CNC Lathe Programmer | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $58,000 - $92,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous professional with a passion for excelling as a cnc lathe programmer? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We collaborate with companies in the Portage area seeking experienced CNC Lathe Programmers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan's manufacturing regions. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

This posting covers CNC Lathe Programmer opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Portage in Kalamazoo County, within about 30 minutes of the city, including Three Rivers, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg, and Constantine.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across the Portage area seeking CNC Lathe Programmers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Usual Responsibilities

• Write and edit CNC lathe programs from drawings and specifications.
• Set up lathes with tooling, fixtures, and offsets for each job.
• Prove out new programs and adjust speeds and feeds as needed.
• Troubleshoot program errors and machining problems during runs.
• Inspect first articles and in-process parts to confirm dimensions.
• Maintain program files and revision records for repeat jobs.
• Work with machinists and engineers to improve cycle times and yield.
• Follow safety rules and keep machines and work area clean.

Recommended Qualifications

• Knowledge of tooling selection, speeds, and feeds.
• High school diploma or equivalent plus hands-on machining experience.
• Experience programming CNC lathes in a machine shop.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T callouts.
• Familiarity with G-code and CAM software for turning.
• Skill with precision measuring tools and tolerance checks.

Bonus Qualifications

• Familiarity with Fanuc or Okuma controls.
• Formal machining certificate or apprenticeship.
• Experience with lean or continuous improvement projects.
• Ability to program mills as well as lathes.
• Experience with live tooling and multi-axis lathes.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool and Die Machinist, Production Machinist, CAM Programmer, Machine Shop Supervisor, CNC Programmer, CNC Machinist, Lathe Operator, CNC Lathe Setup Operator, Machining Technician, Manufacturing Technician

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search - market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.