CNC Machinist - Programming

Cogent Talent Solutions
Hickory, NC
On-site

Who this role is best for

Best suited to self-directed, technically proficient machinists with programming expertise working in precision manufacturing environments.

Best fit for

  • Candidates with 5+ years of hands-on machining experience in job-shops or precision manufacturing settings
    — “5+ years of hands-on machining experience in a job-shop or precision manufacturing environment.”
  • Individuals who can take ownership of complex jobs from print to finished part
    — “This role takes ownership of complex jobs from print to finished part.”
  • Candidates with strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills
    — “Read and interpret complex technical drawings, GD&T callouts, and tight tolerances.”

Things to consider

  • The role requires a valid driver's license, which may be a barrier for some applicants
    — “Must have valid driver's license”
  • The position involves exposure to moderate-to-loud noise and physical demands like lifting up to 50 lbs
    — “regularly exposed to moderate-to-loud noise, machine oil, coolant, metal chips, and dust”

How to stand out

  • Highlight experience with writing or editing CNC programs and maintaining tight tolerances
    — “Write or edit basic CNC programs and make offsets to maintain required tolerances.”
  • Demonstrate your ability to independently set up machines from scratch in your resume and interviews
    — “Complete setups from scratch without pre-built setups.”
  • Emphasize your ability to mentor and collaborate with less experienced machinists
    — “Mentor and assist less experienced machinists with setup and machining techniques.”
Pace · Fast PacedCollaboration · LowAutonomy · HighDecision Impact · Individual

Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.

What success looks like

  • Completed complex CNC jobs
  • Maintained high quality standards
Typical background
5+ years of machining experienceCNC programming expertise

Skills & requirements

Required

CNC ProgrammingBlueprint ReadingQuality Control

Preferred

CAM Software Experience

Stack & domain

CNC MillsCNC LathesManual MachinesGD&TPrecision Measurement And Inspection MethodsTeam-orientedWillingness To Share Knowledge And Assist OthersManufacturingPrecision Manufacturing

About the role

Original posting from Cogent Talent Solutions via Lever

The Machinist I is an experienced, self-sufficient craftsperson capable of independently setting up and running CNC and manual equipment with minimal supervision. This role takes ownership of complex jobs from print to finished part, holds tight tolerances, and serves as a technical resource for less experienced machinists on the floor. The ideal candidate is a skilled, self-directed tradesperson who works well in a small, fast-paced precision manufacturing team. This position reports to the Shop Foreman.

Key Responsibilities

Machining & Setup

Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, and water jet equipment independently.

Plan job sequencing and select tooling and fixturing for efficient, quality production.

Complete setups from scratch without pre-built setups.

Blueprint & Specification

Read and interpret complex technical drawings, GD&T callouts, and tight tolerances.

Write or edit basic CNC programs and make offsets to maintain required tolerances.

Quality & Coordination

Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, CMMs, and other inspection equipment.

Identify and communicate quality issues, tooling wear, and equipment concerns to the Shop Foreman.

Assist the Shop Foreman with scheduling input and job status updates.

Mentor and assist less experienced machinists with setup and machining techniques.

Shop Operations & Safety

Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.

Follow established safety procedures and proper PPE requirements.

Schedule:

Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Friday, 7:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Occasional overtime required

Compensation:

Compensation & Benefits

$22.00–$32.00 per hour, based on experience.

7 paid holidays and paid vacation.

Company-paid health/dental/vision insurance options available. - 100 percent paid by business!

Stable schedule with consistent Friday early release at 1:00 p.m.

Qualifications

Required

5+ years of hands-on machining experience in a job-shop or precision manufacturing environment.

Programming expertise is required.

Proficiency with CNC mills, CNC lathes, and manual machines.

Ability to independently set up machines from scratch.

Strong blueprint reading skills, including GD&T.

Experience with precision measurement and inspection methods.

Ability to work independently and manage time effectively to meet deadlines.

Team-oriented with a willingness to share knowledge and assist others.

Must have valid driver's license 

Preferred

CAM software experience, such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar.

Experience with heat treating tool steel.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position is based on the production floor of a machine shop. The employee is regularly exposed to moderate-to-loud noise, machine oil, coolant, metal chips, and dust. Appropriate PPE is provided and required.

The role requires standing for extended periods, bending, reaching, manual dexterity, and lifting or moving materials up to 50 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Source: Cogent Talent Solutions careers (Lever)

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