Numerical Control Programmer 3 (contract)

About the role

Join a high-performing fabrication team supporting aerospace structural production in Auburn, WA. As a contractor Numerical Control Programmer (NCP) on our Machining/Tooling team, you'll drive the NC programming, setup documentation, and machining strategy for complex multi-axis parts used on Boeing commercial airplanes. You will collaborate closely with planning, aerospace engineering, tooling, and shop-floor operators to turn engineered concepts into producible, high-quality parts. This role is ideal for hands-on programmers who enjoy solving machining challenges, optimizing workflows, and seeing their programs executed on the shop floor. This is a contract assignment through a Boeing approved 3rd party.

Primary Responsibilities

• Create, verify, and revise Machine Control Data (MCD), tooling geometry, and setup documentation for multi-axis CNC machines (primarily 5-axis)
• Interpret engineering drawings, planning documentation, and manufacturing requirements to develop robust NC programs for aluminum and hard-metal parts
• Develop multiple setups and operations for complex part geometries, ensuring fixturing, tooling, and machine selection support producibility and tolerances
• Produce clear setup sheets and operator instructions that enable consistent and safe machine operation
• Use simulation/verification tools (e.g., Vericut) to validate programs and eliminate collisions or gouges prior to shop-floor execution
• Troubleshoot and iterate programs based on first-article inspections, in-process feedback, and shop-floor testing
• Coordinate with planning, manufacturing engineering, tooling design, and machine operators to optimize cycle times, reduce scrap, and address manufacturability concerns
• For Level 4: Lead the design of custom fixtures and complex tooling arrangements and define machining strategies across multiple operations and machines
• Maintain program documentation, revisions, and configuration control per company/contract requirements
• Work under general direction

Required Skills

• 5+ years of NC programming experience for production machining or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated experience programming 5-axis CNC machines for aerospace parts (aluminum and hard metals)
• Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing documentation
• Proficient in CATIA V5 NC programming
• Proficient in NC simulation/verification tools such as Vericut
• Ability to create clear setup documentation and operator instructions
• Able to work 2nd shift schedule as specified
• Contractor eligibility to work under the terms of the engagement

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience creating custom fixtures and tooling for multi-setup machining operations
• Experience defining machining strategy and selecting appropriate machines and processes for part families
• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing processes, inspection practices, and first-article requirements
• Strong problem-solving skills with a track record of reducing cycle times or improving producibility
• Effective communicator with experience collaborating across planning, engineering, and shop-floor teams
• Experience with additional CAM systems or post-processors commonly used in aerospace environments

Pay

55 - 60 USD hourly

Benefits

Optional Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K