CNC Machinist - Setup, Precision, Mentoring

Cogent Analytics; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 30,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid holidays

Paid vacation

Friday early release

Job summary

Cogent Analytics is seeking an experienced Machinist I to independently set up and run CNC mills, lathes, and water jet equipment on a production floor. You will own complex jobs from print to finished part, read tight GD&T specifications, and guide less-experienced machinists in setup and technique.

You will plan tooling, manage time effectively, and maintain quality through precise measurement and inspection. A strong, self-directed candidate thrives in a small, fast-paced shop environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on machining experience in a job-shop or precision manufacturing environment.
• 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 to meet deadlines.
• Team-oriented with a willingness to share knowledge and assist others.
• Must have valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring instruments.
• 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.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Follow established safety procedures and proper PPE requirements.

Skills

machining experience

CNC programming

GD&T reading

Blueprint reading

independent setup

quality inspection

team mentorship

Tools

Mastercam

Fusion 360

Job description

Cogent Analytics is seeking an experienced Machinist I to independently set up and run CNC mills, lathes, and water jet equipment on a production floor. You will own complex jobs from print to finished part, read tight GD&T specifications, and guide less-experienced machinists in setup and technique.

You will plan tooling, manage time effectively, and maintain quality through precise measurement and inspection. A strong, self-directed candidate thrives in a small, fast-paced shop environment.