CNC Programmer/Machinist

CNC Programmer / Machinist (Mazak Turning & Mill-Turn)

Location: Houston, TX

Type: Direct Hire - Full-Time 1st Shift

Compensation: $35-$43/hr.

Company Overview: Our Houston-based manufacturing client produces precision machined components used in waterworks infrastructure and industrial piping systems. The company operates a modern machining environment focused on CNC turning and mill-turn machining of metal components and fittings used in municipal and industrial applications. The team is seeking a skilled CNC Programmer / Machinist with experience programming and operating Mazak turning and mill-turn equipment. This role supports both production and new part development by creating machining programs, setting up machines, and running parts to specification.

Position Summary

The CNC Programmer / Machinist is responsible for developing CNC machining programs, setting up equipment, and operating Mazak CNC machines to produce precision metal components. The position requires hands-on experience programming Mazatrol conversational programs and G-code, setting tooling and offsets, and proving out programs on Mazak turning and mill-turn machines. This role is ideal for a machinist who is comfortable writing programs directly at the machine control, performing setups, and supporting production machining in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Typical Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop CNC machining programs from scratch using Mazatrol conversational programming and G-code
• Write programs for Mazak turning and mill-turn machines, including drilling, tapping, boring, turning, and milling cycles
• Modify and optimize existing CNC programs to improve cycle times, machining efficiency, and part quality
• Troubleshoot machining and program issues and adjust feeds, speeds, offsets, and toolpaths as needed
• Support new part introduction by developing machining strategies, tooling selections, and machining processes
• Perform complete setups on Mazak Quick Turn lathes and mill-turn machines
• Install and configure tooling, inserts, and holders
• Set tool offsets and work offsets
• Configure fixtures, chucks, and workholding for production runs
• Perform first-article setups and verify part conformance to drawings and specifications
• Operate CNC turning and mill-turn equipment as required to support production and program prove-outs
• Monitor machine operations to ensure safe and efficient production
• Adjust programs or offsets during machining as needed
• Maintain machine cleanliness and follow preventative maintenance practices
• Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T requirements
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision measuring tools
• Ensure machined parts meet dimensional tolerances and quality standards
• Document production and inspection results
• Work with equipment including Mazak Quick Turn CNC lathes and Mazak mill-turn machines with live tooling and C-axis capability
• Utilize control systems including Mazatrol conversational programming and G-code programming
• Perform machining processes including CNC turning, drilling, boring, tapping cycles, cross drilling, and live tooling milling operations

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of CNC machining experience in a production or job-shop environment
• Experience programming Mazak machines using Mazatrol conversational programming
• Ability to write and edit G-code programs
• Strong experience setting up CNC lathes and mill-turn machines
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T
• Experience selecting cutting tools, inserts, and machining parameters
• Proficiency with precision measurement instruments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Mazak Quick Turn or similar CNC turning centers
• Experience with live-tooling lathe or mill-turn machining
• Formal training in CNC machining or manufacturing technology
• Experience machining steel or industrial metal components

Work Environment

• Manufacturing shop floor environment
• Standing for extended periods
• Ability to lift materials and components as needed