CNC Lathe Programmer | Ludington, MI

Salary Range: $59,000 - $93,000 depending on experience

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

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. 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.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Ludington region seeking CNC Lathe Programmers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop CNC programs for lathes using CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Esprit).
• Analyze engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine machining processes.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, inserts, and workholding devices.
• Optimize tool paths, feed rates, and spindle speeds for efficiency and quality.
• Perform post-processing of CAM programs to generate machine-readable G-code.
• Collaborate with machinists and engineers to troubleshoot and refine programs.
• Conduct first-article inspections and make program adjustments as needed.
• Document setup sheets, tooling lists, and operational procedures.

Recommended Qualifications

• Proficient in G-code programming for 2-axis CNC lathes.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.
• Experience with CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Esprit, GibbsCAM) for generating toolpaths.
• Strong understanding of tooling, fixturing, and workholding principles for lathe operations.
• Ability to select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, and feeds for various materials.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in CNC lathe programming in a manufacturing environment.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software beyond basic part modeling (e.g., SolidWorks CAM, Mastercam).
• Ability to perform minor machine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with different control systems (e.g., Fanuc, Haas, Mazak).
• Proficiency in using metrology tools for in-process inspection (e.g., CMM, optical comparator).
• Prior experience mentoring junior programmers or machinists.

Job Titles That Should Apply

CNC Programmer, Lathe Programmer, CNC Machinist Programmer, Manufacturing Programmer, CNC Lathe Programmer Analyst, CNC Programmer/Machinist, CAD/CAM Programmer, CNC Programmer Specialist, CNC Programmer Technician

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

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.