Senior CNC Machinist / Programmer

Column Technical Services; Alsip (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Column Technical Services in Alsip, IL is seeking a Senior CNC Machinist/Programmer to join our precision manufacturing team. You will independently program, setup, and run complex CNC mills and lathes, interpret drawings, and ensure first-pass quality on high-precision components.

This on-site, first-shift role offers stability in a well-established shop serving power generation and industrial OEM markets, with opportunities to mentor junior machinists and optimize processes. OT available.

Qualifications

• 7-10+ years of CNC machining experience in precision manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Proven ability to independently program, setup, and machine from engineering drawings.
• Strong knowledge of CNC programming, machining processes, G-code, and M-code.
• Advanced understanding of GD&T, tolerancing, and precision measurement techniques.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC mills and lathes independently.
• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs using G-code and M-code.
• Interpret drawings, GD&T requirements, and machining specs.
• Perform advanced setups, tooling selection, fixture development, and work holding adjustments.
• Manufacture components to exact customer and engineering specs.
• Mentor and support less experienced machinists.

Skills

G-code programming

Multi-axis machining

Setup and troubleshooting

GD&T interpretation

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Mastercam

Fanuc controls

Job description

Column Technical is looking for a skilled Senior CNC Machinist/Programmer with strong G-code programming, setup, and troubleshooting skills to produce complex, high-precision components in a modern manufacturing environment. Join a well-established precision manufacturer in Alsip, IL, serving critical industries with challenging and rewarding work. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on CNC expert seeking long-term stability, growth, and the opportunity to make an immediate impact.

Onsite in Alsip, IL | 1st Shift Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM | Overtime Available - OT approximately 45 hours per week)

Our company specializes in manufacturing precision-machined components for the Power Generation, Oil & Gas, OEM, and Industrial Repair industries. Our team combines advanced machining technology with extensive manufacturing expertise to produce and restore critical components that support essential industrial operations.

ISO 9001:2015 Certified | ISO 14001:2015 Certified

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior CNC Machinist / Programmer to join our manufacturing team in Alsip, Illinois. This hands-on role is ideal for a highly skilled professional with extensive experience in CNC programming, machine setup, troubleshooting, and precision machining.

The successful candidate will be capable of independently managing projects from blueprint interpretation through programming, setup, machining, inspection, and final production. We are looking for a motivated expert who can make an immediate impact, take ownership of complex projects, and serve as a technical resource for the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC mills and lathes independently.
• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs utilizing G-code and M-code.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T requirements, and machining specifications.
• Perform advanced machine setups, tooling selection, fixture development, and work holding adjustments.
• Manufacture precision components to exact customer and engineering specifications.
• Select appropriate machining methods, feeds, speeds, and tooling to maximize efficiency and quality.
• Diagnose and resolve machining, programming, and dimensional issues with minimal supervision.
• Conduct first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to address manufacturing challenges.
• Support manual machining operations, including mills, lathes, and grinding equipment, as needed.
• Identify opportunities to improve cycle times, reduce setup times, and minimize scrap.Maintain accurate production and inspection documentation.
• Mentor and support less experienced machinists.
• Adhere to all safety, quality, and maintenance standards.

Required Qualifications

• 7-10+ years of CNC machining experience in precision manufacturing or industrial machining environments.
• Extensive experience with CNC mills and/or lathes, including advanced setups.
• Proven ability to independently program, set up, and machine components from engineering drawings.
• Strong knowledge of CNC programming, machining processes, G-code, and M-code.
• Advanced understanding of GD&T, tolerancing, and precision measurement techniques.
• Experience selecting tooling, designing fixtures, and optimizing machining processes.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency using calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, and related measuring tools.
• Strong understanding of metals, cutting applications, machining speeds, and feeds.
• Ability to perform machining calculations and shop math accurately.
• Commitment to quality, safety, accountability, and productivity.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Journeyman-level or expert CNC machining background.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam or comparable platforms.
• Multi-axis machining experience, including 4-axis and 5-axis equipment.
• Familiarity with Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, or similar CNC controls.
• Experience producing custom, complex, and high-precision components.
• Manual machining experience with mills, lathes, and grinders.
• Background in industrial equipment, rotating equipment, pumps, or OEM manufacturing.
• Proven success improving machining efficiency and production processes.
• Experience training, mentoring, or leading other machinists.