Stratus
CNC Operator, Sign Manufacturing
540 W. Lamont Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126
On-site · $17–$19/hr (as posted)
First seen by offpeak October 8, 2026
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Overview
Your Career In The Stratusphere
There’s never been a better time to join Stratus!
As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we help the world’s most recognized brands show up consistently, everywhere they operate. From exterior signage and interior branding to site refreshes, digital signage, and ongoing repair and maintenance, we bring brands to life where it matters most.
At Stratus, every employee plays a direct role in that impact. We operate with a strong commitment to customer service, a focus on execution, and a bias for action. If you're looking for a place where your contributions are visible, your growth is supported, and your work makes a real difference, you’ll find it here.
Job Summary: The Cut (CNC) Operator supports Interior Branding production by safely and accurately operating CNC routers, laser cutters, and related cutting equipment to produce components used in custom signage, wayfinding, and branded environments. This hands-on role is responsible for reviewing assigned production orders, verifying artwork and job specifications, setting up equipment and materials, completing ERP updates, and monitoring quality throughout the cutting process. You will work closely with Production Control, Design, Quality, and other production team members to keep work moving accurately and on schedule.
Safety is a core part of how we work. The Cut Operator is expected to bring a safety-first mindset to every task by following equipment procedures, using required PPE, maintaining a clean and organized work area, handling materials safely, and promptly reporting hazards, damaged equipment, or unsafe conditions.
Responsibilities
- Review assigned production orders, artwork, creative decks, and ERP specifications to confirm materials, dimensions, quantities, and cutting requirements before production begins.
- Set up and operate CNC routers, laser cutters, and related cutting equipment using approved software, tooling, and operating procedures.
- Load, position, and secure materials correctly and select appropriate machine settings, tooling, or programs based on job requirements.
- Monitor cutting quality and dimensional accuracy throughout production, identifying defects, material issues, or equipment concerns before work moves to the next stage.
- Complete required ERP job phases, production documentation, and status updates accurately and on time.
- Perform routine equipment cleaning, preventive maintenance, and basic troubleshooting, escalating mechanical, software, or quality issues when additional support is needed.
- Communicate job status, material needs, artwork discrepancies, delays, and production concerns with Production Control, Design, Quality, and other team members.
- Maintain organized inventory of cutting materials, tooling, consumables, and departmental supplies and notify leadership of replenishment needs.
- Follow all safety procedures, machine-guarding requirements, lockout/tagout practices where applicable, PPE requirements, and approved material-handling procedures.
- Support department priorities and demonstrate flexibility with work assignments or overtime during peak production periods as needed.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training in manufacturing, machining, fabrication, or a related field is preferred.
- Previous experience operating CNC, laser cutting, routing, fabrication, or similar production equipment preferred.
- Basic computer skills and ability to learn equipment software, ERP systems, and production tracking tools.
- Ability to read and follow production orders, dimensions, drawings, artwork, and work instructions accurately.
- Strong attention to detail with a commitment to quality, dimensional accuracy, and completing work correctly the first time.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to perform routine equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills with the ability to adapt to changing production priorities.
- Demonstrated commitment to safe work practices, proper PPE use, equipment safety, good housekeeping, and timely reporting of hazards or unsafe conditions.
- Ability to stand and move throughout the production area for extended periods and safely lift, position, and handle production materials as required.
What We Offer
Culture & Growth
- Supportive, collaborative work environment
- Career growth and advancement opportunities
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Regular coaching, feedback, and mentorship to support growth
Health & Wellbeing
- Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
- Health Savings Accounts with employer contributions
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
- Employee Assistance Program
Financial Security
- Weekly pay schedule
- 401(k) with employer match
- Company-paid life insurance
- Company-paid short- and long-term disability coverage
Work-Life Balance
- Generous paid time off and company holidays
- Volunteer Time Off
- Paid parental leave
Pay Transparency
$17.00 - $19.00 Hourly
This range reflects the anticipated compensation for this role at the time of posting. Actual pay may vary based on factors such as job-related skills, experience, education, location, and business needs. This position may also be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation based on the nature of the position, individual, department, and/or company performance.
Work Environment
This role operates in an active warehouse and shipping environment and requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, carrying, and material handling throughout the workday. The position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and may involve operating forklifts and pallet jacks, loading and unloading shipments, and working around moving equipment and delivery vehicles. Employees are expected to follow all applicable safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment.
Pre-Employment Requirements
All offers of employment with Stratus are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, in accordance with applicable laws. For certain roles, including those designated as safety-sensitive or regulated positions, employment may also be contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening and/or other regulatory requirements.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
Stratus is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Qualified applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or certain state or local laws. Please contact people.culture@onestratus.com if you need an accommodation due to a disability to complete an application, job interview, and/or to otherwise participate in the hiring process. This email does not respond to non-accommodations related requests.
Additional Information
This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all duties or responsibilities. Responsibilities may change at any time based on the needs of Stratus.