CNC Programmer

The CNC Programmer (Turning & Grinding Focus) is a highly technical manufacturing role responsible for developing and executing advanced machining processes with a primary focus on horizontal turning mills, mill-turn platforms, and precision grinding operations, while supporting broader CNC machining activities as required. 

This role owns the full machining workflow including process development, fixture design, CNC programming, machine setup support, prove-out, inspection collaboration, and production optimization. The CNC Programmer partners closely with manufacturing engineering, design engineering, and shop operations teams to develop robust, repeatable, and scalable machining strategies for high-performance aerospace, automotive, defense, and energy components. 

Operating in a fast-paced hardware environment, this individual will lead the development of advanced machining solutions for complex rotational hardware and precision-critical components, supporting both prototype development and high-rate production. This role combines deep CAM expertise, strong shop-floor execution, and hands-on manufacturing problem solving.

• Develop and optimize CNC programs using CAM software (Siemens NX preferred) for:  

• Horizontal turning mills  

• Multi-axis mill-turn platforms  

• 5-axis grinding systems  

• Standard vertical and horizontal machining centers as needed  

• Program, verify, simulate, and support complex machining operations including:  

• Multi-axis turning  

• Simultaneous 5-axis machining  

• Cylindrical and profile grinding  

• Mill-turn operations  

• Support first article development through stable production release.  

• Create advanced machining strategies for tight-tolerance rotational components and complex geometries.  

• Develop dynamic work offset strategies, probing routines, and multi-operation setup methodologies. 

• Analyze new components to determine machining approach, tooling strategy, workholding concepts, and process flow.  

• Design and refine robust machining processes to improve: Cycle time, Surface finish, Dimensional capability, Tool life, Repeatability  

• Develop grinding strategies for precision-critical surfaces, diameters, profiles, and datum structures.  

• Provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback to engineering teams during product development. 

• Design and develop machining fixtures, grinding workholding, soft jaws, and support tooling using CAD (NX preferred).  

• Support fabrication, prove-out, and validation of fixtures and setup concepts.  

• Collaborate with machinists and operators during setup, prove-out, and production troubleshooting.  

• Provide direct shop-floor support during first article builds and process launches. 

• Interpret engineering drawings and apply GD&T principles to machining and inspection strategies.  

• Collaborate with metrology and quality teams to validate inspection approaches for complex machined hardware.  

• Utilize metrology equipment and inspection feedback to refine machining processes and improve capability.  

• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions for machining-related non-conformances. 

• Support machining operations across prototype, low-rate, and production environments. 

• Maintain strict adherence to MES, process documentation, revision control, and manufacturing standards.  

• Ensure compliance with Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements and machine shop best practices.  

• Support broader machining and shop activities as production priorities require. 

• Extensive CNC programming experience with a strong focus on:  

• Horizontal turning mills  

• Mill-turn machining  

• Multi-axis turning systems  

• Strong CAM programming capability (Siemens NX preferred).  

• Strong understanding of machining dynamics, tooling, materials, and process optimization.  

• Experience with Siemens and/or Heidenhain controllers preferred.  

• Proficiency in CAD modeling and fixture/workholding design.  

• Demonstrated ability to develop machining strategies for first article and production hardware.  

• Strong understanding of GD&T and precision inspection methodologies.  

• Hands-on understanding of machine setup, operation, and prove-out activities.   

• Experience machining aerospace-grade materials including aluminum, steels, titanium, stainless steels, and nickel-based alloys. 

• Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls 

• Proficiency with Siemens NX CAD/CAM. 

• Experience with horizontal turning centers, mill-turn systems, multi-axis, & Precision grinding operations    

• Experience programming or supporting precision grinding equipment (5-axis grinding preferred). 

• Familiarity with palletized machining systems and automated manufacturing environments. 

• Experience machining large-format or high-precision rotational components. 

• Experience with additive manufacturing and hybrid additive-subtractive workflows. 

• Strong understanding of aerospace, automotive, defense, or turbine/energy hardware manufacturing. 

• Experience supporting high-rate production and production ramp environments. 

• Familiarity with in-process probing, automation, and advanced setup verification techniques. 

• This role operates in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment where priorities can shift rapidly based on engineering changes, supply chain constraints, and program milestones. The environment demands tight cross-functional collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, quality, logistics, and program teams to ensure daily execution aligns with long-term build plans.
   
• Success in this environment requires hands-on engagement on the shop floor, strong systems knowledge, and the ability to anticipate and resolve scheduling risks before they impact key deliverables.
   
• The culture emphasizes proactive communication, data-driven decision making, and continuous improvement to meet aggressive program timelines while maintaining high standards for quality, safety, and efficiency. 

• An on-site skills demonstration (< 60mins) is required as part of the hiring process to evaluate technical proficiency and practical machining abilities.