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.

J & E PRECISION TOOL LLC

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