CNC Programming Engineer

The CNC Programming Engineer develops and maintains CNC programs for 2, 2.5, 3, and 5-axis machining centers, turret punch presses, and automated cutting systems—approximately 75–80% of the role. The remaining effort supports manufacturing engineering activities including fixture design, process improvement, and sustaining documentation in a regulated medical device environment.Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.  (Other duties may be assigned.)

CNC Programming (75–80%)

• Develop, write, prove out, and maintain CNC programs for 2, 2.5, 3, and 5-axis machining centers using Mastercam or equivalent CAM software.
• Create toolpaths for complex geometries—including contoured and multi-feature parts—optimized for cycle time, tool life, and surface finish.
• Develop and manage part indexing strategies between as-molded and final machined configurations, ensuring consistent datum control and feature repeatability across all setups.
• Design and specify workholding fixtures, tombstones, and custom jigs to enable efficient multi-axis setups and repeatable part location.
• Interpret engineering drawings using GD&T principles (ASME Y14.5) and translate tolerances into CNC programming strategies and inspection criteria.
• Perform machine setups, tool offsets, and prove-out cuts; refine programs based on in-process inspection results to meet dimensional requirements.
• Maintain a CNC program library, tool library, and setup documentation for all active part numbers.
• Work closely with machining operators to troubleshoot program issues, tool breakage, and dimensional nonconformances.
• Evaluate and recommend cutting tools, toolholders, and fixturing solutions to improve performance and reduce manufacturing cost.

Additional Machine Programming

• Program turret punch press machines using Striker Systems CAD/CAM software or equivalent, including tooling selection, hit sequencing, and sheet nesting.
• Develop programs for Eastman fabric and material cutting systems, including pattern nesting and automated cut-plan generation.
• Maintain programs, tooling data, and setup documentation for all secondary machine types in active production use.

Manufacturing Engineering Support (20–25%)

• Plan, coordinate, and design tooling, fixtures, and auxiliary equipment to support the introduction of new and revised products.
• Investigate new materials and manufacturing techniques; evaluate process changes for quality and efficiency impact.
• Support cross-functional teams in continuous improvement initiatives, applying Lean and Six Sigma methods where applicable.
• Generate and maintain engineering documentation, including work instructions, DHF documents, and process change records.
• Work with quality engineering to ensure regulatory compliance and support corrective and preventive action activities.
• Serve as a technical resource for process and product improvements as a member of the Manufacturing Engineering team.

Job Specifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Proficient with Mastercam or equivalent CAM software; SolidWorks or equivalent CAD system experience required (5 years preferred).
• Experience programming turret punch presses (Striker Systems preferred) and automated cutting systems such as Eastman fabric/material cutters.
• Experience machining composite parts (e.g., carbon fiber, fiberglass, or reinforced polymers) as raw stock for secondary operations, with an understanding of how material properties—fiber orientation, delamination risk, abrasiveness—affect tooling selection, feeds, speeds, and fixturing strategies.
• Attention to detail and a methodical approach to program verification and in-process inspection.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical information across engineering and production teams.
• Highly organized with a strong ability to self-manage time and competing priorities.

Education and/or Experience

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, or a related field; or 5 years of hands-on CNC programming experience with demonstrated multi-axis capability is required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered. Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (medical device, aerospace, or similar) is preferred.

Physical Demands necessary to perform this job

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to lift, stoop, kneel, walk, and have fine motor coordination sufficient to manipulate small objects and tooling. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis and occasionally carry that weight for short distances.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and CNC machining equipment. The employee may also be exposed to cutting fluids, coolants, and other process chemicals; appropriate PPE is required. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud during machining operations.