Precision Manufacturing Cell Operator (CNC/Foundry)

Colson Group Holdings LLC; Saint Joseph (MI); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Colson Group Holdings LLC is seeking a skilled machine operator to run and monitor multiple CNC machines in a foundry environment. You will setup tooling, perform changeovers, read blueprints, and inspect parts for quality, while moving materials with a forklift and logging activity in the ERP system.

You will maintain a 5S workplace, support continuous improvements, and communicate issues to your group leader as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience as a machine operator preferred (1+ year).
• Strong troubleshooting, reading and math abilities.
• Ability to read blueprints and use precision inspection tools.
• Experience with heavy material handling and forklifts is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Run multiple machines concurrently; start, monitor, and adjust for throughput and quality.
• Set up and sharpen tooling; perform CNC setup and changeovers.
• Load parts by hand or via hopper dumper to maintain flow.
• Read blueprints and verify dimensions with precision tools; perform in-process inspections.
• Operate lift trucks to move materials; document activity in ERP.
• Maintain a safe, clean 5S workspace and support improvements.
• Communicate issues to group leader and assist teammates as needed.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Heavy material handling

Investment casting

CNC machine setup

Production changeovers

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

ERP software

Precision inspection tools

Shop tools

Forklift / lift trucks

Job description

A day in the life

You open your work cell, review priorities in the ERP system, and ready multiple machines for the shift. Tooling is sharpened and set, hoppers are filled or parts are shoveled in, and the first quality checks confirm components match the print. Through the day, you rotate between machines, make fine adjustments, log labor and scrap, move materials by lift truck, and keep the area 5S clean—reporting progress and any issues to your group leader.

What you'll do

• Run multiple machines concurrently; start, monitor, and adjust as needed for throughput and quality.
• Set up and sharpen tooling; complete CNC setup and changeovers for production runs.
• Load parts by hand or via hopper dumper to maintain steady flow.
• Read blueprints and verify dimensions using precision measurement tools; perform in-process inspections.
• Operate lift trucks to move raw materials, WIP, finished goods, and scrap.
• Document activity in ERP and on required forms (labor reports, scrap reports, and related paperwork).
• Maintain a safe, orderly 5S work cell and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Communicate machine, quality, and inventory concerns to the group leader; assist teammates as needed.
• Support foundry operations (investment casting) as applicable.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Tools and tech you'll work with

• ERP software for work orders, transactions, and reporting.
• Precision inspection instruments and standard measuring tools.
• Basic hand tools (air drivers, wrenches) and shop equipment.
• Lift trucks and other material handling equipment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Prior machine operator experience; 1+ year preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting, reading, and math abilities; clear communication skills.
• Comfort running more than one machine while maintaining quality.
• Basic computer proficiency (data entry and general navigation).
• Ability to read blueprints, use precision inspection tools, and accurately complete reports.
• Experience with heavy material handling and forklifts.
• Exposure to investment casting/foundry operations and CNC setups/changeovers is a plus.

Physical requirements

• Lift up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent bending and stooping.
• Extended standing/walking (8+ hours) and long-distance walking throughout the day.
• Climb step stools and small ladders as needed.

Safety notice

• This position is a safety-sensitive position. The position requires operating or working around heavy equipment, which if performed while under the influence of drugs (including marijuana) or alcohol could result in errors in judgment, inattentiveness or diminished coordination, dexterity or composure that could in turn result in mistakes that would endanger the health and safety of you and others.

Core proficiencies

• Troubleshooting Skills
• Heavy Material Handling
• Investment Casting (Foundry Operations)
• CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
• Machine Setups for Production Runs