CNC Programmer
About this Opportunity
We are seeking a CNC Programmer to join our dynamic engineering team. The CNC Programmer is responsible for programming, proving out, and supporting production of CNC machined components. This role independently develops programs for 2-axis turning and 3-axis milling operations, creates setups, selects tooling and fixturing, and ensures programs are production-ready before release to the shop floor. The CNC Programmer owns the process from programming through operator handoff, troubleshoots manufacturing issues, supports continuous improvement efforts, and helps develop operators and less experienced programmers through training and knowledge sharing. Success in this role requires strong technical fundamentals, attention to detail, accountability, and the ability to deliver accurate, reliable results with minimal supervision.
What You'll Do
- You'll develop complete, production-ready CNC programs in Hypermill and Esprit for 2-axis turning and 3-axis milling with full independence, while steadily expanding into 3+1 and introductory 4-axis work.
- Tooling selection, cutting strategy, and work-holding are yours to determine — drawing on experience and good judgment, with input sought when it matters.
- You'll produce detailed, accurate setup documentation in ProShop ERP — tooling lists, work-holding instructions, program references, and run notes — and govern the completeness and quality of your own work before it reaches the floor.
- You'll lead dimensional verification during prove-outs, implement adjustments independently, and document all changes with clear rationale.
- When programming or quality issues arise within your scope, you'll own resolution — implementing fixes, verifying effectiveness, and applying lessons learned.
- You'll train machine operators on programs and setups you've developed, covering operation, process execution, tooling use, and the intent behind each step.
- You'll also provide helpful input to colleagues on techniques, tooling decisions, and quality standards.
You'll identify process gaps and inefficiencies, implement improvements within your authority, and escalate systemic issues with proposed solutions. - You'll communicate clearly and adapt your style across operators, engineers, and supervisors — keeping all stakeholders accurately informed on program status and production readiness.
- Support other projects as needed.
What We’re Looking For
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Experience and Education
- High School Diploma with at least 6 years of relevant CNC programming experience; or associate's degree in manufacturing, Machining Technology, CNC Programming, or a related field with at least 4 years of relevant experience.
- Demonstrated proficiency programming 2-axis turning and 3-axis milling in Hypermill, Esprit, or a comparable CAM platform, including machine prove-outs and setup documentation.
- Hands-on experience with Haas, Okuma, and/or Heidenhain CNC controllers preferred.
- Experience with ProShop ERP or a comparable production management system is a plus.
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Skills and Abilities
- Proven ability to develop complete, production-ready CNC programs for 2-axis turning and 3-axis milling independently.
- Solid understanding of tooling selection, cutting strategy development, and work-holding across a variety of component geometries.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T callouts and apply them to programming and inspection decisions.
- Demonstrated experience identifying and resolving programming and quality issues through structured root-cause thinking and permanent corrective action.
- Ability to coach Programmer I colleagues and train machine operators through direct instruction and clear process communication.
- Strong documentation and communication skills; adaptable to operators, engineers, and supervisors alike.
- Track record of sound judgment and consistent, reliable delivery.
- Committed to continuous technical growth — actively pursues expanded programming capability.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role.
- Work regularly at a computer workstation for CNC programming, ERP documentation, and technical communication.
- Stand, walk, and move throughout the facility during prove-outs, setup verification, and floor support.
- Bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to inspect equipment, tooling, and machined components.
- Occasionally lift and carry materials, tooling, and raw stock up to 50 lbs; team lifts required for heavier loads.
- Wear required PPE at all times on the shop floor, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed footwear.
- Use precision metrology instruments including calipers, micrometers, and indicators.
- Hold a valid driver's license for occasional logistics tasks.
