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CNC Programmer (1st shift)

Woodward, Inc.
Fort Collins, CO Full Time
POSTED ON 4/26/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/21/2026
Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.

We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.

Woodward supports our members’ wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

  • Estimated hourly base pay: Level 2: $31.25 (minimum) - $40.38 (midpoint) - $50.00 (maximum). Level 3: Level 2: $37.02 (minimum) - $48.08 (midpoint) - $59.13 (maximum). Plus, overtime.

All Levels are eligible for the benefits below:

  • Long-term incentive compensation in the form of equity
  • All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) match (4.5%)
  • Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)
  • Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members
  • 12 paid holidays, including floating holidays
  • Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
  • Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave.
  • Paid parental leave
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits
  • Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life
  • Member referral bonus
  • Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending
  • Voluntary benefits, including:
    • Home / Auto Insurance discounts
    • Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave
Are you ready to make your mark?

If you’re a skilled CNC Programmer, we have an exciting opportunity for you! In this role, you’ll join a large, diverse machine shop with high-mix, low-volume production rates, focusing on programming multi-axis CNC machines for operators to use and producing precision components.

This is not a CNC Machinist role. We are seeking experienced professionals whose primary responsibility is programming CNC machines that others will operate.

  • This is a 1st shift position, Monday to Friday.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Create and modify CNC programs using CAM software to produce precision components.
  • Edit existing programs to improve efficiency in cycle time and tool life.
  • Observe, troubleshoot, and support machine first-runs to ensure program quality and robustness.
  • Support design reviews to ensure part drawings and models reflect part manufacturability during development.
  • Make recommendations to improve part manufacturability.
  • Research and select proper CNC cutting tools based on materials, surface finish requirements, and tolerances.
  • Create and maintain cutting tool packages.
  • Participate in and provide recommendations for tool/fixture designs and work holding solutions.

Key Skills - Level 2

  • G-Code Programming: Expert level creation and refinement of CNC programs for milling and turning operations.
  • CAM Software Proficiency: Skilled in generating and editing toolpaths using Esprit Legacy Series 20/Edge, Mastercam, Siemens NX, or equivalent.
  • CNC Machine Setup: Proficient in selecting tooling, calibrating offsets, and establishing work holding for precision runs.
  • GD&T Interpretation: Accurate reading and application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing from technical drawings.
  • Toolpath Optimization: Designing efficient, collision free tool paths to reduce cycle times and enhance surface finishes.
  • Machining Troubleshooting: Diagnosing programming errors, tool wear, and machine faults to restore optimal performance.
  • Process Documentation: Developing detailed setup sheets, operation protocols, and parameter logs for consistent production.
  • CAD Model Analysis: Examining 3D designs for manufacturability issues, clearances, and necessary modifications.
  • Material Property Knowledge: Applying material specific cutting parameters based on machinability and thermal properties.
  • Cross Functional Communication: Explaining complex technical dependencies and coordinating with engineering and operations teams.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with machinists, engineers, and quality teams.

Key Skills - Level 3

  • CNC Programming: Skilled in developing and refining G-Code and M-Code for complex multi-axis machining operations.
  • CAD/CAM Software: Expert in utilizing CAD/CAM platforms (e.g., Esprit Legacy Series 20/Edge; Mastercam, Siemens NX) to generate efficient toolpaths from 3D models.
  • Machine Setup: Experienced in planning and executing precise machine setups, including tool selection, fixturing, and calibration.
  • Toolpath Optimization: Adept at analyzing and optimizing machining sequences to minimize cycle time and material waste.
  • Material Science: In-depth understanding of material properties and their effects on cutting parameters and tool wear.
  • Process Troubleshooting: Proficient in diagnosing and resolving machining issues through data driven parameter adjustments.
  • Quality Assurance: Skilled in applying GD&T principles and conducting inspections with CM Ms and precision measuring tools.
  • Data Analysis: Capable of interpreting machining and production data to identify trends and drive continuous improvements.
  • Technical Leadership: Experienced in mentoring junior programmers, providing subject matter guidance, and coordinating team efforts.
  • Documentation Standards: Proficient in creating and maintaining detailed machining documentation, including setup sheets and changing logs.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with machinists, engineers, and quality teams.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with advanced verification tools and simulation software.
  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

Physical & Work Environment

  • Ability to work in a shop environment with exposure to machining equipment.
  • Occasional lifting of tooling and components up to 50 lbs.

Application window is anticipated to close 30 days from original posting date.

This information is provided in compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and is the company’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation range and benefits offered for this position. The compensation offered to the successful applicant may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education, location, and other job-related reasons.

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).   All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).

Woodward is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local laws.

Salary : $31

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