarity with precision measuring tools
Exposure to metal additive manufacturing or post-processing
Comfortable working around shop utilities (air, water, inert gases)
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Materials You’ll Work With
Aluminum
Stainless Steel
Titanium
Nickel-based alloys
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Why Machinists Start Their Careers at Freeform
People choose Freeform because:
You learn CNC machining
the right way , in a modern shop
Real exposure to
advanced equipment and processes
Close mentorship from experienced machinists and engineers
Clear growth paths into
setup, programming, or advanced machining roles
Competitive hourly pay
plus equity ownership
Clean, organized, state-of-the-art facility
Free meals, flexibility, and a team that wants you to succeed
This is a
career-launch role , not a dead-end operator position.
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Pay, Benefits & Schedule
Pay:
$25 – $30/hour (DOE)
Benefits Include:
Stock options in a
pre-IPO company
100% employer-paid
Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
Traditional & Roth
401(k)
Relocation assistance (if applicable)
Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Generous paid parental leave
Free daily catered lunch & dinner
Casual dress and flexible hours
Team events and ongoing training opportunities
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Apply
If you’re early in your CNC career and want to learn in one of the
most advanced manufacturing environments in the world , this role is built for you.
Apply directly through hireCNC
or save the job to come back later.