What are the responsibilities and job description for the EDM Programmer (Aerospace & Defense) position at Arena Family of Companies?
Join a leading precision manufacturing organization with a global footprint and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality solutions to aerospace, defense, medical device, and industrial customers. The company is recognized for technical expertise, operational discipline, and a commitment to precision, traceability, and first-pass quality.
Operating as a vertically integrated manufacturer, the organization brings advanced CNC machining, mold making, wire and sinker EDM, robotic welding, sheet metal fabrication, additive manufacturing, and precision assembly together under one roof. This integrated model enables tighter process control, reduced lead times, and consistent execution across complex, high-mix, low-volume production programs.
With 18 manufacturing sites worldwide, the company supports Tier 1 and Tier 2 customers across regulated industries, delivering mission-critical components that require strict documentation, compliance, and quality assurance.
Why This Role?
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Competitive salary, medical, dental, vision, 401(k) on day one with company match, and performance-based bonuses
- Profit Sharing: Based on company performance
- Tuition Reimbursement: Supports continued education, professional certifications, and development
- Generous PTO: Paid holidays, vacation, and personal days to support work-life balance
- Flexible Hours: Flexibility to accommodate training, team needs, and personal commitments
- One-Stop Manufacturing Model: Vertically integrated operations under one roof, reducing handoffs and improving speed, quality, and accountability
- Long-Term Team Members: Multiple employees with fifteen to twenty years of service across key departments
- Workforce Stability: Low turnover driven by consistent workload, technical engagement, and clear expectations
- Customer Base: Supports Tier 1 and Tier 2 customers across aerospace, defense, medical device, and industrial manufacturing
- Program Sensitivity: Works on mission-critical and highly regulated programs requiring discretion, traceability, and strict quality controls
- Sustained Growth: Consistent revenue and production growth driven by new contract wins and expanding customer demand
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Work with CNC machining, 3D printing, and advanced manufacturing tools
- Global Reach & Stable Manufacture: Long-standing precision machining operation with 18 manufacturing sites worldwide and consistent demand from regulated industries
- Trusted Aerospace, Defense & Medical Supplier: Supports mission-critical programs with strict quality, documentation, and compliance requirements
- High-Mix, Low-Volume Environment: Exposure to complex, tight-tolerance parts that reward technical problem-solving, innovation, and ownership
What You’ll Do:
- Program, set up, and operate Plunger EDM machines to produce precision tooling and components.
- Follow manufacturing routers and collaborate with Manufacturing Engineers to implement changes.
- Maximize machine utilization, including unattended operation time.
- Perform inspections, verify dimensions using precision instruments, and ensure first-time quality.
- Record and report deviations, errors, or out-of-tolerance issues to Manufacturing Engineers/Job Leader.
- Maintain tool inventory, assist with general maintenance, and support clean, safe work areas.
- Participate in training, mentoring, and cross-functional planning when required.
- Travel and mandatory overtime as needed to meet production goals.
What You Bring:
- Certification, degree, or equivalent experience in a mold manufacturing or precision machining environment.
- Hands-on experience programming and operating CNC machines, preferably Plunger EDM.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently under pressure.
- Knowledge of inspection processes, precision measuring tools, and first-article verification.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, leadership, and time management skills.
- Ability to prioritize tasks, maintain schedule adherence, and support continuous improvement.
- Physical capability to perform standard manufacturing duties safely, including lifting, standing, and moving within the workspace.
Salary : $35 - $45