CNC Saw Operator (Computer Numerical Controlled Saw Operator)
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and TendersDescription
Set up, program, and operate CNC saws to cut metals, plastics, wood, or stone to specified lengths and tolerances per drawings and cut lists; verify quality, optimize yield, and maintain equipment and safety.
- • Read and interpret work orders, drawings, and cut lists to determine setups, blade type, and tolerances.
- • Load, call up, and edit CNC programs; set work offsets, part counts, and cutting parameters.
- • Install and align saw blades, guides, clamps, vises, and material stops per specifications.
- • Perform test cuts to verify setups and adjust offsets, feed rates, and blade speed as needed.
- • Measure and inspect cut parts with calipers, micrometers, squares, or tape measures to confirm tolerances.
- • Monitor machine operation, alarms, and tool wear; make in-process adjustments to maintain quality.
- • Start and operate CNC saws using the HMI, push buttons, or foot switches.
- • Load, feed, and position bar stock, tubing, plate, or panels using conveyors, rollers, or automatic feeders.
- • Optimize cut sequences or nesting to reduce scrap and improve throughput when applicable.
- • Remove nonconforming material and correct setups or replace blades to meet specifications.
- • Tag, stack, and sort cut parts by job, size, and lot for downstream processing or shipping.
- • Maintain production and quality records, including quantities, lengths, and material traceability.
- • Replace and tension saw blades; set blade tracking and guide alignment.
- • Maintain and replenish coolants and lubricants; check concentration and flow.
- • Clean machines, chip conveyors, and work areas; perform routine preventive maintenance.
- • Move raw stock and finished parts using carts, pallet jacks, or forklifts.
- • Mark parts with identifiers, orientation, or cut lines using markers or scribes as required.
- • Verify material type and size against work orders and inventory labels before cutting.
- • Ensure guards and safety devices are in place; follow lockout/tagout and PPE requirements.
- • Coordinate with supervisors or team members to prioritize jobs and resolve issues.
- • Troubleshoot blade drift, chatter, misfeeds, or jams and adjust guides, speeds, or feeds.
- • Calibrate or zero length gauges, laser measurement, or automatic stop systems.
- • Maintain inventory of blades, guides, coolants, and other consumables; request replenishment.
- • Train or assist junior operators on CNC saw setup, operation, and safety procedures.
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
