CNC Lathe Set-up Technician

Utility Solutions, Inc.; Hickory, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Utility Solutions, Inc. in Hickory, NC is seeking a CNC Lathe Setup technician to efficiently set up and operate CNC machines per engineering drawings. The role reports to the production supervisor and requires coordinating tooling, offsets, and fixtures to ensure precision parts.

Essential candidates will have 2–5 years of relevant experience, familiarity with Haas or DMG Mori Mills, and solid blueprint reading skills. The position emphasizes safety, teamwork, and reliable production support.

Qualifications

• High School / GED required.
• Experience with Haas or DMG Mori Mills is a plus.
• Ability to set up 3-axis mills.
• 2–5 years related experience or training.
• Able to load/remove programs from CNC machines using a computer.
• Strong math skills: arithmetic and geometry.
• Knowledge of conventional measuring tools and techniques.
• Experience with machine shop tools and equipment.
• Ability to read blueprints and specifications.
• Basic understanding of CNC programming (G/M codes).
• Ability to set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines without assistance.
• Must be self-reliant and team-oriented.
• Strong listening and communication skills.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Attention to detail and safety-mindedness.

Responsibilities

• Select and install vises and fixtures for each job.
• Calibrate tools and set work offsets.
• Use an edge finder where needed.
• Change tooling when worn or broken.
• Prepare tooling for upcoming work orders.
• Troubleshoot issues affecting production.
• Load CNC machines as needed.
• Contribute to team objectives and complete other tasks.

Skills

CNC setup/operation

3-axis mills

G & M codes

Blueprint reading

Arithmetic & geometry

Tooling & fixtures

Teamwork

Safety orientation

Self-reliance

Problem-solving

Education

High School / GED

Tools

Haas CNC controls

DMG Mori Mills

Edge finder

Job description

Founded in 1990, Utility Solutions is a designer and manufacturer of hot-line tools and products for the electrical power industry. Our success is based on working as a team to deliver high-quality products and unsurpassed customer service. We believe that each team member contributes directly to our growth and success as a company. Come grow with us!

We are seeking a CNC Lathe Setup technician to join our team in Hickory, NC! This position is responsible for the efficient setup and operation of one or more assigned CNC machines to produce parts in accordance with engineering drawings and other specifications provided by engineering. This position reports to the production supervisor.

Essential Job Functions:

• Select and install the correct vises and fixtures for each job
• Calibrate tools and make work offsets
• Ability to utilize an edge finder
• Change broken/worn tooling on machines as needed
• Prepare tooling for upcoming work orders
• Problem-solve any issues that impact production
• Load CNC machines as needed
• Contributes to team effort by accomplishing other tasks as needed

Required Skills/Education:

• High School / GED
• Experience with Haas or DMG Mori Mills is a plus
• Ability to set up 3-axis mills
• Two to five years related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Be able to use a computer to load/remove programs from CNC machines
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic and geometric calculations
• Comprehensive understanding of conventional measuring tools and techniques, to assure compliance with technical specifications
• Comprehensive knowledge of machine shop tools and equipment.
• Ability to read and comprehend blueprints and specifications provided by engineering
• Basic understanding of CNC machine tool program language (G and M codes)
• Ability to set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC Machines without assistance
• Must be self-reliant
• Must have the ability to work in a team atmosphere to obtain common goals and objectives
• Demonstrate effective listening skills
• Ability to read, comprehend, and follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to meet deadlines, concentrate,e and pay close attention to detail
• Strong safety orientation. Perform all tasks in a safe and responsible manner

Physical Requirements:

Machine shop work environment: Dust, grease, and metal shavings are common. Significant risks from equipment and the environment require constant care and vigilance. Be able to stand for long periods. Lift and hold up to 50 lbs.

Schedule: Monday-Thursday 6:00am-4:30pm

Pay Rate: $24-32/hr