CNC Programmer - Mastercam

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Mastercam Programmer to develop, optimize, and support CNC programs for the machining of large-scale aerostructures on multi-axis gantry mills. This role is critical to producing complex, close-tolerance structural components for aerospace and defense platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and optimize 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC programs in Mastercam for large gantry-style machining centers.
• Program complex aerostructure components including monolithic wing skins, spars, ribs, and large sheet metal detail parts from 3D models and engineering drawings.
• Optimize toolpaths for material removal rates, cycle time, tool life, and surface finish while managing part deflection and thin-wall stability.
• 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) 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.
• Interpret and program from engineering models (CATIA, NX, or similar) and native/neutral CAD file formats.
• 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.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC programming experience using Mastercam, with a focus on large-part or aerostructure machining.
• Demonstrated experience programming multi-axis gantry or large-envelope machining centers.
• 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 CATIA V5 or Siemens NX for model preparation and surfacing.
• Experience with composite trimming/drilling programs in addition to metallic structures.
• Prior experience in a defense or commercial aerospace structures manufacturing environment.
• 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 & 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.

Note: This job description outlines the essential functions and requirements of the role, which are subject to modification for reasonable accommodation. The listed qualifications are the minimum levels required, and this document does not create an employment contract.