CNC Mill Programmer (3-, 4-, and 5-Axis)

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced CNC Mill Programmer to support a high-mix, low-to-medium volume job shop specializing in complex aerospace and defense components. This role is responsible for programming, process development, and technical support for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC milling operations. The ideal candidate has strong Mastercam experience, a deep understanding of machining complex geometries, fixture design concepts, and advanced multi-axis toolpath strategies, and the ability to collaborate closely with machinists, engineers, and quality personnel.

Key Responsibilities

Programming & Process Development

• Create, modify, and optimize CNC milling programs using Mastercam.
• Program complex aerospace and defense components, including multi-surface and tight-tolerance parts.
• Develop setups, tooling strategies, and machining processes for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis milling centers.
• Apply advanced multi-axis toolpath strategies including dynamic milling, high-speed machining (HSM), and tool life optimization.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, workholding, and machining parameters to optimize cycle time, surface finish, and tool life.
• Simulate and verify programs prior to release to production.

Fixture & Process Engineering

• Develop fixture concepts and workholding strategies to support complex and multi-axis machining.
• Collaborate with machinists, engineers, and toolmakers on fixture design and process improvements.
• Evaluate part geometry and recommend efficient machining approaches during planning and quoting stages when required.

Production Support

• Work closely with machinists during setup, prove-out, and first-piece runs.
• Troubleshoot programming and machining issues to maintain production schedules.
• Continuously improve existing programs to reduce cycle times and improve quality.
• Support process improvements and cost-reduction initiatives.

Technical Documentation

• Create setup sheets, tooling lists, and process documentation.
• Maintain revision control of programs and associated documentation.
• Ensure all programs and documentation meet customer and internal requirements.

Quality & Compliance

• Work with Quality to ensure programs meet blueprint, GD&T, and customer requirements.
• Program and support machining of tight-tolerance components, including parts requiring tolerances of less than 0.0005”.
• Machine and support processes involving exotic and difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium, Inconel, and high-strength alloys.
• Support first article inspections (FAI) and process validation activities.
• Maintain awareness of aerospace and defense quality requirements and traceability practices.

Collaboration

• Coordinate with engineering, quality, and purchasing regarding materials, tooling, and process needs.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and process reviews.
• Provide technical input for quoting and manufacturability reviews when required.

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of CNC milling programming experience in a precision machining environment.
• Proficiency with Mastercam for multi-axis milling.
• Experience programming 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC milling machines.
• Demonstrated experience machining complex aerospace or defense components.
• Experience machining tight-tolerance parts (<0.0005”).
• Experience working with exotic materials such as titanium, Inconel, and hardened alloys.
• Strong understanding of machining strategies, cutting tools, and workholding methods.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Preferred

• Experience in a job shop or high-mix manufacturing environment.
• Experience with CAD models and solid modeling software.
• Experience working with ERP systems (Epicor or similar) is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and precision.
• Ability to manage multiple jobs and priorities in a fast-paced job shop environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Work Environment

• Combination of office programming and shop-floor support.
• Regular interaction with machinists, engineers, and quality personnel.
• Exposure to machine shop environment including noise, coolant, and metal chips; appropriate PPE required.

Performance Metrics (Typical)

• Program accuracy and first-run success rate.
• Cycle time improvements and process efficiency.
• On-time release of programs to production.
• Reduction in scrap and rework.
• Fixture effectiveness and setup efficiency.

Note: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. Duties and responsibilities may be adjusted based on operational needs.