Mill Operator

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health/dental/vision insurance options

Paid holidays

Paid vacation

Job summary

Cogent Analytics is seeking a skilled Machinist I to independently set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, and water jet equipment in a small, fast-paced precision shop. You will read complex drawings with GD&T and write or adjust basic CNC programs while mentoring less experienced machinists and maintaining safety and quality.

The position offers a stable schedule: 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
• Programming experience: Mill programming
• Proficient with CNC mills, CNC lathes, and manual machines
• Ability to independently set up machines from scratch
• Strong blueprint reading with GD&T familiarity
• Experience with precision measurement and inspection methods

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, and water jet equipment independently
• Plan job sequencing and select tooling/fixturing for efficient production
• Complete setups from scratch without pre-built setups
• Read complex drawings and write or edit CNC programs and offsets
• Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, CMMs; communicate quality issues
• Mentor less experienced machinists on setup and machining techniques
• Maintain clean, safe work area and follow PPE requirements
• Assist the Shop Foreman with scheduling input and job status updates

Skills

Mill programming

CNC milling

CNC turning

Blueprint reading

GD&T

Mentoring

Independent setup

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.

$22 - $32 an hour

Compensation & Benefits

• $22.00–$32.00 per hour, based on experience.
• 7 paid holidays and paid vacation.
• Company-paid health/dental/vision insurance options available. - 100 percent paid by business!
• Stable schedule with consistent Friday early release at 1:00 p.m.

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.