Pre-Production Programmer

• Base Pay $25.00 - $35.00 / Hour
• Employee Type Full Time
• Required Degree High school

Contact information

• Phone

Description

The Pre-Production Programmer is responsible for translating customer-approved drawings into production-ready files for our Saw, CNC, and Water Jet operators. Working under the direction of the Production Manager, this role assigns tooling- and material-specific CAD layers in accordance with department protocol, then nests parts onto work pieces to avoid flaws and blemishes and maximize material yield. This role also manages a queue within the company's project tracking software, and collaborates with Sales, Purchasing, and Project Coordinators to resolve questions or discrepancies before files reach the floor.

• Importing fabrication files (.dxf files) into CAM software, verifying dimensions, cutouts, edge profiles, and fabrication notes against job specifications before releasing files to the floor.
• Assign CAD layers in AutoCAD to match the tooling, bit paths, and cutting sequences required by each specific Saw, CNC, and Water Jet machine.
• Nest parts onto slab layouts for both natural and engineered stone, maximizing material yield while accounting for veining, pattern movement, seam placement, and defect areas.
• Review completed programs for accuracy and completeness before releasing them to operators.
• Coordinate with Project Coordinators to resolve questions about job specs, templates, or scheduling conflicts, keeping jobs moving smoothly through pre‑production.

• Prior experience with AutoCAD or comparable CAD software is required, including creating, modifying, and organizing layers; experience in stone fabrication, cabinetry, or another CNC‑driven manufacturing environment is a plus.
• Familiarity with Galileo CAM or comparable CAM/nesting software used to program CNC, saw, or waterjet equipment.
• Working knowledge of .dxf file structures, with the ability to troubleshoot import, formatting, or layer issues between design software and machine‑programming software.
• Understanding of natural and engineered stone slab characteristics (veining, movement, pattern‑matching, seams) sufficient to nest parts for both material yield and finished appearance.
• A team‑oriented communicator who works well with the Production Manager, Project Coordinators, Sales, and Purchasing to resolve job‑specific questions.

Accurately creates, edits, and formats CAD files and machine‑specific layers, translating customer‑approved drawings into production‑ready programs.

Visualizes how parts fit together on a slab and nests layouts that balance material yield with veining, pattern movement, and seam placement.

Manages a programming calendar/queue in the company's project tracking software, sequencing jobs to keep Saw, CNC, and Water Jet operators supplied with ready‑to‑run files.

Works cross‑functionally with the Production Manager and Project Coordinators to clarify job specs, resolve discrepancies, and keep pre‑production on schedule.

• Offering a full‑time position with competitive pay based on experience and qualifications, job stability, and opportunities for advancement.
• Having a comprehensive benefit package that includes:
• o Health Insurance with employer premium contributions