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5-Axis CNC Operator

Sandvik · Menomonee Falls, WI · Full time

Posted Jul 15, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you found a quality problem and brought it to a programmer or supervisor.

What they are checking: Whether they communicate quality issues quickly, which the posting expects from operators.

Tell me about a time you were proud of the quality of something you made.

What they are checking: Whether they take pride in precision work, which matters for premium cutting tools.

What would you do

You notice small chips on the cutting edge of several tools in a run. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they stop and find the cause, like wheel condition or feeds, instead of letting bad tools pile up.

About the work

This role grinds carbide, carbide-tipped and HSS cutting tools on 5-axis CNC tool grinders. What grinders and controls have you run?

What they are checking: Whether they have real tool grinding experience, which differs a lot from general CNC milling or turning.

Walk me through how you set up a 5-axis grinder for a new cutting tool job.

What they are checking: Whether they know wheel selection, workholding and probing steps that lead to a good first part.

How do you set and adjust offsets when a tool is coming out a little off size?

What they are checking: Whether they understand offsets and wheel wear, which the posting lists as a core responsibility.

What measuring tools do you use to inspect a finished cutting tool, and what are you checking?

What they are checking: Whether they know how to verify diameters, angles and edges with tools like optical comparators or Zoller systems.

How comfortable are you reading blueprints for cutting tools with tight tolerances?

What they are checking: Whether they can read detailed prints accurately, since small mistakes ruin expensive carbide.

How much programming have you done on a tool grinder, and how do you check a program before running it?

What they are checking: Whether they can program safely and verify before cutting, avoiding crashes and scrapped parts.

What do you check on your machine at the start of each shift?

What they are checking: Whether they keep daily checks, which the posting lists to keep machines running reliably.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at Sandvik from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

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The full job description

As published by Sandvik.

Job Title: 5-Axis CNC Operator Department: Production Reports to: Director of Manufacturing Classification: Non-Exempt Location: Menomonee Falls, WI Shift: 2nd Job Summary: The 5-Axis CNC Operator will be responsible for producing premium quality, high precision carbide, carbide -tipped, and HSS cutting tools using 5-Axis CNC tool grinding machines and programs. Facilitates and operates CNC machines by programming, set ting up the CNC machine , operating the CNC machine, inspecting tools for visible flaws , and correcting quality issues to ensure a consistent product. Supervisory Responsibilities: • None Duties/Responsibilities: • Responsible for the setup and offsets as required . • Ability to accurately read blueprints. • Inspect tools for defects using quality control tools. • Responsible for accurate programming and machine operation. • Consistently evaluates the quality of the finished product coming off the CNC machine through visual inspection and the use of measurement tools. • Communicates quality issues to programmers and/or General Manager. • Pull material for up-coming jobs • Check machinery on a daily basis to ensure functionality. • Other duties assigned . Education and Experience: • High school diploma or general education degree (GED). • Certification from a qualified training institution in the field of machining is ideal but not required . • A well-rounded knowledge of cutting tools. • Previous manufacturing experience is preferred but not required . • Previous 5-Axis CNC Setup / Operator experience is preferred • Programming experience is preferred but not required . Required Skills/Abilities: • Strong math skills required to perform day to day operations including the ability to convert metric to inch and decimal to fraction. • Strong attention to detail. • Ability to work in a fast paced manufacturing environment. Physical Requirements: • Lightwork that includes bending into the machine, light lifting up to 20 pounds and some repetitive motions. • Prolonged periods of standing at a machine. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or any other factors prohibited by law.

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