CNC Lead Programmer

CNC Lead Programmer
Jackson, MI
Direct Hire | Full-Time | Onsite
Pay: $35+/hour

Our client is seeking a hands-on CNC Lead Programmer to take ownership of and help transform their CNC department. This is a high-impact role for someone who enjoys improving processes, leading a small team, and building a more efficient, lights-out machining environment.
This position will oversee daily CNC operations, programming, setup support, first-piece quality verification, and continuous improvement initiatives across the department.

Position Overview
The CNC Lead Programmer will lead a team of 2–5 CNC operators while working closely with production leadership to improve efficiency, programming standards, and machining processes. The ideal candidate will have strong CAM programming experience, advanced G-code knowledge, and hands-on experience with both milling and turning environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Horizontal and Vertical Mills using Auto Desk Fusion
• Utilize advanced NC Cloud / AI CAM Assist technology
• Support and optimize CNC turning operations using GibbsCAM
• Read, modify, and troubleshoot advanced G-code and macro programming
• Utilize common variables and scheduled programming techniques
• Support tombstone management systems (TMS) for Horizontal Mills
• Lead and mentor a team of 2–5 CNC operators
• Perform first-piece inspections and ensure department quality standards
• Work closely with supervisors to improve machining efficiency and throughput
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and help build lights-out machining capabilities
• Support setup troubleshooting and machining process improvements

Qualifications

• Strong CNC programming experience in milling and turning environments
• Proficiency with Auto Desk Fusion CAM software
• Experience with Gibbs
  
  CAM preferred
• Experience with Haas and Okuma controllers required
• Strong understanding of GD&T
• Ability to read and edit advanced G-code and macros
• Experience using precision measurement tools including calipers, micrometers, and bore gauges
• Leadership experience in a manufacturing or machining environment
• Self-motivated mindset with strong problem-solving abilities
• Experience with tombstone management systems is a plus

Schedule

• Standard manufacturing hours:
  Monday – Thursday, 5:00 AM – 3:45 PM
• Leads typically work 5 days per week
• Occasional extended shifts up to 12 hours/day as needed
• Saturdays: 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM (minimal overtime recently due to facility efficiency improvements)

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to make a real impact within a growing machining environment and help shape the future of the CNC department.