Mill Operator

Cogentanalytics; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Cogentanalytics is seeking a skilled 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, ensuring tight tolerances and serving as a technical resource for less experienced machinists.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of hands-on machining in a job-shop or precision environment, with strong blueprint reading, GD&T, and measurement skills.

Qualifications

• 5+ years hands-on machining experience in a job-shop or precision environment.
• Proficiency with CNC mills, lathes and manual machines.
• Independently set up machines from scratch.
• Strong blueprint reading with GD&T.
• Experience with precision measurement and inspection.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, and water jet equipment independently.
• Plan job sequencing and select tooling/fixturing for quality production.
• Complete setups from scratch without pre-built setups.
• Write or edit basic CNC programs and make offsets.
• Read and interpret technical drawings with GD&T.
• Perform in-process and final inspections with precision instruments.
• Identify quality issues and communicate concerns to Shop Foreman.
• Mentor less experienced machinists on setup and techniques.
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized work area.
• Follow safety procedures and PPE requirements.

Skills

Mill programming

CNC milling

CNC turning

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Inspection & metrology

Manual machining

Quality control

Driver's license

Mentoring

Tools

Mastercam

Fusion 360

Job description

The Machinist I is an experienced, self-sufficient craftsperson capable of independently setting up and running CNC and manual equipment with minimal supervision. This role takes ownership of complex jobs from print to finished part, holds tight tolerances, and serves as a technical resource for less experienced machinists on the floor. The ideal candidate is a skilled, self-directed tradesperson who works well in a small, fast-paced precision manufacturing team. This position reports to the Shop Foreman.

Key Responsibilities

Machining & Setup

• 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.
• Programming expertise: Mill programming

Blueprint & Specification

• 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.

Quality & Coordination

• Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measuring instruments, including 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.

Shop Operations & Safety

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Follow established safety procedures and proper PPE requirements.

Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Friday, 7:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Occasional overtime required

Qualifications

Required

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

Preferred

• CAM software experience, such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar.
• Experience with heat treating tool steel.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position is based on the production floor of a machine shop. The employee is regularly exposed to moderate-to-loud noise, machine oil, coolant, metal chips, and dust. Appropriate PPE is provided and required.

The role requires standing for extended periods, bending, reaching, manual dexterity, and lifting or moving materials up to 50 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.