CNC Machinist
Also known as: CNC Operator · CNC Machine Operator
Sets up and operates CNC machines to machine metal parts to drawing, and monitors dimensional accuracy throughout the batch.
The CNC machinist sets up a computer-controlled machine and then monitors the quality of a production batch. Unlike a manual turner-miller who works conventionally by hand, this role centres on programming, setting up and checking rather than manual machining. Selection often tests programming knowledge of the machine, while the ability to independently measure and adjust a first part before an entire batch runs wrong is rarely tested.
Competencies to measure
These are the behavioural and ability constructs in this profile. Each one shows which hrmforce questionnaire measures it.
| Competencies to measure | Target level | hrmforce instrument | Assessment method | Behavioural anchor at target level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety awareness Competency (50-framework): Discipline Knockout | N4 | Big Fifty, Competency Check | Situational Judgement Test | Recognises unsafe situations in own process, intervenes and addresses colleagues without bringing the work to a halt. |
| Accuracy and attention to detail Competency (50-framework): Accuracy Knockout | N4 | Big Fifty, 360 Feedback | Personality questionnaire | Builds check moments into the own process, keeps track of errors and prevents repetition by adjusting the method. |
| Discipline and keeping commitments Competency (50-framework): Discipline | N3 | Big Fifty, 15PF, 360 Feedback | Personality questionnaire | Commits only to what is feasible, tracks own commitments and informs those involved as soon as a deadline comes under pressure. |
| Spatial ability | N3 | Ability Scan | Cognitive ability test | Derives the build up of the end product from a two dimensional drawing and reports where parts do not fit. |
| Demonstrating ownership Competency (50-framework): Results-Orientation | N3 | Big Fifty, 360 Feedback, Competency Check | 360-degree feedback | Repairs mistakes in own process unprompted, informs stakeholders and adjusts the working method to prevent a repeat. |
| Managing workload pressure Competency (50-framework): Stress resilience | N3 | Big Fifty, Competency Check, Pulse Survey | Structured interview | Cuts or shifts tasks independently when busy on the basis of importance, records this and discusses consequences with clients. |
Short profile
The ten heaviest skills in this profile. The full profile with every skill, behavioural anchor and assessment method is in the download.
| T | Skill | Target level | Weight | Knockout | Assessment method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K | Technical understanding | N4 | 5 | yes | Knowledge test |
| V | Measurement and calibration | N4 | 5 | yes | Work sample test |
| G | Safety awareness | N4 | 5 | yes | Situational Judgement Test |
| V | Mechanical maintenance | N3 | 5 | yes | Work sample test |
| V | Recognising and resolving machine faults | N3 | 5 | yes | Work sample test |
| G | Accuracy and attention to detail | N4 | 4 | yes | Personality questionnaire |
| V | Problem analysis | N3 | 4 | no | Assessment centre |
| V | Quality control | N3 | 4 | no | Work sample test |
| G | Discipline and keeping commitments | N3 | 4 | no | Personality questionnaire |
| V | Electrical engineering work | N3 | 4 | no | Certificate or diploma |
See all 24 skills in the full profile
Assessment instruments for this job
Knowledge test (client-specific)
Professional knowledge test, customized for each client
Work sample test
Representative work sample under standardized conditions
Competency Check
Behavioral-Level Competency Assessment
Big Fifty
Personality questionnaire, 150 items, 25 factors
360 Feedback
Multiple assessments based on behavioral anchors
Ability Scan
Aptitude Test: Verbal, Numerical, and Abstract Reasoning Skills
15PF
Personality Profile, a shorter alternative to the Big Fifty
Pulse Survey
Periodic measurement at the team and organizational levels
Portfolio
Evaluation of prior work against fixed criteria
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