Cnc Programmer And Operator

Mechanical Engineer – Advanced CNC Programmer

This position focuses on advanced CNC programming in a high-mix prototype and production environment. The mechanical engineer will create complete manufacturing packages—including NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files—for 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn machines. The role combines expert-level work holding and fixture design, deep knowledge of machining processes, and strong collaboration with manufacturing engineers and machinists to support both prototype and production work.

Responsibilities

• Develop optimized NC programs for 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn CNC machines to support high-mix prototype and production work.
• Create detailed setup sheets that clearly define tooling, fixturing, work offsets, and other critical setup information for shop floor execution.
• Generate and review simulation files to verify CNC programs prior to release, ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate machining operations.
• Deliver complete, ready-to-run manufacturing packages that include NC code, setup documentation, and simulation data for production teams.
• Design custom fixtures and work holding solutions for complex and high-precision parts, ensuring stability, repeatability, and ease of use.
• Optimize work holding strategies to improve efficiency, reduce setup time, and enhance part quality and consistency.
• Collaborate closely with machinists on fixture implementation, adjustment, and refinement based on real-world performance and feedback.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, and feeds to achieve optimal performance, balancing cycle time, tool life, and part quality.
• Apply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles by reviewing part designs and recommending modifications to reduce cost and improve manufacturability.
• Support transitions from prototype to production by developing scalable programming solutions and standardized processes.
• Troubleshoot CNC programming and machining issues on the floor, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective actions.
• Provide technical guidance on machining capabilities, limitations, tooling options, and process improvements to engineering and production teams.
• Set up and run CNC machines as needed to validate programs, prove out new processes, and confirm fixture and work holding performance.
• Use 3D design tools to support fixture design, work holding concepts, and DFM recommendations for complex geometries.

Essential Skills

• At least 8 years of advanced CNC programming experience in a production or high-mix environment.
• Expert-level work holding and fixture design capabilities for complex and precision parts.
• Proficiency programming 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn CNC machines.
• Ability to deliver complete manufacturing packages, including NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files, ready for shop floor use.
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling selection, cutting strategies, and process optimization.
• Hands-on experience setting up and running CNC machines to validate programs and processes.
• Experience applying Design for Manufacturability (DFM), including the ability to review part designs and recommend cost- and process-improving changes.
• Proficiency in 3D design for fixture and work holding development and for evaluating part manufacturability.
• Background as a CNC programmer with a focus on work holding design and practical shop-floor support.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in ISO 9001 certified manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency with Mastercam programming software.
• Experience using ESPRIT programming software.
• Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work closely with manufacturing engineers and machinists.
• Ability to troubleshoot programming and machining issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Comfort providing technical guidance on machining capabilities, limitations, and best practices.

Work Environment

The role is based in a high-mix prototype and production machining environment that uses 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn CNC equipment. You will work closely with manufacturing engineers and machinists on the shop floor, supporting real-time problem solving and continuous improvement.…