Job Description

Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Lead Engineer – to provide leadership and technical direction for machine programmers across four manufacturing facilities. This role will drive efficiency, standardize programming practices, and support automation and capital projects. The ideal candidate will bring strong CNC programming expertise, with leadership experience ranging from demonstrated team mentorship to proven multi-site management. Candidates with additional PLC or robotics programming experience are especially encouraged to apply.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following: other duties may be assigned.

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of 4–8 programmers across four sites.
• Establish, maintain, and enforce programming standards, documentation, and best practices.
• Oversee CNC programming activities (SigmaNest experience preferred), ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and safety.
• Support new equipment installations, automation initiatives, and strategic capital projects.
• Partner with engineers and operators to troubleshoot manufacturing and design issues.
• Maintain program version control, optimize toolpaths, and manage post-processors.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, NFPA 79, ISO, and cybersecurity standards.
• Collaborate across engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to align programming solutions with business goals.
• Provide training and mentorship to programmers and operators on new equipment and processes.
• Translate 2D/3D engineering drawings into machine-readable formats for cutting and routing.
• Ensure program accuracy, material efficiency, and machine safety.
• Work closely with engineers to support new designs and prototyping.
• Review and revise programs to improve process speed, accuracy, and material usage.
• Document programming procedures and maintain CNC file libraries.
• Determine best methods for manufacturing products with maximum efficiency.
• Implement safety and quality control measures to ensure a safe and consistent product.

Qualifications to perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• 3+ years of hands-on CNC programming experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Sigma Nest preferred, SheetCam, CAMPlus and CAMProX, a plus.
• Demonstrated experience programming 3-axis and 5-axis machines.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and technical schematics.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and manufacturing best practices.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with excellent interpersonal and collaboration abilities.
• Proven ability to manage shifting deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively across all functional areas.
• Effective problem solver, with ability to utilize analytical techniques to resolve conceptual issues. 
• Able to make a shift in approach to developing creative solutions that will result in technology that can provide a technological edge over competition.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• 5+ years of Manufacturing Engineering experience.
• 5+ years of CNC programming experience.
• Experience with Microsoft office and AutoCAD.
• Experience programming 3-axis and/or 5-axis machines.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Experience in Lean Manufacturing
• Experience with Time Study techniques
• Experience with DFA, FMEA, DOE and Six Sigma tools
• Ability to work well under compressed time constraints
• Project management