CNC Machinist-CAM Programmer

Job Description

This is an opportunity to join the Jewelry Development & Innovation Workshop (JDIW) at Tiffany & Co. — one of the most iconic luxury brands in the world, with a legacy spanning nearly 200 years of unrivaled craftsmanship - in a role that demands both deep technical mastery and independent, engineering-driven thinking.

Based in New York City, this position carries full, end-to-end responsibility for the CAM programming and CNC machining workflow: from initial CAD review and toolpath development through fixturing, setup, machine operation, part inspection, and iterative refinement. The CNC Machinist-CAM Programmer will author their own programs, operate their own machines, and take complete ownership of quality outcomes at every stage - producing technically demanding precision jewelry components that meet the uncompromising standards Tiffany & Co. requires.

We are seeking a candidate who brings genuine engineering judgment to each project: someone who anticipates and resolves manufacturability challenges before they escalate, contributes meaningfully to design and process discussions, and continuously elevates the technical standard of the team.

Key Accountabilities

CAM Programming & CNC Operations:

• The primary function of this role is to develop, optimize, and execute the complete CAM programming and CNC machining workflow for jewelry components, mock-ups, tools, templates, and models, in accordance with direction from Design and JDIW teams and in adherence to project timelines and delivery requirements. This is not a machine-operator role in the traditional sense; it is a position of full technical ownership, from program authorship to finished, inspected part.
• Assume complete ownership of the CAM programming process - from interpreting CAD files and 2D drawings through the development of fully optimized toolpath strategies, post-processed machine code, and setup documentation ready for execution.
• Apply comprehensive CAD/CAM knowledge to bridge design intent and machine execution: fluent in transitioning between CAD models, machining strategy, fixturing logic, and G-code, with the ability to identify and resolve manufacturability issues at the design stage - prior to machine loading.
• Demonstrate expert-level proficiency in Mastercam or an equivalent professional CAM platform (Fusion 360 CAM, hyperMILL, NX CAM, Esprit, or comparable), with a proven record of applying simultaneous 5-axis strategies to small, intricate parts across a range of materials.
• Operate and program across the full JDIW machining cell: four simultaneous 5-axis CNC milling centers and one CNC lathe with live tooling with the ability to select the appropriate machine and strategy for each component and geometry.
• Apply advanced micro machining techniques including precision tooling selection, micro-scale chip load management, workholding solutions for miniature components, and surface finish optimization, essential for meeting the dimensional tolerances and aesthetic standards required in fine jewelry production.
• Apply high-speed machining (HSM) strategies where applicable including trochoidal milling, constant chip-load toolpaths, and optimized feed and speed parameters to maximize material removal efficiency, extend tool life, and sustain surface quality on precision parts.
• Perform routine part inspection using precision measurement instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify conformance to specifications, with a strong emphasis on metal recovery and material efficiency.
• Conduct regular machine maintenance, calibration, and tooling changes to ensure sustained performance and equipment uptime.
• Demonstrate willingness to learn the laser engraving machine and other non-CNC workshop operations as needed.
• Proactively manage individual project queues, communicate risks early, and maintain the pace of iteration expected in a fast-moving R&D environment where each component presents unique technical requirements.

Communication:

• Proactively monitor individual timelines and project status.
• Adhere to the overall project schedules and ensure accurate, on-time completion of assignments.
• Identify and communicate to POD leadership and management any potential barriers or risks to delivery dates, and any project-related issues or concerns, as soon as they arise.
• Proactively communicate critical CAM programming or machining issues that may impact the manufacturing quality of the final product (e.g., toolpath errors, material inconsistencies, tolerance deviations, fixturing risks) at all stages of development.
• Adhere to all departmental policies and communicate effectively with management when deviations occur.
• Actively monitor and respond to emails in a timely and professional manner.

Support for Cross Functional Partners:

• Interface with Design, JDIW teams, and Manufacturing including during onsite visits to other facilities on product functionality, manufacturability, machining me…