Cnc Programmer

Job Title:

CNC Programmer

Job Description

This position is responsible for programming, setting up, and running advanced CNC machines-particularly 5‑axis mills-to produce highly precise metal parts in a full‑service machine shop and metal fabrication environment. The role combines hands-on machining with CAD/CAM design and prototyping, including design for manufacturability and continuous improvement of quality and efficiency.

Responsibilities

+ Set up and run 5‑axis CNC machines to manufacture highly precise metal parts.

+ Program CNC machines using Mastercam (or similar CAM software), creating and adjusting programs and toolpaths.

+ Review engineering drawings, blueprints, and customer requirements to develop a complete manufacturing strategy from start to finish.

+ Create detailed process documentation and paperwork to be followed by other machinists.

+ Read, understand, and adjust G and M code to optimize machine performance and part quality.

+ Use CAD/CAM tools to support design and programming of parts, including prototyping work.

+ Contribute to design for manufacturability (DFM) by thinking through how parts should be made, not just executing existing plans.

+ Check finished parts using appropriate measuring tools to ensure dimensional accuracy and adherence to specifications.

+ Make process and program adjustments to improve quality, efficiency, and resolve machining or programming issues.

+ Apply extensive knowledge of CNC machine tools, controls, tooling, and machining strategies to complex geometries.

+ Collaborate with shop personnel to ensure smooth handoff of programs and process documentation to production.

Essential Skills

+ Proven ability to program CNC machines using Mastercam software.

+ Experience setting up and running advanced CNC machines, particularly 5‑axis mills.

+ Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints accurately.

+ Skill in reading, understanding, and adjusting G and M code.

+ Capability to develop and document manufacturing processes from start to finish.

+ Strong critical thinking skills to resolve process and machining issues as they arise.

+ Extensive knowledge of CNC machine tools and controls, including 5‑axis systems and common control platforms such as Fanuc and Siemens.

+ Extensive knowledge of tooling and machining strategies for complex geometries.

+ Hands-on machining experience in a prototype or development environment.

+ Proficiency with CAM programming for 5‑axis CNC machinery.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+

Experience with CAD software such as Solid Works for design and modeling.

+ Background in design for manufacturability (DFM) and process development.

+ Familiarity with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and its application to precision machining.

+ Experience in a full‑service machine shop environment that may include milling, turning, sheet metal fabrication, welding, assembly, and finishing processes such as paint, powder coat, and plating.

+ Ability to collaborate effectively with machinists and other shop personnel using clear process documentation.

+ Comfort working on both the programming/design side and the hands-on machining side of production.

Work Environment

This role is based on the shop floor in a hands-on machine shop environment with access to a dedicated desk space for the design and programming portion of the work. You will spend most of your time on your feet setting up and running CNC machines, working directly with tools, fixtures, and parts. The facility is clean and climate-controlled, offering a more modern and organized setting than a typical dirty machine shop.

The culture emphasizes quality, precision, and thoughtful manufacturing strategies rather than high-volume, chaotic production, providing a professional environment focused on craftsmanship and continuous improvement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hillsboro, OR.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $38.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific…