Mill Operator

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

Benefits offered by this job

Company-paid health insurance

7 paid holidays

Paid vacation

Early Friday release

Job summary

Cogent Analytics is seeking a Machinist I to operate and set up CNC mills and lathes on the production floor in Hickory, NC. The role requires handling complex jobs from print to finished part, with emphasis on tight tolerances and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of hands-on machining experience, strong blueprint reading skills (GD&T), and proficiency with both CNC and manual machines.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on machining in a job-shop or precision environment.
• Proficiency with CNC mills, 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.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and water jet independently.
• Plan sequencing and select tooling/fixturing for quality production.
• Complete setups from scratch without pre-built setups; mill programming.
• Read and interpret complex drawings with GD&T; write or edit basic CNC programs.
• Mentor and assist less experienced machinists; coordinate with Shop Foreman.

Skills

Machining experience

Mill programming

CNC & manual machines

Blueprint reading GD&T

Precision measurement

Independent setup

Driver's license

Tools

Mastercam

Fusion 360

Job description

• Strong blueprint reading skills, including GD&T

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.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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