What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal CNC Programmer/Master Machinist position at Synectics Inc.?
Key Responsibilities
- Develop end-to-end machining strategies for prototype and low-volume R&D parts from CAD → CAM → first article.
- Create advanced CAM programs and probing routines to optimize machine use.
- Select tooling, feeds/speeds, work-holding, and probing strategies; optimize for risk, tool life, cycle time, and part stability.
- Collaborate with engineering and quality during early part development.
- Iterate machining strategies using real cutting data and in-process feedback.
- Support first-article success on tight-tolerance, high-value parts.
- Design and specify custom fixtures and work-holding for large VTL components.
- Set up and prove CNC programs; troubleshoot chatter, distortion, thermal growth, and alignment issues in real time.
- Develop setup sheets, tool lists, and standardized process documentation.
- Establish programming standards, best practices, and support configuration control.
- Drive continuous process improvements to reduce risk, scrap, and iteration time.
- 10 years hands-on manufacturing, 5 years CNC programming.
- Experience with VTL or large, complex, flight-critical components.
- Skilled with nickel-based alloys (Inconel, Monel), copper, aluminum, titanium.
- Strong blueprint reading, GD&T, fixture design, and work-holding skills.
- Setup sheet and tool list creation experience.
- Excellent communication and project management; comfortable on the shop floor.
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field.
- Experience with short-run, prototype, or non-production machining.
- Proactive in quality improvements with process enhancement track record.
- Knowledge of CMM inspection.
- Experience with cranes, forklifts, or heavy lifting equipment.
- Experience transitioning parts from prototype to production.