CNC Programmer - CATIA

When you work at ALIGN PRECISION you are joining a team that takes pride in delivering precision solutions for leading aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and high-tech industry OEMs.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced CATIA Programmer to develop CNC programs for large-scale aerostructure components machined on multi-axis gantry mills. This role is responsible for translating CATIA V5 design models into machinable toolpaths for complex, close-tolerance structures used in aerospace and defense platforms. The ideal candidate has strong CATIA modeling/surfacing skills combined with hands-on programming experience on large-envelope gantry machines. If you are looking to join a company whose employees thrive through continual learning and mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this position is for you.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and optimize 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC programs using CATIA V5 (Prismatic/Surface Machining, Advanced Machining workbenches) for large gantry-style machining centers
• Program complex aerostructure components including monolithic wing skins, spars, ribs, and large sheet metal detail parts directly from CATIA design models and engineering drawings
• Build and maintain manufacturing models, stock definitions, fixture assemblies, and tooling libraries within CATIA
• Optimize toolpaths for material removal rates, cycle time, tool life, and surface finish while managing part deflection and thin-wall stability on large structures
• Select appropriate cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and work-holding strategies for aluminum, titanium, and composite materials
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineering, tooling, and quality teams to ensure programs meet GD&T requirements and first-article inspection standards
• Perform program verification and simulation (e.g., Vericut, CATIA NC simulation) to eliminate collisions, gouges, and fixture interference prior to machine floor deployment
• Support first-article setup and provide on-machine troubleshooting, including program edits and offset adjustments
• Post-process CATIA toolpaths and troubleshoot post-processor output for specific gantry machine controllers
• Maintain and update program documentation, setup sheets, and tool lists in accordance with AS9100 and customer quality requirements
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times and improve process capability on large-format work
• Participate in DFM (Design for Manufacturability) reviews for new aerostructure programs, providing manufacturing input on CATIA design models
• Regular, reliable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of the role

Requirements

• 5+ years of CNC programming experience using CATIA V5 (Manufacturing/Machining workbenches), with a focus on large-part or aerostructure machining
• Demonstrated experience programming multi-axis gantry or large-envelope machining centers
• Strong proficiency with CATIA V5 surfacing and part design modules in addition to manufacturing modules
• Strong understanding of aerospace materials (aluminum alloys, titanium) and their machining characteristics
• Proficiency reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D models
• Experience with toolpath simulation/verification software (Vericut or equivalent)
• Working knowledge of work-holding and fixturing strategies for large, flexible parts
• Familiarity with post-processor logic and the ability to troubleshoot post output
• Strong understanding of AS9100 and aerospace quality documentation requirements
• Must be able to obtain and maintain any required government clearances/authorizations (ITAR compliance)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience programming 5-axis simultaneous machining on large gantry platforms
• Familiarity with PLM/PDM systems (ENOVIA, Windchill, or similar) for CATIA model management
• Experience with composite trimming/drilling programs in addition to metallic structures
• Prior experience in a defense or commercial aerospace structures manufacturing environment
• Cross-training or working knowledge of Mastercam or other CAM systems
• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma exposure
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)

Physical and Work Environment

• Ability to work on a manufacturing floor with exposure to large-scale CNC equipment
• Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs) and standing/walking for extended periods
• May require flexibility to support multiple shifts or production schedules