Manufacturing role • CNC operations • Germany projects
CNC Operator (CNC-Maschinenbediener)
CNC Operators keep production stable: they run machines safely, verify dimensions, and document quality checkpoints.
This page explains typical requirements and onboarding expectations for English-speaking candidates working on Germany-based projects with a Polish employer.
Language: English onboarding
Pay: gross (brutto)
Compliance: German minimum wage applies
Hiring rule: CV mandatory
Gross pay baseline
Statutory minimum (Germany)
From 01 January 2026, gross hourly pay cannot be below:
€13.90 / hour (gross)
Skilled CNC roles are often paid above the minimum depending on experience, shift pattern, and site rules.
Sectoral/collective agreements may set higher minimums for certain industries.
Role snapshot
Where CNC Operators add value
Production
Stable cycle, clean changeovers
Consistent output matters more than speed alone.
Quality
Measure, record, react early
Prevent scrap by catching deviations fast.
A typical shift starts with a quick handover, first-piece verification, and then disciplined monitoring:
tool wear, offsets, coolant, chip control, and dimensional checks at defined intervals.
What you will do
Core responsibilities (CNC Operator)
- Operate CNC milling and/or turning machines safely and consistently (machine type depends on project).
- Load parts, run approved programs, and follow the defined cycle and inspection plan.
- Measure parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges; confirm tolerances and surface/finish checks where required.
- Record quality results (first-piece checks, in-process measurements, nonconformities) per site procedure.
- Perform routine changeovers: tools/inserts, basic offsets, cleaning and chip removal, coolant level checks.
- Escalate deviations early (tool wear, dimensional drift, abnormal sound/vibration, scrap risk).
- Maintain workstation discipline: 5S, PPE, housekeeping, and safe handling of sharp/hot parts.
What this role is NOT (clarity)
On many projects, “CNC Operator” focuses on operation + measurement. Full programming or complex setups may belong to CNC Setters/Programmers.
If you can also set up machines or edit programs confidently, highlight it in your CV — it can expand your options.
Requirements
Selection criteria (detailed)
Hard skills (must-have)
- Practical CNC operation experience (documented projects are a strong advantage).
- Blueprint/technical drawing understanding: dimensions, tolerances, basic GD&T awareness.
- Confident use of measuring tools (caliper/micrometer/gauge) and accurate recording.
- Ability to follow work instructions precisely and keep consistent output for long runs.
Professional behavior (must-have)
- Safety mindset: PPE, machine guarding discipline, lockout awareness where applicable.
- Reliability in shifts: punctuality, stable performance, and calm problem reporting.
- Clean, structured work style: a controlled workstation reduces errors.
Language
English is used for onboarding and coordination. Basic German (A1–A2) is a strong advantage for safety briefings and shop-floor communication, but requirements vary by project.
Practical tip: Add a short “Machines & Controls” line in your CV (e.g., Siemens / Fanuc / Heidenhain, milling/turning, materials, typical tolerances).
This helps screening faster.
Candidate portrait
Short profile of a strong CNC Operator
The strongest candidates look “quietly professional”: they work clean, measure honestly, and communicate deviations early.
- Has real workshop rhythm: understands that consistency beats improvisation on production CNC.
- Can describe past work clearly (machines, parts, tolerances, measurement routine).
- Does not hide mistakes — escalates drift and prevents scrap.
- Respects safety and process; keeps a stable pace on long runs.
- Shows readiness for shift work and structured reporting.
Documents
Prepare these before applying
- CV in English (PDF preferred) + contact details (mandatory).
- Passport scan + your current location (country/city).
- Certificates/qualifications (if any) and a short list of machines/controls used.
- Project summary: dates, tasks, materials, measurement tools, typical tolerances.
Strong documentation reduces verification time and improves response rates.
Working in Germany with a Polish employer
Typical working conditions (practical, compliance-first)
Many Germany projects are delivered through a Polish employer model (employment in Poland, work performed in Germany).
The goal is simple: clear contracts, documented working time, and pay that meets German rules.
Pay & payroll clarity
Gross pay (brutto) with traceable hours
Hours are tracked; pay is calculated from documented working time, including applicable premiums per project rules.
Posting essentials
A1 + project documentation
For EU postings, projects typically require posting documentation and proof of social security coverage (A1).
Shop-floor reality
Shifts, induction, PPE
Expect safety induction, workstation rules, and a measurement plan. PPE requirements are non-negotiable.
Shift patterns (typical)
- 2-shift or 3-shift rotation depending on production load.
- Overtime may occur during peaks; rules depend on the site and assignment.
- Shift allowances/premiums (if applicable) are calculated on top of the agreed gross base.
Accommodation & logistics (project-based)
- Accommodation support may be available depending on location and contract structure.
- Travel plan and first-day check-in are coordinated after document verification.
- You must be able to follow house rules, safety rules, and attendance discipline.
Important: This page is informational. Final terms depend on the specific project, your profile, and documented eligibility.
How to apply
Fast, structured application
- Create/Upload your CV: mavial.pl/en/cv.html
- Send your profile via contact page: mavial.pl/kontakt.html
- We screen fit, verify documents, and contact you if your profile matches active demand.
No CV — no review. This rule protects processing time and keeps screening consistent.
Work authorization (non-EU)
Reality check: Germany requires a legal route
For non-EU candidates, language alone is not sufficient. Skilled profiles typically have more realistic options.
Eligibility depends on your nationality, documents, and the project’s legal pathway.
- Skilled worker route (§18a): more realistic when qualifications can be recognized and match the role.
- Project constraints: some sites accept only profiles with proven experience and verifiable documents.
- Timing: verification and onboarding are document-driven; incomplete files slow everything down.
If you also need clarity on Polish-side permits under a Polish contract, use:
mavial.pl/zezwolenie.html
FAQ (unique to this role)
CNC Operator — common questions
Do I need German?
Not always. English onboarding is possible on some projects, but basic German helps with safety briefings and daily coordination.
Will I be asked to program CNC?
Usually CNC Operators run approved programs and follow measurement plans. If you can also set up or edit programs, highlight it in your CV.
How is pay calculated?
Pay is based on documented working time. Shift premiums (if applicable) are added according to the project’s rules. All figures are gross (brutto).
What is checked during selection?
Real CNC experience, measurement discipline, ability to follow instructions, and reliable shift behavior. Clear project evidence improves your chances.
If you want faster screening, add a “Machines & Controls” line in your CV (Siemens/Fanuc/Heidenhain, milling/turning, materials, tolerance range, measurement tools).