CNC Operator I

Kershaw Equipment, located in Montgomery, AL, is a leader in rail maintenance and vegetation management production and a worldwide supplier of maintenance-of-way equipment. Built on our strong commitment to our customers, our company supplies machines to Class I railroads, transit lines and short lines, and many contractors around the globe. Kershaw is part of The Heico Companies LLC, a parent holding company comprised of more than 40 businesses involved in manufacturing, construction, and industrial services. Kershaw joins forces with heavy equipment brands Pettibone, BARKO, and ARDCO as part of the Heavy Equipment Segment of The Applied Solutions Group.

Responsibilities

•  Operate assigned CNC machinery using pre‑programmed computer software to control grinders, lathes, mills, routers, and other equipment used to cut, drill, grind, and shape materials.

• Operate machinery and equipment according to established work instructions.

• Troubleshoot issues, perform routine and minor maintenance, and submit work orders for additional maintenance needs.

•  Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, engineering change orders, and job orders to determine product specifications and tooling requirements.

• Follow reporting and recordkeeping procedures; report issues to supervisors or leads.

• Clean machinery and maintain a clean, organized work area.

•  Detect and report defective materials or questionable conditions to management.

•  Maintain equipment and work areas in accordance with prescribed safety procedures.

• Assist in other work areas as directed by the department supervisor.

• Set X, Y, and Z coordinates for CNC operations.

• Apply basic understanding of G‑code and M‑code in programming and adjustments.

• Demonstrate general understanding of electrical standards related to CNC equipment.

•   Perform and document preventive maintenance on CNC equipment.

•   Serve as lead programmer for various CNC equipment.

•  Train others on proper machine setup and operation in a safe and efficient manner. 

Qualifications, Experience, Education
• Skill Level I – 0-2 years of experience/Technical Degree.
Preferred Skills:

•  Experience using hand tools, pneumatic impact tools, and overhead cranes.
•  Experience in Lean manufacturing, 6S, Safety, Quality, On‑Time Delivery, and Cost improvement environments.

•  Knowledge of ISO 9001 and Quality Management Systems.

•  Basic computer proficiency.

• Understanding of CNC program code is a plus.

•  Strong mathematical, mechanical, and technical aptitude.

Essential and Physical Functions:

• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs repeatedly.

•  Frequent standing, kneeling, squatting, stooping, overhead reaching, and climbing steps throughout the shift.

•  Must detect machining deficiencies and equipment malfunctions through sight and sound; must communicate effectively verbally and nonverbally.

•  Indoor, non‑temperature‑controlled environment with exposure to oils, lubricants, and machining substances.

•  Requires vigilance to ensure safety and sound decision‑making regarding machine operation.

•  Must follow all safety procedures, policies, and PPE requirements including hand, head, eye, ear, and foot protection.

The Heico Companies offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Multiple health plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois,
• Health Savings Account (with company match) or Flexible Spending Accounts, depending on selected health care plan,
• Two Dental plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois,
• Vision plan through VSP,
• Paid time Off (vacation and 11 paid holidays),
• 401k plan with company match,
• Life/AD&D insurances (both company-paid and additional voluntary options),
• Sick leave, Short-term Disability and Long-term Disability plans (company-paid),
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP, company-paid).
• Three Aflac plans
• Pet insurance plans
• Legal insurance
• Identity & Fraud Protection Plan.

EOE M/F/D/V