What are the responsibilities and job description for the Programmer Machinist position at Harken?
TITLE: Programmer Machinist
BASED AT: Harken, Inc., Pewaukee, WI
STATUS: Non-Exempt/Hourly, 1st Shift, Full-Time
Join the Harken Team: Innovating for Over 50 Years
Harken, Inc. is a global leader in innovative solutions for the marine and safety industries. Headquartered in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, with manufacturing facilities in the USA and Italy, we take pride in our world-class engineering, craftsmanship, and dedication to excellence.
Our global footprint spans 48 countries, supported by group offices in exciting locations like Australia, France, Italy, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, the UK, and across the United States—from Rhode Island to Washington.
For over half a century, Harken's Marine Division has set the industry standard for pulley blocks, deck hardware, winches, and hydraulics, serving sailboats ranging from 8 to over 300 feet. Building on this strong foundation, Harken is charting new courses with our Safety and Rescue Division, unlocking opportunities for innovation and growth.
The Opportunity:
Harken is seeking a Programmer Machinist to join our team. This role is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC machining centers, with a primary focus on mills, to manufacture custom precision components. This role works from engineering drawings, CAD models, and customer specifications to develop efficient machining processes, produce high-quality parts, and meet production deadlines. The position requires close collaboration with engineering, quality, and production teams to troubleshoot machining challenges, improve manufacturing processes, and support custom, low-volume, and prototype production while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.
What you will do:
Program, set up, and operate CNC milling machines to manufacture custom and prototype components
Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs using CAM software and machine controls to maximize efficiency and part quality
Interpret blueprints, CAD models, work instructions, and GD&T to determine machining requirements
Select appropriate tooling, cutting parameters, and machining strategies for a variety of materials
Perform machine setups, including fixture installation, tool offsets, and program verification
Monitor machine performance and report any variations from specifications
Recommend tooling arrangements, fixtures, and operation sequences to improve efficiency and quality
Use a variety of precision measuring instruments to inspect and verify parts
Support multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, custom manufacturing environment while meeting production schedules and delivery commitments
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
Follow all company safety procedures and quality standards
Other duties and projects as assigned
What you bring:
Minimum Qualifications:
5 years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment
CAM programming experience and setup skills
High School diploma or GED equivalent
Additional Preferred Qualifications:
Excellent knowledge of machining practices, Mills experience preferred
Experience with MasterCAM
Experience programming 3-axis or 5-axis CNC mills
Custom low run/R&D experience
Experience using precision measuring instruments
Experience reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings
Key Skills for Success include:
Ability to perform mathematical calculations using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work
Effective time management and organizational skills to prioritize multiple jobs
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to machining processes and equipment
Why you will love working at Harken:
What truly sets Harken apart is our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and the unique culture of ownership it fosters. Every team member is empowered to think and act like an owner, driving a workplace culture built on drive, humility, ingenuity, integrity, and ownership. At Harken, you’re not just an employee—you’re a valued stakeholder in our future.
At Harken, our work is guided by five core values:
Drive – Taking initiative, setting ambitious goals, and pursuing excellence
Humility – Welcoming feedback, learning from others, and prioritizing team success
Ingenuity – Solving complex problems with practical, elegant solutions
Integrity – Delivering honest work and upholding the highest standards
Ownership – Taking pride in our products, our people, and our future
Why join Harken:
Employee-owned company (ESOP)
Growing global organization
Modern, clean, and organized manufacturing environment
Opportunity to work with advanced CNC equipment and precision components
Long service machinists who provide mentorship and support your growth
Strong culture of craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement
Internal growth opportunities and ongoing skills development
401(k) that includes a company match
Competitive medical, dental and vision insurance coverage
Employee assistance program
Flexible spending account and health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off after 90-day probationary period
Unpaid excused absences and 9 paid holidays off
Employee referral program
Tuition reimbursement
On-site Gym
Climate controlled work environment
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Submit your resume via email to: jobs@harken.com
Harken is an equal opportunity employer.
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