Cnc Programmer

About the role

This role develops and writes programs for computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines using engineering specifications and drawings. The CNC Programmer reviews engineering drawings to define part configurations, determine the type and sequence of machine operations, and select appropriate cutters while considering speeds, feeds, control system limitations, and other critical factors. The position contributes to solutions for a range of complex technical problems to ensure machining projects meet established deadlines and production schedules.

Responsibilities

• Develop programs for machining parts, tools, and sheet metal on computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools.
• Review engineering drawings and specifications to define part configurations and determine the type and sequence of CNC machine operations.
• Independently determine proper cutter selections for each part, taking into account speeds, types of cutters, feeds, and control system limitations.
• Participate in determining program routines to achieve the most efficient computer calculation of dimensional and machining requirements for each part.
• Test, debug, and modify existing CNC programs to incorporate engineering changes or improve program performance and efficiency.
• Participate in the preparation and maintenance of departmental documentation, including operational instructions and standard procedures.
• Serve as a primary contact with suppliers and vendors when needed to support CNC programming and machining activities.
• Provide direction and guidance to less experienced professional staff, helping them understand CNC programming methods and best practices.
• Contribute to the development of new processes and methods to improve CNC programming, machining quality, and production efficiency.
• Identify technical issues, analyze and interpret data, and develop solutions to a variety of complex CNC programming and machining problems.
• Document, report, and present findings and recommendations clearly and accurately to stakeholders.
• Organize, schedule, and coordinate work assignments to ensure projects meet milestones and established completion dates.
• Represent the organization as a knowledgeable technical resource on external projects and with external partners.
• Work in a safe manner at all times, following established operating procedures, practices, and applicable laws and regulations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer programming or a related field and five or more years of progressive experience programming computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, or an equivalent of approximately eleven years of CNC programming experience in lieu of formal education.
• Aerospace CNC programming experience.
• Experience programming complex parts for CNC machining.
• Complete understanding of CNC application principles, theories, and concepts.
• Demonstrated ability to organize, schedule, and coordinate work assignments to meet project milestones and completion dates.
• Prominent ability to contribute to the development of new processes and resolve a variety of difficult technical issues.
• Strong customer focus and the ability to understand and meet customer requirements.
• Ability to identify issues, analyze and interpret data, and develop solutions to complex problems.
• Excellent analytical skills for evaluating machining requirements and program performance.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to accurately document, report, and present findings.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to guide and support other employees.
• Ability to initiate, plan, and manage projects from concept through completion.
• Ability to represent the organization as a knowledgeable technical resource on external projects.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with CNC programming tools and related software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work extended hours and travel as required to support project and production needs.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Aerospace manufacturing experience with CNC machining of complex parts.
• Experience using NX or similar CAD/CAM software; training is available for candidates with strong CNC programming experience.
• Experience working with sheet metal and tool machining in a CNC environment.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor or provide direction to less experienced staff.
• Experience preparing operational instructions and standard procedures for CNC programming and machining.
• Ability to communicate effectively with suppliers and vendors to support machining and programming requirements.
• Willingness to relocate may be supported for highly qualified candidates, with preference for candidates who are local to the facility.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $80,000.00 - $120,000.00/yr. COMPETITIVE PAY The Company’s compensation philosophy is built on providing compensation programs that are competitive, equitable and compliant with applicable laws and regulations. Jobs at General Atomics are benchmarked against nationally recognized salary surveys in order to provide market competitive compensation. ANNUAL SALARY REVIEW The Annual Review process provides an opportunity for employees to be rewarded for their performance and contributions made towards achieving successful business results. INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PAY The Incentive Compensation Plan (ICP) is designed to drive individual performance, Company growth and the achievement of financial results. Employees have the opportunity to earn a bonus payout that is tied to individual and Company performance.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Pension Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Disability Insurance
• Lifetime Life Insurance
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
• Group Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity
• Business Travel Accident Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Comprehensive Annual Leave (CAL)
• Holiday and Other Paid Leaves
• Flexible Work Schedules

Work Environment

This position is fully onsite at a manufacturing facility in Tupelo and operates on a schedule of approximately 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., five days per week. The role is based in a hands-on CNC machining and aerospace manufacturing environment that involves working around machine tools, sheet metal, and complex parts. The work setting emphasizes strict adherence to safety procedures, established operating practices, and applicable regulations. Employees collaborate closely with engineering, production, and vendor partners and may be required to work extended hours and travel as needed to support project deadlines and customer requirements. Dress and attire are typical for an industrial manufacturing environment and must comply with safety and facility guidelines.