What are the responsibilities and job description for the Multi-Axis CAM Programmer and Process Optimization Specialist position at GTC Machining?
Reports to: Director of Engineering
A day in the life
You start by reviewing a new model for an upcoming product launch, translating it into a robust CNC program. Before lunch, you’ve dialed in speeds and feeds, selected the right cutters, and designed a fast-change fixture to keep cycle times tight. In the afternoon, you run first-article parts to validate the program, collaborate with engineering on capability runs, and coach machinists on a smooth handoff to production. You wrap the day documenting setup sheets, updating tool libraries, and tidying your 6S work area.
Your impact
A day in the life
You start by reviewing a new model for an upcoming product launch, translating it into a robust CNC program. Before lunch, you’ve dialed in speeds and feeds, selected the right cutters, and designed a fast-change fixture to keep cycle times tight. In the afternoon, you run first-article parts to validate the program, collaborate with engineering on capability runs, and coach machinists on a smooth handoff to production. You wrap the day documenting setup sheets, updating tool libraries, and tidying your 6S work area.
Your impact
- Create and refine CNC programs from engineering drawings, 3D models, and part specifications.
- Design fixtures that support fast setups and repeatable, quick-change operations.
- Select tooling with an eye toward tool life, wear characteristics, optimal machining strategies, and part quality.
- Run first-article development parts to verify programs produce conforming results.
- Continuously improve toolpaths, machining processes, and methods to boost quality, efficiency, and throughput.
- Build clear setup documentation and maintain accurate programming records for repeatability.
- Work cross-functionally with engineering and manufacturing engineering to solve process or quality issues.
- Train machinists on new parts, programs, and processes to ensure a seamless production launch.
- Engage with tooling suppliers and technical partners to trial new tools, methods, and technologies.
- Contribute to workforce development by sharing technical know-how and assisting with employee training.
- Explore new programming techniques, tools, and training to elevate team capability.
- Complete required paperwork and production reporting (time, attendance, and inventory tracking).
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment in line with 6S and all safety policies.
- Comply with all safety regulations and best practices; perform other duties as assigned.
- 5 years of CNC programming experience, or 3 years with a technical diploma.
- Skilled with CAM platforms such as Mastercam, GibbsCAM, Fusion 360, or similar.
- Hands-on programming experience with 3-, 4-, and/or 5-axis CNC equipment.
- Deep knowledge of tooling selection, wear behavior, and machining strategies across metals.
- Proven ability to lead programs through first articles, capability runs, and transfer to production.
- Root-cause analysis skills for dimensional, surface finish, and machining challenges, with strong corrective action follow-through.
- Advanced blueprint interpretation with expert-level GD&T; familiarity with inspection methods and applicable military specifications.
- Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and production workflows.
- Experience with Lean and quality systems preferred (ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, AS9100D).
- GD&T
- Troubleshooting
- CNC Programming
- G-Code
- M-Code
- Production Setup Methods
- CNC Mill (3–4 axis VMC)
- CNC Lathe (2–4 axis)
- CNC Swiss Lathe
- CAM Software (Mastercam, GibbsCAM, Autodesk Fusion 360)
- CNC Mill (5 axis VMC)
- CNC Lathe (5 axis)