Cnc Programmer

Job Title: CNC Programmer

Job Description

This role focuses on independently developing advanced CNC programming solutions while taking growing ownership of manufacturing processes, supporting training efforts, and driving continuous process improvements. The CNC Programmer will create and optimize programs in Mastercam, apply tooling strategies and GD&T principles, and collaborate closely with machine shop, inspection, engineering, and planning teams to support high-quality production in a precision machining environment.

Responsibilities

• Independently develop and improve CNC programs using Mastercam for 3-axis and simple 5-axis machining operations.
• Own and lead 5-axis programming work, including the creation of usable 5-axis toolpaths.
• Create and utilize standard manufacturing routes and write SMR, 3-axis, and simple 5-axis programs to support production.
• Develop high-speed and 3-axis toolpaths, including appropriate stepdown and finish pass strategies.
• Design simple tooling and perform simple solid modeling to support machining operations.
• Select appropriate tooling and machining resources to achieve quality, efficiency, and cost targets.
• Create detailed setup sheets to ensure consistent and repeatable machining processes.
• Verify CNC programs using Vericut and other verification tools to ensure safe and accurate execution.
• Program vacuum fixture parts and solve simple process challenges related to fixturing and machining.
• Perform process improvement activities to enhance productivity, quality, and repeatability.
• Set up and troubleshoot CNC machines to ensure programs run correctly and efficiently.
• Provide estimated completion dates (ECDs) for create, update, and process improvement jobs.
• Support production prove-outs by collaborating with machine operators and cross-functional teams on the shop floor.
• Train and support Level 1–2 programmers, sharing best practices and helping build programming capability within the team.
• Work cross-functionally with Machine Shop, Inspection, Engineering, and Planning to resolve issues and optimize processes.
• Maintain safe, organized work practices in compliance with facility standards and procedures.
• Communicate effectively with team members, ask clarifying questions, and maintain professionalism under pressure.
• Perform miscellaneous duties as assigned to support overall manufacturing and programming objectives.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 2 years of CNC machine operation experience.
• Experience developing CNC programs using Mastercam.
• Working knowledge of inspection tools and gauges, including calipers, micrometers, thread gauges, pin gauges, height gauges, and radius gauges.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering prints.
• Proficient understanding of GD&T and core manufacturing principles.
• Basic understanding of G-Code, with proficient understanding of G-Code and M-Code programming for CNC machines.
• Strong CAD/CAM interfacing knowledge for program creation and modification.
• Ability to create and utilize standard manufacturing routes and write SMR, 3-axis, and simple 5-axis programs.
• Capability to develop high-speed and 3-axis toolpaths and select appropriate tooling.
• Ability to create setup sheets and verify programs in Vericut.
• Strong understanding of work coordinate systems (WCS) for multi-axis machining.
• Ability to create usable 5-axis toolpaths and program vacuum fixture parts.
• Experience setting up and troubleshooting CNC machines to resolve runtime issues.
• Strong mathematical aptitude to support programming, tooling, and inspection tasks.
• Ability to read gauges and instrumentation accurately for quality verification.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to ask questions and maintain professionalism under stress.
• High School Diploma or GED.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in an aerospace or aircraft machining environment.
• Preferred basic CAD/CAM understanding beyond core requirements.
• Basic Microsoft Office skills, including Word, Excel, and email.
• Basic exposure to Mastercam, with continued growth into advanced programming.
• Associate degree or technical certification in machining, manufacturing, or a related field is preferred.
• Simple tooling design capability to support machining operations.
• Ability to perform simple solid modeling to assist with program development.
• Experience performing process improvement activities in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated professionalism, confidentiality, and effective communication in cross-functional settings.
• Ability to train and mentor less experienced programmers and support team development.

Work Environment

The role operates in a growing defense program within a precision machining and manufacturing environment. You will work closely with machine shop, inspection, engineering, and planning teams, using CNC…