CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer

Location: Hickory, NC Area

Pay: $36–$40/hr, depending on experience

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Schedule: Full-Time

Overtime: Consistent OT opportunities available

We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer for a growing precision manufacturing operation in the Hickory, NC area. This is a hands-on role for someone who understands the full CNC machining process — programming, setup, tooling, troubleshooting, and process improvement.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced CNC professional looking for strong hourly pay, consistent overtime, and the opportunity to work on complex, tight-tolerance machined components.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for mills and/or lathes

• Set up and run CNC equipment as needed

• Determine tooling, speeds, feeds, workholding, and machining processes

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T

• Troubleshoot CNC programs, setups, tooling, and machining issues

• Perform test runs and make necessary program adjustments

• Improve cycle times, quality, tooling life, and overall machining efficiency

• Support new-part introduction and existing manufacturing processes

• Work closely with machinists, engineering, and quality teams

Qualifications

• Strong CNC programming and machining experience

• Experience with CNC mills, lathes, or both

• Ability to independently program, set up, and troubleshoot CNC equipment

• Strong blueprint reading and tolerance knowledge

• Experience with CAM programming preferred

• Knowledge of tooling, feeds, speeds, and workholding

• Precision or tight-tolerance machining experience preferred

• Manufacturing/process engineering experience is a plus

• Experienced CNC Machinists and Programmers are encouraged to apply even without an engineering title

Compensation & Benefits

• $36–$40/hr depending on experience

• Consistent overtime with strong earning potential

• Direct-hire opportunity

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits

• PTO and paid holidays

• Stable, established manufacturing environment

• Opportunity to work on complex precision-machined components

Candidates with backgrounds as a CNC Programmer, CNC Machinist/Programmer, Manufacturing Engineer, CNC Manufacturing Engineer, CNC Setup Machinist, Process Engineer, or Senior CNC Machinist are encouraged to apply.

You should be proficient in:

• CNC Tooling
• CNC Programming
• CNC Machine Installation
• G-Code
• Precision Measurement & Hand Metrology
• Spindle Maintenance & Repair

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC)
• CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
• CNC Lathe (5+ axis)