CNC operator job description template
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) operators set up, program, and operate precision machinery to manufacture metal and plastic components for automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment sectors. India's manufacturing sector is projected to add 78 lakh new jobs by 2030, driven by the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the expansion of auto component, electronics, and EV manufacturing clusters. Use our CNC operator job description template to attract skilled machine operators. It covers key responsibilities, required skills, Indian education requirements, salary insights, and the selection process.
Job title:
CNC Operator
Location:
Pune, Maharashtra (or Chennai / Bengaluru / Gurugram / Ahmedabad - manufacturing cluster)
Job type:
Full-time, Permanent
Reports to:
Production Supervisor / Shop Floor Manager
Experience:
1-5 years
Employment type:
Permanent
About the role
We are looking for experienced CNC Operators to join our manufacturing plant producing precision auto components. You will set up, operate, and monitor CNC machines (turning, milling, grinding) to produce components within specified tolerances. This role requires knowledge of G-code and M-code programming, tool offset setting, and quality inspection using micrometres, callipers, and gauges. We prefer candidates holding an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) certificate (Machinist / Turner / Fitter) or a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
About the company: - Established: 1995 - Employees: 5,000+ - Industry: Manufacturing (automotive components and precision engineering) - Certifications: IATF 16949 (automotive quality), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety) - Presence: 4 manufacturing plants in Pune, Chennai, Gurugram, and Ahmedabad - Known for: Tier-1 supplier to Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Honda; annual turnover of 1,800+ crore; exported to 15+ countries
CNC operator roles and responsibilities - Set up CNC machines (Fanuc, Siemens, or Mitsubishi controls) - install and align workpieces, select and mount cutting tools, set tool offsets and work coordinates - Load and execute CNC programs (G-code and M-code); make minor program adjustments for tool wear compensation - Monitor machine operations - adjust feeds, speeds, and coolant flow to maintain surface finish and dimensional accuracy - Inspect finished components using precision measuring instruments (micrometres, Vernier callipers, bore gauges, CMM for critical dimensions) - Perform first-off inspection before batch production; document inspection results in the quality register - Change cutting tools based on tool life monitoring; report tool breakage or abnormal wear to the supervisor - Maintain machine cleanliness and report mechanical or electrical issues to the maintenance team - Follow safety protocols - proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots), lockout-tagout procedures, and chip handling - Maintain production logs - part count, reject quantity, machine downtime, and reason code for each shift
CNC operator qualifications and skills - Hands-on experience with CNC turning and milling centres (Fanuc controls preferred; Siemens and Mitsubishi also accepted) - Ability to read engineering drawings and interpret GD&T symbols (flatness, concentricity, surface finish, positional tolerance) - Proficiency with precision measuring instruments (outside micrometre, Vernier calliper, bore gauge, height gauge, V-block) - Basic understanding of cutting tool geometry, insert grades, and cutting parameters (speed, feed, depth of cut) - Knowledge of G-code and M-code programming - ability to edit programs at the machine control panel - Good mathematical ability for calculating speeds, feeds, and dimensional tolerances - Understanding of quality standards - IATF 16949, SPC, and process capability (Cp, Cpk) - Physical fitness for standing long hours and handling heavy workpieces (up to 10-15 kg with manual handling aids) - ITI (Machinist / Turner / Fitter) or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
Education and Experience Requirements - Degree: ITI (NCVT/SCVT) in Machinist, Turner, or Fitter trades - 1-2 year certificate - Diploma in Mechanical / Production Engineering (3 years) preferred for advanced CNC programming roles - Minimum 50% in ITI / Diploma - 1-5 years of experience operating CNC machines in a manufacturing or auto component environment - Fresher ITI pass-outs with CNC internship experience may be considered for junior operator roles - Certification in CNC programming (Fanuc / Siemens) is a strong plus
CNC operator average salary
In India, CNC Operators earn 2-4.5 Lakhs Per Annum (LPA) Cost to Company (CTC) depending on experience, machine type (basic lathe vs 5-axis milling), and city. Pune and Chennai manufacturing clusters pay 2.5-4 LPA for experienced operators. CNC programmers and setup operators with 5+ years earn 4.5-7 LPA. 5-axis machine operators command a 20-30% premium.
Source: TeamLease Employment Outlook 2025; Indeed India Salary Data 2025.
Benefits - CTC includes: Basic + HRA + Shift allowance + Production incentive (monthly, based on output and quality) - Statutory: Provident Fund (PF), Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) (if gross <=21,000/month), Gratuity (payable after 5 years), Bonus Act compliance (8.33% minimum) - Additional: Group medical insurance (self + family), accidental insurance (mandatory for shop floor roles), annual health check-up - Perks: Uniform and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided, subsidised cafeteria, transport allowance, annual bonus (Diwali) - Growth path: CNC Operator -> Senior Operator -> CNC Programmer -> Production Supervisor -> Shop Floor Manager
Other details - Probation period: 3-6 months - Notice period: 30 days (15 days during probation) - Immediate joiners preferred: Yes - Bond / Service agreement: None typically for operator roles - Working days: 6 days a week (Sunday off; some plants operate 6-3-3 rotating shift pattern with weekly off) - Work mode: Work from Plant (on-site, shop floor) - Shifts: Rotational shifts - General (8 AM-5 PM), Afternoon (4 PM-1 AM), Night (12 AM-8 AM). Night shift allowance applies. - Relocation support: Not provided; candidates must be local to the plant city
Selection process
1. Resume screening: Based on ITI/Diploma qualification, CNC experience, and machine types operated
2. Practical test: 60-minute hands-on test - set up a CNC turning or milling machine, load program, set offsets, machine a test component, and inspect using measuring instruments
3. Technical interview: 30-minute interview covering G-code/M-code knowledge, tool selection, cutting parameters, GD&T reading, and quality standards
4. HR interview: Shift preference, salary discussion, notice period
5. Document verification: ITI/Diploma certificates, mark sheets, previous experience letters, ID proof
6. Medical check-up: Vision test (colour blindness check for quality inspection roles), physical fitness assessment
How to apply - Platform: Apply through Naukri, Indeed, TeamLease, or the company's careers portal - Documents: Resume, ITI/Diploma certificates, mark sheets, previous experience letters, ID proof (Aadhaar), 2 passport-size photographs - Timeline: Rolling applications; practical test scheduled within 5 working days
Frequently asked questions
1. What does a CNC Operator do in India?
A CNC Operator sets up and runs computer-controlled machines that cut, shape, and finish metal or plastic components. They load programs, adjust tooling, inspect parts with micrometers, and maintain quality standards. The role is central to automotive, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing.
2. What qualifications do I need to become a CNC Operator in India?
ITI in Machinist, Turner, or Fitter (NCVT/SCVT) is the standard qualification. Diploma in Mechanical Engineering is preferred for programming roles. Experience with Fanuc-controlled machines is most valued. Knowledge of G-code, GD&T, and precision measurement is expected.
3. What is the average salary of a CNC Operator in India?
Entry-level operators earn 1.8-2.5 Lakhs Per Annum (LPA). Experienced operators (3-5 years) earn 3-4.5 LPA. CNC programmers with setup expertise earn 4.5-7 LPA. 5-axis operators in aerospace earn 5-8 LPA. Night shift allowance adds 2,000-5,000 per month.
4. How can I hire the right CNC Operator in India?
Use a hands-on practical test (setup + machining + inspection) instead of interviews alone. Partner with ITI institutes for freshers. For experienced operators, verify the machine types (Fanuc vs Siemens) and component tolerances they have worked with. Prior IATF 16949 plant experience is a strong quality signal.