CNC Operator

Trillium Staffing; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 44,000 - 74,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential

Quarterly bonus (PIP)

Job summary

Trillium Staffing seeks a CNC Swiss Lathe Programmer/Operator to program, set up, and run Swiss CNC lathes, EDM, 5-axis, and overmold equipment in Winston-Salem, NC. The role emphasizes direct hands-on CNC programming experience with strong setup and machine-operating skills.

The position offers a full-time schedule, 4x10-hour shifts, and competitive pay with a late-shift differential and a quarterly performance incentive plan. On-site interview and safety standards are part of the process.

Qualifications

• Associate degree (AAS) or technical certification in Machining Technology, or equivalent hands‑on industry experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of hands‑on CNC programming, setup, and operation with Swiss-style lathes and 5-axis platforms.
• Advanced CNC programming capabilities (CAM software and direct G-code/M-code programming).
• Proficiency with CAM software, SPC tools, and digital data collection platforms.
• Experience with Microsoft Office tools and standard ERP software suites.
• Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skill set with high attention to detail.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs repetitively and up to 75 lbs occasionally.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and optimize Swiss CNC lathes, EDM, 5-axis, and overmold equipment.
• Operate multi‑axis CNC machines to produce high-precision components.
• Perform in-process inspections and ensure spec conformance with micrometers, calipers, and optical instruments.
• Maintain production records, SPC charts, and job details using ERP and Office tools.
• Train team members on equipment operation and safety guidelines.

Skills

CNC programming

Setup and machine operation

G-code/m-code programming

Precision inspection with micrometers

Education

AAS in Machining Technology or technical certification

Tools

CAM software

ERP software

Job description

Trillium Professional is now seeking a CNC Swiss Lathe Programmer / Operator for direct-hire in Winston-Salem, NC!

As a CNC Swiss Lathe Programmer / Setup / Operator, you will program, set up, operate, and optimize Swiss CNC lathes, EDM, 5-axis, and overmold equipment to manufacture high-precision components and tooling. Working with materials such as brass, aluminum, steel, carbide, and stainless steel, this position requires strong technical expertise and strict attention to detail to ensure high-efficiency, high-quality production while adhering to safety and quality standards. Direct hands‑on CNC programming experience is the most critical requirement for this position, complemented by strong setup and machine operating skills.

This full‑time position offers a competitive pay range of $21.33 to $35.56 per hour, an additional 10% shift differential for the late shift, and an 8% quarterly Performance Incentive Plan (PIP) bonus. The schedule runs Monday through Thursday on a 4x10-hour shift structure. Shift start times are flexible (earliest start is 1:00 PM), provided the shift overlaps with both 1st and 2nd shifts. Candidates will participate in a 1-hour on‑site interview as part of the selection process.

Primary Responsibilities

• Programming and Setup
  • Create, optimize, and modify Swiss CNC programs using G-code and M-code to meet exact part specifications and tolerances.
  • Program utilizing CAM software or directly through machine interfaces.
  • Select, layout, and install tooling; adjust tool offsets for peak machining performance.
  • Stay current on industry techniques and evaluate new tooling to optimize cycle times.
  • Complete full setups on Swiss, EDM, 5-axis, and overmold machinery for scheduled production runs.
• Operation and Troubleshooting
  • Operate multi‑axis Swiss CNC lathes, EDM, 5‑axis, and overmold equipment to produce tight‑tolerance components.
  • Troubleshoot machine setups and programs to extend tool life, optimize cycle times, and maximize part quality.
  • Perform routine in‑process inspections using micrometers, calipers, and optical instruments to confirm specification conformance.
• Documentation and Reporting
  • Maintain accurate production records, SPC charts, and job details using Microsoft Office tools and ERP software.
  • Collaborate effectively with internal production, engineering, and logistics teams.
  • Coordinate material movement to secondary operations, including degreasing, heat treatment, QA, and shipping.
• Safety and Maintenance
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work environment following all facility safety protocols.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance checks to maximize machine uptime and reliability.
  • Proactively identify and report site safety hazards.
• Additional Duties
  • Help train team members on equipment operation and safety guidelines.
  • Assist with EDM and short‑run production needs as schedule demands require.
  • Support broader shop objectives and special project needs as assigned.

Qualifications

• Required
  • Associate degree (AAS) or technical certification in Machining Technology, or equivalent hands‑on industry experience.
  • Minimum of 2 years of hands‑on experience in CNC programming, setup, and operation, with a strong focus on Swiss‑style lathes and 5‑axis platforms.
  • Advanced CNC programming capabilities (CAM software and direct G-code/M-code manual programming).
  • Proficiency using CAM software, SPC tools, and digital data collection platforms.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office tools and standard ERP software suites.
  • Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skill set with high attention to detail.
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. repetitively and occasionally up to 75 lbs. throughout a shift.

Trillium has been recruiting and placing professionals for over 30 years. From Fortune 100 companies to small businesses, our philosophy remains the same: to achieve excellence by providing quality employees and an uncompromising level of service. We believe in honesty, integrity, and a simple philosophy of providing value to our customers and our employees. We strive to be unsurpassed in the recruitment and placement of quality and skilled professionals.

Trillium is an Equal Opportunity Employer.