CNC Programming Engineer 3

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for multi-axis and multi-spindle CNC lathes, mills, and other machining equipment.
• Program and support machining operations including turning, milling, drilling, threading, and complex multi-axis machining.
• Translate engineering drawings, method sheets, work instructions, specifications, and customer requirements into efficient CNC machining programs.
• Design, develop, and improve complex tooling, fixtures, jigs, form tools, cutters, holders, and special workholding devices.
• Select appropriate tooling, cutting parameters, machining strategies, and materials to maximize tool life, optimize cycle times, and ensure product quality.
• Prepare setup sheets, tooling layouts, process documentation, and revision-controlled CNC program files.
• Maintain tooling records, drawings, part numbers, setup documentation, and engineering files.
• Validate new CNC programs through first-piece inspections, prove-outs, simulation, and production trials.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, programming, and process-related issues.
• Support automation initiatives including robotic loading systems, gantry systems, and other advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Lead or support the installation, programming, validation, and integration of new CNC equipment into production.
• Create and maintain process validation documentation, shop process manuals, setup instructions, and manufacturing standards.
• Train and mentor CNC machinists, setup technicians, and programmers on new programs, tooling, equipment, and machining techniques.
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Tool Engineering, Quality, Production Control, Purchasing, Maintenance, and Operations to support production requirements.
• Input and maintain required ERP system information related to programming, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
• Prepare reports summarizing process improvements, tooling cost reductions, cycle time improvements, and productivity gains.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of CNC machining processes, tooling design, and precision manufacturing.
• Advanced knowledge of Fanuc and/or Siemens CNC controls.
• Advanced proficiency with GibbsCAM, SolidWorks, and CAD/CAM software.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and aerospace manufacturing standards.
• Experience programming multi-axis CNC machines including turning centers, milling machines, and complex machining operations.
• Strong knowledge of cutting tools, workholding, machining strategies, feeds, speeds, and tooling optimization.
• Experience with machining aerospace alloys, including stainless steels, titanium, Inconel, and other high-temperature nickel-based alloys.
• Knowledge of automation systems including robotic loading, gantry systems, and lights-out manufacturing.
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
• Able to manage multiple priorities while supporting production schedules.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate across engineering, operations, and manufacturing teams.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing methodologies.
• Green Belt Certification preferred.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education, technical training, and relevant experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of CNC programming experience in aerospace, precision machining, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience programming multi-axis CNC equipment including turning and milling centers.
• Demonstrated experience designing tooling and fixtures for complex machining applications.
• Experience supporting new product introductions, process validation, and production improvements.
• Experience implementing machining process improvements resulting in measurable reductions in tooling costs, cycle times, scrap, or downtime.
• Experience supporting ERP systems and engineering documentation preferred.