CNC New Product Introduction (NPI) Process Technician

Role Snapshot

When a new design is greenlit, you’re the one who turns it into reality. You translate prints into CNC toolpaths, set up the machines, cut the first piece, validate everything with Quality, and coach operators so production runs smoothly. You’ll be embedded with Production, collaborate with ES&H, and partner with Engineering to ensure each new product is programmed, tested, documented, and ready for a seamless handoff to the floor.

A day in the life

• Create CNC programs for brand-new parts and engineering changes using CAD/CAM; iterate until the cycle is accurate, safe, and efficient.
• Set up equipment, run first-article parts, and verify tooling, fixtures, work instructions, and dimensional requirements.
• Coordinate test and development runs, including identifying R&D material needs and related funding requirements.
• Stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Production during launches and low-volume periods to introduce new products and production aids.
• Troubleshoot programming, tooling, setup, and machining issues—hands-on—until root cause is eliminated.
• Train operators in machine operation, program usage, setup steps, and foundational machining concepts.
• Partner across Production, Quality, ES&H, and Engineering to refine processes and accelerate readiness for full-rate manufacturing.
• Run time studies: observe cycles, capture data, and establish standard work and standard cycle times.
• Continuously improve cycle time, quality, tooling performance, productivity, and machine utilization.
• Implement and validate process changes and new manufacturing methods.
• Maintain clear, current documentation for programs, setups, processes, routers, and production records.
• Communicate status, risks, and needs proactively with Production, Quality, and other stakeholders.

What you bring

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Technical training or an associate degree in machining, manufacturing technology, engineering technology, or a related field (preferred). Equivalent hands-on experience in machining, CNC programming, setup, and manufacturing may substitute for formal education.
• Proven CNC programming and setup experience with first-article inspection.
• Solid grasp of machining fundamentals, cutting tools, feeds/speeds, and machine operations.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing specs.
• Mechanical aptitude and strong troubleshooting capability.
• Experience teaching operators and communicating technical information clearly.
• Comfort with manufacturing/engineering software and core computer skills; Microsoft Office proficiency.
• Background developing and proving out CNC programs for new products (mills, lathes, and other automated equipment).
• CAD/CAM proficiency; FeatureCam familiarity is a plus.
• Experience running time studies and defining standard work/standard cycle times.
• Exposure to Lean/continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of machine designs/applications and experience creating/updating routers.

Proficiencies and tools

• Equipment and process troubleshooting.
• CNC tooling selection and optimization.
• CNC programming, setup, and changeovers for production runs.
• CAM software (e.g., FeatureCam).

HYCO Alabama is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.