Overview
Trainee CNC Machinist – Contract Jobs in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa at ExecutivePlacements.com
Title: Trainee CNC Machinist – Contract
Company: ExecutivePlacements.com
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Recruiter:
Fempower
Job Ref:
4274290160
Date posted:
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Location:
Pretoria North, South Africa
SUMMARY:
POSITION INFO:
A trainee CNC machinist learns to operate and set up Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines — automated tools that cut, shape, and mill metal, plastic, or other materials based on programmed instructions.
Responsibilities will include:
Learning the basics
- Reading engineering drawings and technical blueprints
- Understanding materials, tolerances, and measurement tools (calipers, micrometers)
- Learning machine safety procedures
Machine operation
- Loading raw materials (stock) into machines
- Running pre-written CNC programs under supervision
- Monitoring machines during operation to catch issues
Setup & preparation
- Fitting and changing cutting tools
- Setting work offsets and tool offsets
- Clamping and positioning workpieces correctly
Quality control
- Inspecting finished parts against specifications
- Using measuring instruments to verify dimensions
- Identifying and reporting defects or out-of-tolerance parts
Programming (as they progress)
- Learning G-code (the language CNC machines use)
- Using CAM software to generate toolpaths
- Making minor program edits
General workshop duties
- Keeping the work area clean and organised
- Basic machine maintenance (lubrication, chip removal)
- Following health & safety regulations