CNC Programmer Lead

About the role

The CNC Programmer Lead directs and is responsible for the programming, setup and operation of 2, 3 and 4 axis CNC machines; as well as part inspection in a prototype and job shop environment. The programmer shall manage schedules; workflow from priorities set by production management.

Responsibilities

• Utilize software applications such as MasterCAM and DNC systems to support programming and machining operations.
• Evaluate, acquire, and secure tooling tailored to specific job requirements, factoring in material properties, geometric features, tolerances, equipment capabilities, and system rigidity.
• Independently set up, program, operate, and troubleshoot CNC Lathes and Mills.
• Oversee machine shop organization, safety, and maintenance.
• Determine starting stock requirements for costing and procurement, factoring in yield and scrap.
• Create setup sheets for part programs and discrete operations.
• Implement process improvements to reduce setup and machining times.
• Inspect completed work for accuracy using tools like calipers, height gauges, and micrometers.
• Mentor machinists on programming methods and best practices.
• Validate machining programs through simulations, dry runs, and prove-out processes.
• Monitor and maintain cycle times and ERP performance metrics.
• Track task completion times and labor distribution for financial reporting.
• Record job progress and quantities in ERP software.
• Ensure adherence to quality policies and procedures in all tasks.
• Oversee and ensure first pass yield on New Product Introduction (NPI) jobs meet established performance metrics.
• Provide guidance to engineering teams on selecting work holding solutions that support poka-yoke (error-proofing) processes and ensure operational efficiency.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Excellent attention to detail.
• Prior experience with CNC Machining & Programming thereof.
• Prior experience programming MasterCAM software or comparable.
• Able to read & interpret blueprints and technical drawings including GD&T.
• Sufficient knowledge of the tools, equipment, materials, methods, and standard practices of the trade.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Able to adapt to a changing work environment and competing demands.
• Able to measure with CMM, vernier calipers, micrometers and height gauges.
• Capable of working with minimal supervision.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position is a lead but no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

• Circularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
• Exposure to a hot and/or cold work environment, chemicals, fumes or airborne particles, loud noises, risk of electrical shock and vibration and/or other occupational hazards.
• Must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Regularly exposed to standing, walking, sitting, using hands and fingers, handling, feeling, and reaching with hands and arms.
• Frequently required to use hands and fingers; handle, feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
• Exposure to a hot and/or cold work environment, chemicals, fumes or airborne particles, loud noises, risk of electrical shock and vibration and/or other occupational hazards.
• Must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
• Exposure to a hot and/or cold work environment, chemicals, fumes or airborne particles, loud noises, risk of electrical shock and vibration and/or other occupational hazards.
• Must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.