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CNC Mill Machinist

Flex · Buffalo Grove, IL · Full time

Posted Aug 31, 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 the most difficult part you've machined. What made it hard?

What they are checking: Whether they have handled complex precision work and can explain how they solved it.

Tell me about a time you crashed a machine or made a bad part. What did you learn?

What they are checking: Whether they own mistakes honestly, which matters in a shop where errors are expensive.

What would you do

A feature is coming out a few tenths oversize. What do you adjust and how?

What they are checking: Whether they understand offsets, tool wear and thermal growth well enough to correct accurately.

You think there's a faster way to run a job but it's not how it's always been done. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they contribute to continuous improvement through the right channels.

About the work

Walk me through setting up a CNC mill for a new job, from print to first part.

What they are checking: Whether they can set up independently, including work offsets, tool lengths and first-piece checks.

What controls have you run, and how comfortable are you editing a program at the machine?

What they are checking: Whether they can make safe adjustments at the control rather than waiting on a programmer for every change.

How do you read a drawing with GD&T callouts and make sure your setup meets them?

What they are checking: Whether they can interpret technical drawings, which the posting lists as a core duty.

What inspection tools do you use, and how do you check your parts during a run?

What they are checking: Whether they verify their own work and catch drift before making bad parts.

What routine maintenance do you do on your mill?

What they are checking: Whether they take care of the machine, since the role includes maintaining CNC mills.

How do you stay safe around a CNC mill, especially during setup?

What they are checking: Whether they respect the hazards and do not bypass guards or interlocks to save time.

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The full job description

As published by Flex.

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary. Job Summary At Flex, we welcome people of all backgrounds. Our employees thrive here by living our values: we support each other as we strive to find a better way, we move fast with discipline and purpose, and we do the right thing always. Through a respectful, inclusive and collaborative culture, a career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference, invest in your career growth and join our purpose -- to make great products that create value and improve people’s lives. Job Summary The CNC Mill Machinist will be based in Buffalo Grove, IL and reports to the Tooling Manager . This role is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC milling machines to manufacture precision components that meet engineering specifications and quality standards. The CNC Mill Machinist will interpret technical drawings, perform machine adjustments, conduct inspections, and support continuous improvement initiatives to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production operations. Principle Accountabilities • Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC milling machines to manufacture precision components according to specifications. • Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work instructions, and GD&T requirements. • Select and install appropriate tooling, fixtures, and machine offsets for production runs. • Edit and make minor adjustments to CNC programs to optimize machine performance and product quality. • Monitor machine operations and make necessary corrections to maintain dimensional accuracy and production efficiency. • Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and bore gauges. • Verify product conformance to engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality requirements. • Record production data, inspection results, and machine performance information accurately. • Troubleshoot machining issues and collaborate with engineering and quality teams to implement corrective actions. • Perform routine machine maintenance and ensure equipment remains in proper operating condition. • Identify opportunities for process improvements that increase productivity, reduce scrap, and improve quality. • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company standards. • Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives. • Assist in training and mentoring less experienced machinists as needed. • Follow all safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory requirements while performing assigned duties. • Operate and troubleshoot CNC milling machines while optimizing speeds, feeds, and machining processes. • Set up complex parts, fixtures, and tooling, and perform CNC program edits as required. • Select, install, and maintain milling cutters and tooling for precision machining applications. • Operate multiple CNC machines simultaneously while ensuring quality and production targets are met. • Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring equipment and advanced inspection techniques. • Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and 3D models to support machining and setup requirements. • Apply knowledge of injection molds and components while utilizing computer systems to support manufacturing operations. • Work independently with minimal supervision, perform preventive machine maintenance, cross-train team members, and maintain a highly organized work environment. Qualifications • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification in Machining Technology preferred. • Minimum 4 years of CNC milling experience in a manufacturing environment required. • Experience with Haas, Mazak, Mori Seiki, Okuma, or similar CNC milling equipment. • Experience on Makino, Yasda, Roders, and Mikron milling machines is preferred • Strong experience setting up and operating CNC vertical and horizontal milling machines. • Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications. • Proficient in the use of precision measuring equipment and inspection methods. • Working knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing). • Experience with machine offsets, tooling selection, speeds and feeds, and basic CNC program editing. • Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills. • Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies. • Computer proficiency and ability to accurately complete production and quality documentation. • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods while operating equipment. What you'll receive for the great work you provide: • Full range of medical, dental, and vision plans • Life Insurance • Short-term and Long-term Disability • Matching 401(k) Contributions • Vacation and Paid Sick Time • Tuition Reimbursement 
 Application Deadline: Applications for this job position will be accepted for at least five days following the job posting start date below and continuing until the end date below or until the position is filled. This posting may close sooner due to application volume. 

 The base pay range for this position is provided below. The final base rate offered will be determined using job-related, non-discriminatory criteria, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, geographic location, education, external market data, and internal equity. $31.04 USD - $42.68 USD Hourly Job Category Operations Relocation: Not eligible Is Sponsorship Available? No Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email accessibility@flex.com and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).

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