Department: Production / CNC Machining
Job Title: CNC Machine Operator – Automotive
Reports To: CNC Supervisor / Production Manager
Work Location: Al Kharj, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia
Industry: Automotive, Military Vehicles, Vehicle Armoring and Industrial Manufacturing
1. Job Purpose
To operate, set up, and monitor Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to manufacture precision components used in commercial, military, armored, and specialized vehicles. The role involves interpreting engineering drawings, loading materials, selecting tools, running approved CNC programs, inspecting machined components, and ensuring that all products meet specified dimensional tolerances, quality standards, and production requirements.
2. Key Responsibilities
CNC Machine Operation
Operate CNC machines, including CNC milling machines, turning machines, drilling machines, and machining centers, according to assigned production requirements.
Manufacture automotive components, brackets, mounting plates, shafts, housings, and other precision mechanical parts.
Load and secure raw materials, workpieces, and fixtures according to approved setup instructions.
Select and install appropriate cutting tools, inserts, tool holders, and machining accessories.
Load and run approved CNC programs and monitor machine performance throughout the production cycle.
Adjust approved machining parameters, such as cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut, within authorized limits.
Monitor machine operations to identify abnormal vibration, tool wear, overheating, or machining defects.
Ensure that components are manufactured according to approved drawings and production instructions.
Automotive and Specialized Vehicle Component Manufacturing
Machine components used in vehicle chassis, mechanical assemblies, mounting systems, and specialized automotive equipment.
Manufacture components for military, armored, and commercial vehicles in accordance with approved engineering specifications.
Support production of precision parts required for vehicle modifications, mechanical integration, and assembly.
Coordinate with engineering and production teams to clarify machining requirements and resolve manufacturing issues.
Maintain consistency and repeatability when producing components in batches.
Follow project-specific requirements for material identification, component traceability, and manufacturing documentation.
Drawing Interpretation and Machine Setup
Read and interpret engineering drawings, machining drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and technical specifications.
Identify material types, component dimensions, surface finish requirements, and machining allowances.
Set up workpieces, fixtures, machine offsets, and tools according to approved procedures.
Verify tool selection and machine setup before starting production.
Conduct trial runs and first-piece inspections before proceeding with batch manufacturing.
Identify machining problems and report drawing discrepancies or program errors to the CNC Supervisor.
Assist with approved setup improvements to increase machining accuracy and production efficiency.
Quality Control and Dimensional Inspection
Inspect machined components using vernier calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, bore gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
Verify dimensions, tolerances, hole positions, thread specifications, and surface finishes against approved drawings.
Conduct first-piece, in-process, and final dimensional checks as required.
Identify machining defects, tool marks, dimensional deviations, and surface imperfections.
Segregate non-conforming components and report quality issues to the supervisor.
Maintain inspection records and ensure component traceability where required.
Cooperate with Quality Control Inspectors during inspections and corrective actions.
Tooling, Maintenance, and Production Efficiency
Inspect cutting tools and replace worn or damaged tools according to approved procedures.
Perform routine machine cleaning and basic operator-level maintenance.
Monitor coolant levels, lubrication systems, and machine operating conditions.
Report equipment malfunctions, abnormal machine behavior, and maintenance requirements.
Maintain accurate production records, tool usage records, and job completion reports.
Minimize material waste, tool breakage, machine downtime, and rejected components.
Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient machining workstation.
Safety and Workplace Compliance
Follow CNC machine operating procedures, risk assessments, and workshop safety requirements.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Ensure that machine guards, safety interlocks, and emergency stops are functioning correctly.
Secure workpieces and tools properly before operating machinery.
Follow approved machine isolation procedures before cleaning or performing maintenance activities that require isolation.
Never bypass machine safety devices or attempt unauthorized repairs.
Handle metal chips, cutting fluids, and machining waste safely.
3. Qualifications and Experience
Technical certificate, vocational qualification, or diploma in CNC Machining, Mechanical Manufacturing, Precision Machining, or a related discipline.
Typically 2–5 years of practical experience operating CNC machines in manufacturing or industrial production.
Experience with CNC milling, turning, or machining centers is preferred.
Experience manufacturing automotive components, precision mechanical parts, or industrial equipment is an advantage.
Experience in military vehicle manufacturing or specialized vehicle production is desirable.
Ability to read engineering drawings and work within specified tolerances.
CNC operation, machine setup, or relevant technical certifications are desirable.
4. Technical Skills
Practical knowledge of CNC machine operation and machining processes.
Ability to load and execute approved CNC programs.
Knowledge of cutting tools, workholding fixtures, machining parameters, and tool offsets.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements.
Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments.
Understanding of metals, material properties, machining allowances, and surface finish requirements.
Familiarity with CNC controls such as FANUC, Siemens, or equivalent systems is an advantage.
Basic understanding of G-code and M-code is desirable.
Ability to identify machining defects and perform basic troubleshooting.
Knowledge of machine safety and preventive maintenance procedures.
5. Core Competencies
Technical aptitude and practical machine operation skills.
Attention to detail and dimensional accuracy.
Analytical thinking and problem-solving.
Ability to follow technical instructions and production schedules.
