Milling Programmer

Develop programs, processes, setup, and in-process sheets for CNC metalworking and cutting equipment to perform machining functions and produce quality products per print. Must be able to setup, troubleshoot, and operate CNC machinery.

Responsibilities

• Develop, write, and maintain CNC machine programs to perform various machining processes.
• Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings, engineering models, materials, specifications, and geometric dimensions & tolerances (GD&T) to determine machining methods and sequences of operations.
• Make proper cutting tool selections considering materials, speeds, type of cutters, feeds, control system limitations, and company tooling standards.
• Develop setup sheets and maintain files with change control over these documents.
• Use knowledge of raw materials, tooling, production processes, quality control, and costs to maximize effective manufacturing of product.
• Optimize programs and processes (including documentation) to ensure safety, quality, and eliminate unnecessary scrap or downtime.
• Plan the machining process with a quality mindset, targeting a “get it right the first time and every time thereafter” goal.
• Participate in the contract review process and provide information on machining processes and estimated setup and cycle times to support quotes and process routers.
• Communicate and confer with manufacturing, engineering, and production personnel to exchange technical information.
• Setup and operate CNC machines to prove out programs and processes, making program adjustments as required.
• Select appropriate tools and machines for machining work preparation.
• Revise existing programs and documentation to reflect revision changes.
• Responsible for storage, organization, and revision control of all programs and information in controlled files.
• Partner with engineering in the design of fixturing for CNC machines.
• Conduct interviews with candidates for the machining department.
• Work and confer with all necessary departments to exchange technical and customer information and proactively address issues.
• Act as a resource for all machining departments, team leaders, and employees.
• Develop strong and productive working relationships with all shifts and levels of the organization.
• Problem solve machining issues using Root Cause Analysis and offer solutions to resolve problems.
• Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Review programs or blueprints to determine and set machine operations, sequencing, finished workpiece dimensions, and numerical control sequences.
• Transfer commands from servers to CNC modules using computer network links.
• Calculate machine speed and feed ratios, and the size and position of cuts.
• Monitor machine operations and control panel displays, comparing readings to specifications to detect problems.
• Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds indicating dull cutting tools or excessive vibration and adjust machines accordingly.
• Adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when necessary.
• Set controls to regulate machining and enter commands or load control media into machine controllers.
• Perform part inspection and measure dimensions of in-process and finished workpieces to ensure conformance to print specifications using precision measuring instruments, optical comparator, CMM, or vision machines.
• Communicate with manufacturing, engineering, and production personnel to exchange information and problem solve issues.
• Assist with corrective and preventative actions as required.
• Complete all documentation per ISO 13485 and FDA requirements.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in CNC setup and advanced operation.
• 2+ years of CAM software programming experience.
• Proficiency in CNC programming, comprehension of G and M code language, and working knowledge of off-line programming software applications.
• Ability to program, setup, and operate CNC machining centers.
• Ability to read and understand drawings, engineering solid models, and be familiar with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of CNC equipment and tooling.
• Proficient in the use of all machine shop precision measuring equipment including micrometer, caliper, optical comparator, and vision machines.
• Proficient in machine shop math.
• Basic understanding of Solidworks preferred.
• Experience in ISO/FDA environment preferred.
• Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, and quality control.
• Excellent manual dexterity and hand/eye coordination.
• High accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to troubleshoot and problem solve machining quality and other issues.
• Ability to read and comprehend work instructions.
• Ability to repeat the same physical and mental activities over and over.
• Ability to maintain a sense of urgency, handle stressful situations, multitask, and prioritize work.
• Ability to work in a team environment as well as autonomously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities.

Milling Programming Requirements

• Working knowledge and experience with Esprit CAM software.
• Working knowledge and experience with Mazak, DMG, and Haas 3, 4, & 5 axis Milling machines preferred.
• Working knowledge, experience, and understanding of Mazak, Nexus 640, Haas, and Heidenhain controls.
• Working knowledge and experience with PowerMill CAM software is a plus.
• Solidworks software experience is a plus.

Work Environment

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Includes exposure to both office and shop floor environments, sounds and noise levels that can be distracting or uncomfortable, moving mechanical parts, coolants, and oils. The work environment is temperature controlled.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to stand or walk; use hands, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to sit or stand for up to 12 hours per day.
• Requires repetitive movement, bending, and twisting.