CNC Lathe & Mill Programmer/Operator (Mastercam)
Are you a hands-on machinist who loves dialing in setups, keeping machines running, and solving problems on the fly? Carlson Hydraulics is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe & Mill Programmer/Operator with Mastercam experience to support our fast-paced, team-oriented machine shop. If minimizing downtime, improving turnovers, and keeping the green lights on motivates you—we’d like to talk.
Why This Role Matters
At Carlson Hydraulics, teamwork and efficiency drive everything we do. Our shop is built around quick-change setups, shared responsibility, and smart machine utilization—often with two operators managing three machines. Your programming knowledge, setup skills, and machinist mindset play a key role in keeping production moving and quality high.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Program, set up, and operate CNC lathes and mills using Mastercam
- Edit and optimize programs at the machine to improve cycle times and reduce setups
- Perform frequent machine changeovers—short runs are the norm
- Set up and operate CNC lathes with live tooling and Y-axis capability
- Machine parts from a wide range of materials using blueprint specifications
- Perform accurate inspections using:
- Micrometers, calipers, depth mics
- Indicators, pin gauges, and thread gauges
- Handle setup tasks including:
- Tooling changes and soft jaw swaps
- Tool length and wear offsets
- Fixture setup and verification
- Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and quality issues independently
- Monitor tool wear and proactively prevent part inconsistencies
- Operate 1–2 machines independently while coordinating with teammates to maximize uptime
- Support daily shop organization:
- Review work packets
- Prep materials and setups for upcoming jobs
- Maintain clean and efficient work areas
- Assist in training and mentoring newer operators
- Jump in where needed to support overall shop productivity
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience programming and operating CNC lathes and mills
- Strong proficiency with Mastercam
- Experience with live tooling and Y-axis machining
- Excellent blueprint reading and GD&T understanding
- Strong inspection and measuring skills
- Organized, detail-oriented, and process-driven
- Comfortable making program edits and working with computers
- Team-focused with a strong sense of ownership
- Problem solver who takes pride in keeping machines running
- Flexible and willing to learn new machines and processes
Schedule
- Currently on mandatory 10-hour shifts
- Monday–Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Overtime is built into the schedule
- Additional hours may be available based on workload
Benefits of Joining Carlson Hydraulics
- Competitive pay
- 401(k) with company match
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and retirement plans
- Employee discounts and additional perks
- Overtime and bonus opportunities
Why Carlson Hydraulics?
We value skilled machinists who take pride in their work, collaborate with their teammates, and take initiative to improve processes. If you’re a motivated CNC Programmer/Operator who thrives in a shop that values efficiency, quality, and teamwork, Carlson Hydraulics is the place for you.
Apply today and help us keep the green lights on.
Company Description
Midway Manufacturing Inc., a family-owned and locally operated company established in 1975 in Kansas, specializes in manufacturing high-quality hydraulic cylinders and related accessories right here in the USA. With a commitment to custom-built products, competitive pricing, and a solid 36-month warranty on our cylinders, we've built a reputation for reliability and craftsmanship in the industrial sector (visit us at midwaymfg.com for more details). In December 2018, Midway acquired Carlson Hydraulics and added the welded hydraulic Cylinder to its cylinder production.
Design Something New Every Day. Build a Career That Moves.
At Carlson Hydraulics, we don’t do repetitive work—we design custom hydraulic cylinders tailored to real-world applications. Every day is a new challenge, a new customer, and a new opportunity to engineer something that matters.
We’re looking for a Mechanical Engineer or Drafter with SolidWorks experience who enjoys fast-paced, project-based design work and wants to grow into a key contributor on a tight-knit, high-performing team.
What You’ll Do
Design custom hydraulic cylinders for customers across a range of industries
Create detailed SolidWorks models, drawings, and documentation
Treat each design as its own project from start to finish
Collaborate with team members to refine and optimize designs
Continuously improve speed, accuracy, and efficiency
With training and experience, you’ll be able to complete 1–2 standard cylinder designs per day
What Makes This Role Different
Every day is different – you’ll rarely design the same thing twice
Project ownership – see your work go from concept to completion
Skill growth – we train you to become faster, sharper, and more capable over time
Hands-on environment – work closely with a real-world product, not just screens
✅ What We’re Looking For
Experience with SolidWorks (required)
Background in Mechanical Engineering, Design, Drafting, or similar
Ability to manage multiple designs in a fast-paced environment
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving
Motivated, dependable, and ready to grow with a team
Work Environment
In-office position (no remote work)
Collaborative, team-driven atmosphere
Real-time feedback and hands-on learning
Compensation
Hourly pay (based on experience)
Opportunity for growth as your productivity and skill increase