Lead CNC Mill Operator & Programmer

Cogent Analytics; Hickory (AL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Cogent Analytics in Hickory, AL is seeking a skilled Machinist I to independently set up and run CNC mills, CNC lathes, and water jet equipment. You will own complex jobs from print to finished part, maintain tight tolerances, and mentor junior machinists on the shop floor.

The role reports to the Shop Foreman, follows a schedule of Monday–Thursday 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and Friday 7:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., with occasional overtime.

Qualifications

• 5+ years hands-on machining in a job-shop or precision manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with CNC mills, lathes, and manual machines.
• Strong blueprint reading with GD&T.
• Ability to set up machines from scratch.
• Experience with precision measurement and inspection.
• Able to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Team-oriented and willing to mentor others.
• Valid driver's license required.

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.
• Mill programming.
• Read and interpret complex drawings, GD&T callouts, and tight tolerances.
• Write or edit basic CNC programs and make offsets to maintain tolerances.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using micrometers, calipers, CMMs, and other inspection equipment.
• 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

Mill programming

GD&T reading

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Independent setup

Time management

Team player

Driver's license

Tools

Mastercam

Fusion 360

Job description

Cogent Analytics in Hickory, AL is seeking a skilled Machinist I to independently set up and run CNC mills, CNC lathes, and water jet equipment. You will own complex jobs from print to finished part, maintain tight tolerances, and mentor junior machinists on the shop floor.

The role reports to the Shop Foreman, follows a schedule of Monday–Thursday 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and Friday 7:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., with occasional overtime.