CNC Programmer / Machinist - Lathe Focus
Location: Wilmington, NC
Job Type: Full-Time

About Us

Wilmington Machinery is a well-established manufacturer specializing in large-scale, low-pressure structural foam injection molding machinery. As part of our continued growth, we are strengthening our in-house machine shop to support internal manufacturing needs and outside machining opportunities.

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled CNC Programmer / Machinist with strong hands-on experience programming, setting up, and operating CNC lathes. CNC mill experience is a plus, but the primary need is lathe programming and operation. This position reports to the Machine Shop Manager and will serve as a key support person in the shop, assisting with machining priorities, inspection, scheduling support, and coverage when the Machine Shop Manager is out.

Key Responsibilities

·       CNC Lathe Programming & Setup: Create, edit, optimize, set up, and run CNC lathe programs for production and job shop work.

·       Machining Operations: Operate CNC lathes and assist with CNC mill work when needed.

·       Blueprint Reading & GD&T: Interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, notes, and specifications to produce accurate parts.

·       Tooling & Process Selection: Select proper tooling, workholding, inserts, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies.

·       Quality & Inspection: Inspect machined parts using standard measuring tools and verify compliance with requirements.

·       Shop Throughput Support: Prepare setups, prove out programs, reduce downtime, communicate issues early, and help keep jobs moving.

·       Scheduling Support: Assist the Machine Shop Manager with job priorities, due dates, material readiness, and workflow updates.

·       Backup Support: Provide shop coverage and help maintain continuity when the Machine Shop Manager is unavailable.

·       Equipment Care: Perform routine checks, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting on assigned machines and related equipment.

·       Continuous Improvement: Look for practical ways to improve cycle times, setup efficiency, quality, and overall shop performance.

Qualifications & Experience

·       Minimum 5+ years of CNC machining experience in a production or job shop environment preferred.

·       Strong CNC lathe programming, setup, and operating experience required.

·       Experience with CNC mills preferred, but not required as the primary focus of the role.

·       Proficiency with CAM programming software; Fusion or GibbsCAM experience preferred.

·       Strong knowledge of GD&T, blueprint reading, and inspection methods.

·       Strong knowledge of tooling, tool selection, workholding, feeds, speeds, and setup best practices.

·       Ability to work independently while also supporting the overall shop team.

·       Good communication skills and willingness to coordinate with engineering, purchasing, and production as needed.

·       Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Why Join Us?

·       Opportunity to join a growing in-house machine shop with modern equipment and expanding capabilities.

·       Hands-on role where your programming and machining skills directly impact throughput, quality, and revenue.

·       Stable, long-term career opportunity with a well-established manufacturing company.

·       Competitive pay and full benefits, including health, dental, 401(k), PTO, and related benefits.

If you are an experienced CNC Programmer / Machinist looking for a hands-on role in a growing machine shop, we would like to hear from you.