CNC Lathe Programmer – Grand Rapids Area

The Pivot Group Careers; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 57,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Grand Rapids, MI is actively connecting skilled CNC Lathe Programmers with local manufacturers. This role focuses on writing and editing CNC lathe programs, setting up lathes, and collaborating with machinists and engineers to optimize cycle times and yields.

Qualified candidates will have a high school diploma and hands-on machining experience, with strong capabilities in reading drawings, GD&T, G-code, and CAM software for turning.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent plus hands-on machining experience.
• Experience programming CNC lathes in a machine shop.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T callouts.
• Familiarity with G-code and CAM software for turning.
• Skill with precision measuring tools and tolerance checks.

Responsibilities

• Maintain program files and revision records for repeat jobs.
• Work with machinists and engineers to improve cycle times and yield.
• Follow safety rules and keep machines and work area clean.
• Write and edit CNC lathe programs from drawings and specifications.
• Set up lathes with tooling, fixtures, and offsets for each job.
• Prove out new programs and adjust speeds and feeds as needed.
• Troubleshoot program errors and machining problems during runs.
• Inspect first articles and in-process parts to confirm dimensions.

Skills

Read engineering drawings

GD&T callouts

G-code

CAM software for turning

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Fanuc controls

Okuma controls

Job description

Job Description:

CNC Lathe Programmer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $57,000 - $91,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for excelling as a cnc lathe programmer? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We collaborate with leading companies in the Grand Rapids area seeking experienced CNC Lathe Programmers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan's manufacturing regions. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

This posting covers CNC Lathe Programmer opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Grand Rapids in Kent County, within about 30 minutes of the city, including East Grand Rapids and Northview.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with multiple companies in the Grand Rapids area seeking experienced CNC Lathe Programmers. These organizations value long-term fit and look for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Usual Responsibilities

• Maintain program files and revision records for repeat jobs.
• Work with machinists and engineers to improve cycle times and yield.
• Follow safety rules and keep machines and work area clean.
• Write and edit CNC lathe programs from drawings and specifications.
• Set up lathes with tooling, fixtures, and offsets for each job.
• Prove out new programs and adjust speeds and feeds as needed.
• Troubleshoot program errors and machining problems during runs.
• Inspect first articles and in-process parts to confirm dimensions.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent plus hands-on machining experience.
• Experience programming CNC lathes in a machine shop.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T callouts.
• Familiarity with G-code and CAM software for turning.
• Skill with precision measuring tools and tolerance checks.
• Knowledge of tooling selection, speeds, and feeds.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with live tooling and multi-axis lathes.
• Familiarity with Fanuc or Okuma controls.
• Formal machining certificate or apprenticeship.
• Experience with lean or continuous improvement projects.
• Ability to program mills as well as lathes.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Manufacturing Technician, Tool and Die Machinist, Production Machinist, CAM Programmer, Machine Shop Supervisor, CNC Programmer, CNC Machinist, Lathe Operator, CNC Lathe Setup Operator, Machining Technician

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic - they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

Required Skills

Resume Offers Support Salary Hiring Partnerships Recruiting Compensation Quality Control Manufacturing Specifications Programming Troubleshooting Preparation Software Documentation Engineering Training

Salary Package:

$ 57,000.00 - 91,000.00 (US Dollar)