CNC Programmer

About the role

This is a hands-on programming role in a high-mix, low-volume precision engineering environment. Your work will be predominantly one-off and small-run production, ranging from precision components through to large and complex industrial equipment, repair and refurbishment work.

You will be responsible for developing efficient and practical CNC machining programs, machining strategies, tooling and workholding solutions for a diverse range of components. Our CNC capability includes milling, turning and multi-axis machining, with a range of high-quality equipment including Kitamura, Mori Seiki, Okuma and SNK machines.

This isn't repetitive production programming, jobs regularly require creative machining strategies, careful consideration of setups and work holding, and close collaboration with machinists and the wider production team.

While programming will be the primary focus of the role, there is a practical workshop-based component to this position. Setting, proving and operating CNC machines may be required when necessary, particularly when proving new programs, developing processes or supporting production.

Key responsibilities

• Develop CNC programs for one-off and low-volume components
• Program CNC milling, turning and multi-axis machining operations
• Develop effective machining strategies and setup sequences
• Select tooling, cutting parameters and work holding methods
• Review engineering drawings, models and specifications
• Optimise programs for machining efficiency, tool life and component quality
• Support machinists with setup, proving and troubleshooting
• Set, prove and operate CNC machinery when required
• Identify and resolve programming and machining issues
• Work closely with production, engineering and quality personnel

About you

• Proven CNC programming experience in a precision engineering environment
• Experience with a recognised CAM programming package, knowledge of Esprit an advantage but not essential
• Experience programming CNC milling, turning and/or multi-axis machinery
• Strong practical understanding of machining processes, tooling and cutting parameters
• Experience with one-off, low-volume or high-mix engineering work
• Ability to develop practical work holding and setup strategies
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, models and specifications
• Experience setting and proving CNC programs on the machine
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability

Benefits

• Interesting and technically challenging programming work
• One-off and low-volume precision engineering
• Milling, turning and multi-axis machining
• Exposure to large and complex components and engineering projects
• High-quality CNC machinery
• A hands-on role with genuine involvement in the machining process
• Flexible working-hour options
• Competitive remuneration based on skills and experience
• Stable, established engineering company
• Supportive and experienced production team

About us

GTech New Zealand is a Christchurch-based precision engineering company specialising in the manufacture, service and repair of high-speed industrial centrifuges and associated equipment. Our work supports customers across New Zealand and international markets, alongside a diverse range of specialist engineering projects.

Our machining capability is a key part of the business, with a well-equipped workshop, experienced tradespeople and a strong focus on quality. The variety and complexity of our work means we value practical thinking, problem solving and people who take pride in producing good engineering.