What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Programmer position at Gradel Professional Search?
We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to develop reliable machining processes and production methodologies for high-precision components. In this 1st-shift role, you will collaborate with shop floor personnel, engineering teams, and operations leadership to support complex prototype development and full-scale manufacturing across high-tech, regulated industries. You will translate technical requirements into safe, efficient, and repeatable machining workflows.
Key Responsibilities
CNC Programming & Process Optimization:
Generate, test, and optimize multiaxis CNC programs (including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 3 2 multi-axis configurations) using industry-standard CAM software with minimal supervision.
Develop programming strategies for horizontal machining cells and integrated automation systems.
Establish optimal cutting parameters, tool paths, speeds, feeds, and tooling selection.
Perform program verification via software simulation and hands-on, controlled machine prove-outs.
Continuously refine existing programs to maximize throughput, component quality, and cycle-time efficiency.
Manufacturing Engineering Support:
Draft or modify 2D technical drawings and 3D CAD models for manufacturing.
Conceptualize and design practical workholding solutions, fixtures, and specialized tooling.
Review part geometry, tolerances, and design for manufacturability (DFM) prior to release.
Provide hands-on shop-floor support during setup, prove-out, and active production runs to troubleshoot machining issues.
Quality & Process Improvement:
Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles to ensure strict blueprint compliance.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to minimize setup times, reduce scrap, and lower unit production costs.
Assist with root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions for quality or operational deviations.
Standardize and document successful manufacturing methods to ensure consistency.
Documentation & Technical Collaboration:
Create detailed setup sheets, tooling lists, and operational work instructions for shop floor personnel.
Maintain clean revision histories and organized manufacturing file management.
Coordinate with quality assurance and production leadership on process changes and continuous improvements.
Adhere strictly to shop safety guidelines and operational procedures.
Qualifications
Required:
High School Diploma or GED (Technical degree, trade school, or vocational certification preferred).
2 years of professional experience in hands-on CNC programming for precision component manufacturing.
Proven expertise in 3-axis, 4-axis, or 3 2-axis CNC machining center programming with minimal supervision.
Proficiency reading technical blueprints, engineering drawings, and applying GD&T standards.
Strong working knowledge of cutting tool selection, workholding design, and advanced machining parameters.
Strong technical problem-solving capabilities in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Experience:
Hands-on experience with modern CAM platforms (e.g., GibbsCAM or equivalent packages).
Experience programming high-precision multi-axis machining centers (e.g., Japanese/European premium machinery) and modern CNC controls (Fanuc, Siemens, or similar).
Exposure to automated manufacturing cells and horizontal machining centers.
Experience supporting both short-run prototyping and volume production.
Familiarity operating within certified quality management environments (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001).
Work Schedule & Compensation
Shift: Permanent, full-time 1st shift (Day shift).
Compensation: Hourly rate/salary commensurate with experience; overtime available based on production requirements.
Benefits Package: Comprehensive benefits package available, including medical/dental coverage, paid time off (PTO), retirement savings plan with employer matching, disability insurance, and performance incentives.
Gradel Pro Search (GPS) is an Industrial Search and Recruiting Services firm partnering with manufacturing, aerospace & defense, engineered products, chemicals, and industrial organizations to identify and align talent with critical business objectives.
Relationships. Guidance. Success.
We work with Fortune 500 companies, global enterprises, private equity-backed organizations, and growth-oriented manufacturers, navigating hiring across complex operational and technical environments.