CNC Programmer (Level I, II, or III)

Location: Matthews, NC

Department: Engineering

Reports To: Engineering Manager

Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role

Are you ready to build high-performing systems and craft flight-critical hardware that directly impacts aerospace, defense, and space missions

? We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer (Level I, II, or III, commensurate with experience) to join our Engineering team

.

In this role, you will develop, validate, and optimize advanced CNC programs for complex, tight-tolerance components utilizing cutting-edge simultaneous 5-axis machining technologies

. Working with advanced tools such as Mastercam, SolidWorks, and Vericut, you will analyze 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and exotic material specifications to create efficient, repeatable, and cost-effective manufacturing processes

.

You will collaborate closely with Purchasing, Operations, and Quality to design tooling strategies, establish setup documentation, develop process plans, and provide hands-on technical support to keep machines producing conforming parts

.

Why Join Us?

At our core, we believe that investing in our people is the foundation of our success, which is why we offer clear pathways for career advancement alongside a comprehensive, competitive rewards package. From day one, team members enjoy a robust range of health and life benefits designed to support total wellness and financial peace of mind, backed by a generous, competitive PTO policy that ensures you have the work-life balance needed to recharge. We actively empower our employees to elevate their craft and broaden their technical expertise through full certification reimbursement (including Mastercam, SolidWorks, and GD&T certifications), giving you the direct backing and tools needed to continuously grow your skills, gain industry credentials, and advance your long-term career with us

.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• CNC Programming & Process Design:

  • Perform complex CNC programming in Mastercam for horizontal/vertical mills and multi-axis lathes, machining high-temp exotic alloys (Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy, Titanium, Stainless Steel, Aluminum).

  • Analyze component geometry and dimensions to establish optimal toolpath strategies and cycle times for aircraft and space engine hardware.

  • Simulate, verify, and collision-check toolpaths using Vericut prior to shop floor release.

  • Establish and maintain manufacturing processes by reviewing blueprints, testing methods, tooling, and equipment capabilities.

• Tooling & Fixturing Development:

  • Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to design custom work-holding, fixtures, and specialized tooling to meet inspection specifications and support production schedules.

  • Partner with external vendors to leverage advanced cutting tools, coatings, and automation solutions to drive process improvement and reduce cycle times.

  • Manage tooling workflows, including evaluating condition, resharpening, and maintaining vending inventory.

• Shop Floor & Technical Support:

  • Provide hands-on technical support to shop floor operators by troubleshooting machining issues, adjusting programs, and maintaining tight tolerances.

  • Create and maintain comprehensive setup sheets, tool lists, engineering checklists, and program revision histories.

• Continuous Improvement & Operational Leadership:

  • Support continuous improvement (CI) initiatives, root cause analyses, and corrective actions using standard tools (5-Why, Fishbone, Pareto, Scatter Diagrams).

  • Serve as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) and liaison across Quality, Management, and Operations to facilitate efficient workflow communication (dependent on experience level).

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

• Technical Expertise: Advanced to expert knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5, datum structure reviews, and fixture design principles.

• Software Proficiency: Highly proficient in Mastercam, SolidWorks, Vericut, and Microsoft Office.

• Problem Solving & Quality: Intermediate to advanced understanding of Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and Corrective Action Reporting (CAR) methodologies.

• Communication: Strong technical writing, analytical thinking, and interpersonal skills to collaborate across cross-functional teams and external vendors.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline preferred; equivalent combinations of education, formal technical training, certifications, and hands-on CNC programming/machining experience will be fully considered.

• Experience: 3 to 8+ years of multi-axis CNC programming experience; simultaneous 5-axis programming experience is highly preferred.

• CAD/CAM: Demonstrated proficiency in Mastercam and SolidWorks.

• GD&T: Strong foundational GD&T skills (ASME Y14.5 - 2018 certification preferred, or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire).

• Hands-on Machining: Direct experience with 5-axis CNC setup and operational procedures.

Preferred:

• Experience operating within an AS9100 / ISO 9001 aerospace manufacturing environment.

• Experience programming/operating DMG Mori machine tools with Siemens and/or Fanuc controllers.

• Industry certifications:

  • Mastercam Certifications: Mill 2D, Mill 3D, Lathe, 4-Axis, or Multi-Axis / Advanced Lathe.

  • SolidWorks Certifications: CSWA or CSWP.

  • GD&T Certifications: ASME Y14.5 Advanced Level.

  • Six Sigma: Yellow Belt (CSSYB) or higher.

• Vericut verification software experience.