CNC Machinist

CNC Machinist

Date: Jul 14, 2026

Location: Hickory, NC, US, 28601

Company: Corning

Requisition Number: 76246

The company built on breakthroughs. Join us. Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible. How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward. At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more. Come break through with us. Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry. This segment is classified into two main product groupings carrier network and enterprise network.

Role Purpose

Set up, operate, and inspect a variety of machine shop equipment, with primary responsibility for a CNC mill and other precision machining equipment, including manual mills, lathes, drill presses, and grinders as needed. Interpret 2D prints, written specifications, and work instructions to manufacture complex parts to close tolerances. Use precision measuring instruments and hand tools to verify quality and ensure compliance with dimensional requirements. Perform tool changes, offsets, basic program edits, and machine adjustments to support efficient production. Fabricate, modify, and assemble machined components used in stage I/II/III development equipment and production machinery, including parts with intricate, moving, and interchangeable features. Work independently on standard machining assignments while supporting troubleshooting, process improvement, and safe shop practices

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and manual machine tools, including mills, lathes, drill presses, and grinders.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work instructions.
• Machine and inspect precision parts using measuring tools to meet specifications and tolerances.
• Select and adjust tooling, fixtures, machine offsets, and basic CNC programs.
• Monitor machining operations and troubleshoot machining or dimensional issues.
• Deburr, clean, and prepare machined components for inspection or assembly.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and maintain production and inspection records.
• Follow shop safety procedures, quality standards, and company policies.
• Support prototype fabrication, custom machining, repairs, and equipment assembly.
• Collaborate with engineers and cross-functional teams to improve machining processes and resolve technical issues.

Experiences/Education - Required

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 24+ years of CNC machining experience, with strong experience operating and setting up CNC milling machines
• Hands-on experience with 3-axis CNC mills, with demonstrated ability to transition into or operate 4th-axis machining
• CAM software experience Includes capable of understanding and generating code in CAM or manually
• Basic part inspection post machining form, tolerance, surface finish, overall quality

Experiences/Education - Desired

• 2-year technical degree preferred
• SolidWorks CAM experience
• Experience with GD&T
• ASME Y14.5-2009

The range for this position is $75,055.00 - $103,201.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.

A job that shapes a life. Corning offers you the total package. Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one. Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win. As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service. Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family. Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status. Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io.