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Next. Career. Step.
We train and
develop people
A professional training to become a cutting machine operator at GDFT means to work in a small, closely cooperating team and be introduced to all technical and craft details of the trade. The buildup of knowledge and competence for a successful future performance will be achieved by utilizing this training approach. The job of a machine cutting operator is very diverse and constantly provides new challenges, due to its project-related nature.
Contact us if you want to learn more
about our job training opportunities.
What is the job of a cutting machine operator anyway?
Cutting machine operators manufacture parts – in our case mostly for laboratory and optics equipment. For that they utilize CNC controlled turning- and milling machines. The operators enter the manufacturing parameters, such as cutting data and programming cycles, into the machine interface – or retrieve already saved parameters from the machine’s memory. In addition, they must select the applicable tools and clamping devices for the job and install them during the machine set-up process. Thus, they select the correct tools, accurately clamp down the semi-finished metal products and start the turning or milling machine. Operators also must monitor every manufacturing step and measure the dimensions, tolerances and surface qualities per the required specifications. Another important part of the job is the regular inspection and maintenance of the machine equipment.
Professional training as a cutting machine operator
Those who are looking for a challenging, diversified, technical and craft profession are a perfect fit for the job of cutting machine operator. An affinity for subjects such as math, physics, IT and technology is advantageous. Applicants also need to bring attention to detail, precision, as well as visual thinking, manual dexterity and technical understanding to the table. Currently we are training four apprentices in our company – two on turning- and two on milling machines. For training purposes, we provide milling machine equipment by the company Heidenhain. The lathe-turning equipment is made by Siemens.
Job-training phases
The professional training to become a cutting machine operator takes 3.5 years to complete – and follows a dual system of training. It focuses on theoretical, as well as practical content. The training program is divided into the following phases:
Professional school:
The training requires attending a professional school, where theoretical knowledge is taught. It is here where apprentices learn to read technical drawings for example. They gain knowledge about materials and tools, as well as discipline-specific math and physics skills. Occupational safety and environmental protection are also among the content taught at school.
The company:
At the company training facilities the practical skills of the job are taught, such as basic crafting skills and knowledge. Apprentices learn to know the different machines and tools of the trade. Another important aspect of company-based training is attaining the competency of programming of CNC machine equipment. What is essential: We are working on real-life customer orders and trainees are honing their skills on the manufacture of parts and components per the requirements of the drawings and specifications.
Fields of specialization:
During the training process, the trainees can specialize in certain fields – for us that means lathe-turning or milling. In this training phase, they are being taught the techniques and procedures which are relevant to their specific field of study.
Final exam:
Starting at about the middle of the training program, trainees are being prepared for a final exam with part 1 and part 2. Each of these sections have a practical part – work samples made on machine equipment as well as a theoretical section, which requires technical knowledge.
Final exam IHK:
The exams are given by a certified auditor of the Industrie- und Handelskammer (IHK) Hannover. The exam questions in part 2 of the final exam are more advanced than those in part 1. At our company, we stive to optimally prepare our trainees for their written and practical sections of the exams.
Try-outs on the job
To pique interest in the job of a cutting machine operator is not only very important to us, but also for the entire industry. That is why we welcome interns, depending on our staffing resources. We also hold annual girls- and boys-days, where students have the opportunity to do a one-day internship at our company and to get to know us and the trade.
Career at GDFT
We regularly provide training programs for the job of machine cutting operator in order to actively counteract the enduring labor shortage in Germany. Actively engaged, motivated trainees with the required skills and exam results can look forward to being part of our team. We also always welcome initial job applications from skilled cutting machine operators. Our company offers a wide range of benefits, such as retirement contributions and other social benefits.
This is what to expect
from a training program or job at GDFT:
- Small, closely cooperating team
- Job training/ work on the control systems of the Heidenhain (milling) and Siemens (lathe) equipment
- Optimal preparation for the final exam to become a cutting machine operator
- Appreciation of our employees and (if feasible) consideration of individual family situations
- Vacation and Christmas pay
- Beverages, such as coffee or tea – provided for free