CNC Programmer & Manufacturing Engineer – Aerospace Job Meriden area,Connecticut USA,Manufacturing / Production

As a growing aerospace manufacturer, we are seeking two CNC Programmers / Manufacturing Engineers to join the team in the Hartford, CT area, at the senior and mid levels. This is a hands-on, shop-floor role where you’ll program VTLs, mills, and lathes, prove out first articles, and help build the processes behind critical aerospace and defense components. Pay is $90,000-$115,000 plus a 5% bonus opportunity.

The site is in a period of rapid growth. It’s on track to become a $100 million operation within three years, has already added a second shift, and is modernizing its equipment. The right person is a former machinist turned programmer who loves being on the floor and wants to help take a growing operation to the next level.

What You’ll Do as the CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer:

Program CNC VTLs, mills, and lathes using Mastercam, focusing on medium- to large-diameter ring work from 24 to 64 inches
Modify and optimize existing CNC programs to improve cycle times, tooling strategies, and machine utilization
Set up and run first article parts, verify them with hand gauges, and release jobs to production
Determine manufacturing methods, sequences, fixturing, raw materials, and inspection methods
Create setup sheets, operation sheets, and process documentation for the shop and outside vendors
Develop routings, apply time standards, and enter routing data into the company’s systems
Design fixtures and support tooling development
Provide detailed quotes and estimates for precision-machined components
Troubleshoot machining and process issues directly on the production floor
Help modernize older equipment and support equipment relocation and production redistribution projects
Partner with machinists, production, quality, and vendors, and balance multiple priorities based on customer demand
Lead continuous improvement efforts as part of the company’s lean and Industry 4.0 initiatives

Must-Haves as the CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer:

5+ years of CNC programming or manufacturing engineering experience
Mastercam programming experience
Experience programming CNC VTLs, mills, and lathes
Hands-on machinist background, with the ability to run and fully understand CNC machines
Experience setting up and running first article parts, including hand gauge verification
Strong GD&T knowledge, with the ability to read and explain blueprint callouts
A hands-on approach and the desire to spend real time on the production floor
Openness to direct feedback and coaching
U.S. person status (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) to satisfy ITAR requirements
A bachelor’s degree, 5-10 years of related experience or training, or an equivalent combination
Ability to work onsite in the Hartford, CT area

Nice-to-Haves as the CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer:

Siemens NX CAD experience
Experience with additional CAD/CAM or verification software
Experience programming and running older or legacy machine tools
Tool room experience
Fixture and tooling design experience
Quoting and estimating experience
Aerospace, defense, or other precision machining experience
Large-part turning or ring work experience
Experience with ERP systems such as Infor LN or Baan

Offers:

Base salary of $90,000-$115,000, depending on experience, with flexibility for an exceptional candidate
5% bonus opportunity
Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one, with a choice of PPO and high-deductible plans
An HSA with company contributions on the high-deductible plan
A wellness program that lowers medical premiums when you complete your annual preventive exam
401(k) eligibility on day one, with a company match of 3% on the first 6% you contribute
PTO you can use right away, plus a floating holiday
Tuition reimbursement of up to $3,000 per year
Disability and voluntary life insurance
A first-shift, salaried schedule
A structured 30-60-90 day onboarding plan with a buddy system
The chance to grow with a rapidly expanding site supporting commercial aviation, defense, and space programs