What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNC Set Up / Programmer position at Panther Metalflow?
Panther Metalflow
CNC Setup / Programmer
Job DescriptionAbout Us
We are a rapidly growing, innovative manufacturer at the forefront of precision machining and advanced technologies. As our operations scale, we are investing in strong technical roles that bridge Engineering, Production, and Quality. We are seeking a CNC Setup / Programmer to own complex setups, programming, and process optimization across our Swiss CNC operations.
Position Summary
The CNC Setup / Programmer is a senior individual contributor responsible for full Swiss CNC setups and programming, supporting both new and existing production work. This role owns setups from scratch, advanced changeovers, machine-level and offline CAM programming, and process optimization. The position works closely with Quality on first-article validation and with Engineering on new product introduction (NPI), tooling strategy, and cost optimization. This role does not run production — it focuses on getting jobs running correctly, repeatably, and profitably.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform full Swiss CNC setups from scratch, including tooling, offsets, prove-outs, and first-run validation
- Execute advanced changeovers on existing parts to minimize downtime and variation
- Program Swiss CNC machines both at the control and using offline CAM software
- Collaborate with Quality Technicians to complete and validate first articles
- Perform basic machine troubleshooting related to setup, alignment, tooling, and minor mechanical issues prior to escalation
- Develop and maintain setup sheets, tooling lists, and CNC program documentation
- Optimize cycle times, tool life, and processes to reduce scrap, improve margins, and increase throughput
- Participate early in new product introduction (NPI), providing DFM input, tooling strategy, and cycle time estimates
- Ensure programs, setups, and documentation align with ISO/QMS requirements
- Maintain program version control and ensure repeatability across machines
- Manage relationships with tooling vendors
- Assist with in-process drawings
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Strong experience in Swiss CNC setup and programming in a production manufacturing environment
- Proficiency with Swiss CNC programming both at the machine and with offline CAM software
- Experience performing full setups from scratch and complex changeovers
- Solid understanding of tooling, fixturing, offsets, and prove-out processes
- Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Production
- Strong understanding of how setup and programming decisions impact cost, margin, and throughput
- Comfortable working as a senior individual contributor without direct reports
- PLEX software knowledge desirable
- High school diploma or GED required
Compensation & Growth
- Competitive hourly compensation based on experience, pay range $30.00 - $35.00/hour
- Overtime eligible
- Opportunity to grow into senior technical specialist or advanced manufacturing roles
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Accident, Hospital, and Critical Illness Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Spending Account
- LegalShield and LifeLock
- Pet Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Holiday Savings Account
- 529 College Savings Account
Why Join Us?
- Play a critical technical role with real ownership over setups, programming, and process performance
- Work closely with Engineering and Quality to shape how parts are launched and produced
- Join a fast-growing manufacturer that values craftsmanship, precision, and continuous improvement
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Profit sharing
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Walled Lake, MI 48390 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $30 - $35