CNC Programmer – Aerospace

Salary: $84,000–$124,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications

Job Type: Full-Time

Industry: Aerospace / Precision Manufacturing

Experience: 5+ years of CNC programming

Position Summary

An established precision manufacturing company serving the aerospace and defense industries is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to develop, optimize, and support machining programs for complex, high-precision components.

This position works closely with Manufacturing Engineering and production teams to develop CNC programs, establish machining processes, select tooling, and improve manufacturing efficiency using advanced CAD/CAM technology.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in CNC programming, precision machining, and shop-floor manufacturing , with the ability to develop efficient machining strategies, troubleshoot programming challenges, and support continuous process improvement.

Experience with multi-axis machining and complex part geometries is particularly valuable.

Who Would Be a Great Fit for This Role?

This opportunity is particularly well suited for:

• Experienced CNC Programmers: Professionals with at least five years of CNC programming experience who can independently develop, modify, and optimize machining programs.
• Aerospace CNC Programmers: Candidates experienced in machining complex aerospace components requiring high precision, repeatability, and strict quality standards.
• CAD/CAM Programmers: Individuals proficient in CNC programming software who understand machining strategies, tooling selection, and manufacturing process development.
• CNC Machinists Who Advanced into Programming: Professionals with a strong shop-floor background who have transitioned into programming and understand the practical challenges of machining complex components.
• Manufacturing Process Specialists: Technically skilled professionals experienced in improving machining processes, reducing cycle times, and troubleshooting manufacturing issues.

We are particularly interested in candidates who combine strong programming capabilities with practical machining knowledge.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for complex precision-machined components.
• Create machining programs and toolpaths using CAD/CAM software.
• Review engineering drawings, CAD models, blueprints, and technical specifications to determine machining requirements.
• Develop efficient machining strategies, cutting sequences, and manufacturing processes.
• Calculate machining dimensions, angles, radii, and other geometric requirements.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, workholding solutions, speeds, feeds, and machining parameters.
• Develop detailed setup sheets, tooling instructions, and manufacturing process documentation.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering and production teams to establish efficient, repeatable machining processes.
• Support CNC program prove-outs, machine setups, and troubleshooting activities.
• Assist with machine operation during program testing and validation when required.
• Analyze and revise CNC programs to eliminate errors, improve machining performance, and reduce cycle times.
• Incorporate new tooling technologies and machining methods to improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Utilize CNC simulation and verification software to identify potential machining concerns.
• Investigate programming-related nonconformances and support corrective action implementation.
• Work with Quality and Manufacturing teams to reduce scrap, improve dimensional accuracy, and increase production efficiency.
• Review machine operating parameters and make necessary programming adjustments.
• Support tooling setup and presetting using precision measuring equipment.
• Maintain accurate programming documentation, setup instructions, and revision histories.
• Follow established safety, quality, and continuous improvement practices, including 5S.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a CNC Programmer.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline; equivalent relevant experience combined with a high school diploma or GED will also be considered.
• Strong experience with CNC programming and CAD/CAM software.
• Thorough understanding of CNC machining processes, tooling, setups, and workholding.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, operation sheets, and inspection reports.
• Knowledge of cutting tools, machining parameters, speeds, feeds, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of complex machining operations.
• Experience developing machining processes for precision components.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, manufacturing, and quality personnel.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple technical priorities.
• Must meet applicable U.S. Person requirements for access to ITAR-controlled technical data.
• Ability to travel occasionally, approximately 5–10%, when required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
• Experience programming complex multi-axis or five-axis machining operations.
• Experience with advanced CAD/CAM programming software.
• Familiarity with Vericut or comparable CNC program simulation and verification software.
• Experience with Zoller tool presetting or tooling management systems.
• Experience developing CNC setup sheets, tooling documentation, and machining processes.
• Experience troubleshooting CNC programs and optimizing machining cycles.
• Experience implementing corrective actions related to programming or machining nonconformances.
• Experience working with complex precision components and tight dimensional tolerances.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual Salary: $84,000–$124,000, depending on experience and qualifications
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable plan terms.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position operates within a precision manufacturing environment and involves regular collaboration with manufacturing engineers, CNC machinists, setup personnel, and quality professionals.

Responsibilities may include hands-on machine operation during program prove-outs, tooling setup, and troubleshooting activities.

Employees must be able to perform the essential physical functions of the position safely, with or without reasonable accommodation. A post-offer physical capacity assessment may be required where permitted by applicable law.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The employer provides equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.