CNC Manufacturing Process Programmer - 3/4‑Axis Mills & HMC

Build What Matters at Space Machine & Engineering Corp. (St. Petersburg, FL)

Picture this: a critical aerospace part hits your bench. The print is tight, the geometry complex, and the delivery window firm. You analyze the model, craft a smart fixturing plan, simulate in Mastercam, and dial in a toolpath that balances speed and stability. On the floor, your program runs clean—first-piece passes, FAI closes, and production flows. If solving challenges like this excites you, you’ll thrive here.

Your Mission

• Own CNC programming for precision components—develop, prove out, and maintain production-ready programs.
• Read/interpret drawings, travelers, specifications, and GD&T to ensure dimensional compliance.
• Select tooling, workholding, and parameters; optimize feeds/speeds and setups for throughput and quality.
• Post to appropriate controls; manage controlled file storage and revisions.
• Account for plating/finishing impacts on dimensions.
• Perform Mastercam simulation and verification to prevent collisions and travel-limit issues.
• Support first-piece, in-process, and final inspection; lead AS9100 FAI support and resolve nonconformances.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, setup, and program issues; implement corrective actions.
• Create and maintain detailed setup sheets, tool lists, fixture requirements, parameters, and revision history.
• Collaborate across Engineering, Quality, and Production to improve manufacturability, repeatability, and efficiency.
• Continuously improve: setup reduction, cycle-time optimization, scrap reduction, first-pass yield, machine utilization.

Role Structure

• Reports to: Machine Shop Supervisor
• Schedule: Flexible; extended hours as needed
• Supervisory responsibilities: None

Qualifications

• Deep fluency in blueprint reading, GD&T, and practical shop math.
• Advanced CNC machining knowledge: tooling, workholding, feeds/speeds, best practices.
• Proficiency with Mastercam is required; working G/M-code knowledge.
• Competence with precision measurement tools and inspection techniques.
• Independent problem-solver with exceptional attention to detail and process discipline.
• Organized, time-efficient, and effective communicator across Production, Engineering, Quality, and management.
• Must meet applicable U.S. person requirements associated with controlled work and customer contracts.
• Capable of programming from 2D drawings and 3D solid models/STEP files.
• Experienced with CAM simulation, toolpath verification, collision avoidance, and travel-limit awareness.
• Skilled at generating comprehensive setup documentation and defining tooling/fixture strategies.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training preferred.
• 5 years of CNC programming in precision manufacturing; aerospace/defense experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated Mastercam programming experience required.
• CNC mill programming/support required; CNC lathe and Wire EDM experience preferred.
• Experience in AS9100 or other regulated precision environments preferred.

Performance Metrics

• Meet production and productivity objectives; support reporting deadlines.
• Maintain quality standards with strong first-pass yield.
• Deliver safe, efficient, repeatable, production-ready programs and processes.
• Ensure accurate program control and manufacturing documentation.

Technical Stack

• GD&T, blueprint interpretation; DFM
• Mastercam CAD/CAM; CNC programming and G/M-code
• Tooling/workholding; machine setup, changeover, geometry, alignment
• Advanced inspection, gauging, and SPC
• AS9100 quality systems; FAI support
• ITAR/export-controlled manufacturing awareness
• 3D solid-model and STEP-file programming; simulation and verification
• Industrial/manufacturing engineering fundamentals; file management

Equipment & Software

• Haas CNC Mills (3-/4-axis VMCs) and Haas EC-400 HMC
• Haas CNC Lathes
• Mastercam CAD/CAM
• Precision measurement/inspection equipment
• Wire EDM (as applicable)

Physical Requirements

• Occasional lifting/moving up to 50 lbs.
• Extended standing, walking, and reaching in a shop environment.
• Visual acuity (including depth and peripheral), hearing, and coordination for safe equipment operation.

Work Setting

• Precision manufacturing and machine-shop environment.
• Potential exposure to moving machinery, fluids, fumes, and airborne particles.
• Moderate noise levels; PPE required as designated.

Compensation & Benefits

• 401(k) eligibility
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Paid time off

**EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Space Machine & Engineering Corp. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other classification protected by applicable law.

Responsibilities may be refined over time to reflect continuous improvement and evolving customer needs.