EDM & CNC Operator - 1st Shift

Cooper-Standard Automotive, Inc.; Spring Lake (NC); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Cooper-Standard Automotive, Inc. is looking for an EDM & CNC Operator in Spring Lake, North Carolina. The operator will be responsible for operating and programming machines to manufacture molds and tools, ensuring adherence to specifications and quality standards.

We seek a candidate with a high school diploma or GED and preferably some experience in a manufacturing setting. The role demands effective communication, problem-solving skills, and proficiency with both manual and automated machining tools.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience in manufacturing preferred.
• Vocational training and/or Journeymen Card may be required.

Responsibilities

• Operate and program EDM & CNC machines for manufacturing parts.
• Read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Perform machine maintenance and troubleshoot issues as needed.

Skills

Effective communication

Problem-solving skills

Basic computer skills

Ability to establish priorities

Education

High school diploma or GED

Vocational training and/or Journeymen Card

Tools

CAD/CAM software (BobCAD/CAM, OneCNC, Mastercam, AutoCAD)

Measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, etc.)

Job description

Job Description

The EDM & CNC Operator is responsible for operating and programming a variety of machines to manufacture, rework, and repair molds and tools used in the plastic extrusion processes. They must be able to operate, program, and set‑up machines to manufacture complete parts of various materials from start to finish in accordance with prints and instructions provided.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret drawings/prints, follow routers, use math for calculations, and use handheld measuring tools.
• Study specifications such as blueprints, sketches, models, templates, and prototype parts or descriptions, and visualize product shape and operation of mold, tool, or die and mechanical structure to determine materials required and machines to be used to fabricate parts.
• Compute dimensions, plan layout, and determine assembly method and sequence of operations.
• Measure, mark and scribe metal stock for machining.
• Set up and operate manual lathes, manual mills, grinders, and other miscellaneous manual machines as needed to fabricate the part.
• Use measuring instruments such as calipers, comparators, dial indicators, feeler gages, pin gages, block gages, thread go/no‑go gages, micrometers, blade micrometers, pitch micrometers, reamers, surface testers, ruler, and tape measure.
• Use CAD/CAM software (BobCAD/CAMv24, OneCNC, Mastercam, KeyCreator, AutoCAD) to create 2D or 3D drawings or write programs.
• Write new programs manually and/or using CAM software (BobCAD/CAM, OneCNC, Mastercam).
• Operate EDM machines, CNC lathes, CNC mills; set up machine parts using G&M code programming; download/upload programs to/from CNC machines and EDM; set up fixtures and tooling.
• Perform simple and advanced commands on the machine control panel, modify program speeds and feeds, and adjust coolant flow.
• Set up and operate machine tools such as EDM, CNC lathes, CNC mills, manual milling machine, radial drill press, and grinder; verify conformance to specification with tolerances as close as0.0005inch.
• Smooth flat and contoured surfaces; assemble parts together using hand tools.
• Verify dimensions, alignments, and clearances with measuring instruments.
• Dowel and bolt parts together; fit and assemble cam‑operated mechanisms for lateral movement of part of a die.
• Dismantle existing molds, tools and die, and repair or replace parts.
• Examine standard or previously used dies, tools, and jigs and recommend design modifications regarding construction and function of part.
• Develop specifications from general descriptions for specialty tools and draw or sketch the design of the product.
• Operate multiple machines at the same time; diagnose and respond to machine alarms; perform daily machine maintenance.
• Make suggestions for process changes that may improve costs or lead times for machining operations.
• Help other machinists and operators troubleshoot and solve problems.
• Seek additional value‑added activities within the job when an individual’s time is not fully utilized.
• Communicate regularly with supervisors and support staff.
• Participate in Kaizen, 5S and corrective action events as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience within a manufacturing setting preferred.
• Vocational training and/or Journeymen Card.

Skills & Abilities

• Effective communication with coworkers and management.
• Ability to establish priorities, work independently and meet work standards without direct supervision.
• Proficiency with quality tools and systems provided.
• Basic computer skills, including data entry and navigation of internal programs.
• Problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills; ability to offer resolutions/suggestions to engineers and support staff.

Physical and Visual Requirements

• Stand, sit, walk, bend, and crouch frequently while performing job duties.
• Repetitive motion and part manipulation required depending on the job being performed.
• Lift no more than 50lbs.
• Visual work occasionally close to the eyes; read paperwork, take accurate measurements, view computer screens, and perform visual inspection of product to identify defects including color, scratches, and die lines.

Travel Requirements

Minimal.

EEO Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce. Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran VEVRAA Federal Contractor.