CNC Mill & Wired EDM Programmer

About the role

Houston Precision Fasteners produces high strength, close tolerance, fatigue rated fasteners using materials such as alloy steel, 718, titanium, waspaloy, A-286 and multiphase. Our fasteners support most current space programs as well as our nation's fleet of military aircraft and weapon systems. We are dedicated to providing a superior product to our customers and seek only highly qualified people who take pride in their work to be part of our growing team.

The CNC Mill & Wired EDM Programmer will be responsible for programming, setting up, and operating 3/4/5-axis CNC Milling machines and Wire EDM equipment to produce high-precision tooling, dies, fixtures, and specialized aerospace fastener components. The ideal candidate possesses deep hands-on expertise with offline CAM software (ESPRIT CAM strongly preferred), tight-tolerance machining, blueprint reading/GD&T, and experience machining high-temperature aerospace superalloys (e.g., Inconel 718, MP35N, A286, Titanium, and PH Stainless Steels).

Responsibilities

• Develop, verify, and optimize G-code/M-code programs for multi-axis CNC Mills and Wire EDM machines using offline CAM software (ESPRIT preferred).
• Select optimal cutting strategies, speeds, feeds, wire tension, burn settings, and tooling configurations for aerospace materials and hard tooling.
• Perform complete setups, workholding configuration, part prove-outs, and production runs on CNC Mills and Wire EDM machines.
• Establish work offsets, zero points, wire threading parameters, and tool lengths accurately.
• Design and fabricate custom workholding, soft jaws, and EDM holding fixtures to support fastener manufacturing processes (hot forging dies, trim dies, thread rolling tooling, trim plates).
• Perform first-piece and in-process dimensional inspections using precision measuring equipment (micrometers, calipers, optical comparators, height gauges, pitch micrometers).
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, and ASME Y14.5 GD&T callouts to ensure zero-defect compliance under AS9100 quality management standards.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance on CNC mills and Wire EDM units (dielectric fluid management, wire guide inspection, filtration systems).
• Troubleshoot machining anomalies, tool wear, chatter, and program errors to improve cycle times and tool life.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience programming, setting up, and operating both CNC Mills and Wire EDM machines in a precision manufacturing environment (Aerospace, Defense, or Medical preferred).
• Proven offline CAM programming experience. ESPRIT CAM proficiency is strongly preferred (SolidWorks/Mastercam experience is a plus).
• Experience working with high-temperature nickel alloys, cobalt alloys, stainless steels, and tool steels (Inconel, A286, MP35N, H13, D2).
• Expert knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and engineering drawing interpretation.
• Deep understanding of G-code programming, macro variables, machine controls (Haas, Fanuc, Heidenhain, Mitsubishi, Charmilles, or ONA).
• Proven experience in part setup, fixture design, and precision alignment.
• High School Diploma or GED required; Machinist Apprenticeship, Trade School Certificate, or Associate Degree in Precision Machining/Manufacturing Technology highly preferred.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. independently.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work in a precision machine shop setting for extended periods.
• Strict adherence to safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and AS9100 quality procedures.