Programmer II/III

Job Description: CNC Programmer II

The CNC Programmer IIdevelops intermediate to advanced CNC programs for mills, lathes, and multi-axis equipment. This role supports production by optimizing machining processes, designing fixtures, documenting setups, and assisting machinists with troubleshooting.

Programmer II works with moderate independence, producing efficient and accurate toolpaths for plastics and metals while contributing to continuous improvement across the machining department.

Job Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) the following:

Programming & CAM Development

• Create advanced 2D and 3D CNC toolpaths using CAM software (Mastercam or equivalent).
• Develop programs for complex contours, multi-side machining, and moderate 3D surfacing.
• Select appropriate tools, holders, speeds/feeds, and machining strategies based on material and geometry.
• Edit and optimize existing programs to improve cycle time, reduce tooling wear, and enhance quality.

Fixture & Setup Planning

• Design and document workholding, fixtures, and soft jaws for new and repeating jobs.
• Create detailed setup sheets, tool lists, offsets, and step-by-step instructions for machinists.
• Work with CNC machinists to validate setups, first runs, and job transitions.

Production Troubleshooting

• Support machinists in solving machining issues (chatter, tool wear, finish problems, tolerance stack issues).
• Adjust programs and parameters to ensure consistent quality and repeatability.
• Participate in root cause analysis for machining-related defects.

Quality & Engineering Support

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, 3D CAD models, and GD&T requirements.
• Confirm that toolpaths meet dimensional, geometric, and surface finish standards.
• Support quality engineers with first article inspections and process validation.
• Collaborate with Engineering on manufacturability improvements and revision changes.

Process Improvement

• Recommend improvements to cutting strategies, tooling selection, and standard work.
• Assist in evaluating and testing new tools, inserts, and machining technologies.
• Help implement lean manufacturing, 5S, and workflow improvements in the CNC department.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Communicate effectively with machinists, quality inspectors, supervisors, and engineering staff.
• Support prototype builds and new product introduction efforts.

Teamwork & Culture

• Demonstrate and uphold Peak’s Core Values and Behavioral Fundamentals in all daily activities.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship. Exhibit a strong sense of urgency and ownership in meeting deadlines while ensuring product quality.
• Develop skills in advanced toolpath creation, 3D surface machining, and multi-axis strategies.
• Train under a Programmer III or Machine Shop Lead to increase programming proficiency.
• Be proactive and adaptable – willing to assist in other areas as needed.
• Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.

Experience/Knowledge Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; technical certificate preferred.
• 3–6 years of CNC programming or combined programming/machining experience.
• Proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, etc.).
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Experience programming CNC mills and/or lathes.
• Ability to design basic fixtures and workholding solutions.
• Solid understanding of machining plastics, aluminum, stainless steel, and other common materials.

Preferred

• Experience in a small to mid-sized precision machining environment.
• CAD modeling experience (SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Exposure to ISO 9001 / AS9100 documentation and standards.
• Knowledge of high-speed machining strategies and advanced toolpath optimization.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., E2, Plex).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move between machines and computer stations.
• Occasional lifting of materials, tools, or fixtures (up to 35 lbs).

Ability to view detailed CAD drawings and inspect parts visually and dimensionally

Job Description: CNC Programmer III

The CNC Programmer III is a senior-level programmer responsible for developing highly complex CNC programs, optimizing machining processes, designing fixturing, supporting engineering teams, and serving as a technical leader within the machining department.

This role requires expert-level CAM knowledge, strong understanding of machining physics, and the ability to independently translate intricate engineering designs into efficient, repeatable CNC manufacturing processes.

The Programmer III mentors other programmers and machinists, influences tooling and equipment decisions, and plays a key role in improving throughput, quality, and manufacturability.

Job Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) the following:

Advanced Programming & CAM Development

• Develop complex multi-axis CNC programs (3-, 4-, and 5-axis where applicable).
• Create advanced 3D surfacing toolpaths for intricate geometries and high-tolerance components.
• Select optimized tooling, tool holders, cutting strategies, and machining parameters to maximize performance.
• Simulate toolpaths to verify accuracy, avoid crashes, and minimize cycle time.
• Maintain programming standards and best practices across the department.

Fixture & Process Engineering

• Design advanced fixtures, soft jaws, modular workholding, and custom tooling.
• Work with Engineering to ensure parts are designed for manufacturability (DFM).
• Develop and document machining processes for repeatability and efficiency.
• Support prototype builds, new product introductions, and engineering transitions.

Production & Troubleshooting

• Provide top-tier troubleshooting support for machinists and setup technicians.
• Solve complex machining issues, including tolerance stack issues, thermal distortion, chatter, tool deflection, and surface finish problems.
• Approve first-run programs before release to production.
• Revise programs and setups to reduce scrap, rework, and machine downtime.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure toolpaths meet all GD&T, tolerance, and surface finish requirements.
• Collaborate with Quality on FAIs, capability studies, and inspection planning.
• Support ISO 9001 / AS9100 compliance through proper documentation and revision control.

Leadership & Mentoring

• Train and mentor CNC Programmers I & II in CAM techniques, drawing interpretation, and machining strategies.
• Provide technical guidance to machinists and shop leads.
• Help evaluate new equipment, CAM software, and cutting tools for company adoption.
• Support programming workload planning and assist supervisors with scheduling.

Process Improvement

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives targeting cycle time reduction, quality improvement, and tool life optimization.
• Develop standardized programming libraries, templates, and tool databases.
• Utilize lean manufacturing, 5S, and advanced machining methodologies to streamline production.

Teamwork & Culture

• Demonstrate and uphold Peak’s Core Values and Behavioral Fundamentals in all daily activities.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship. Exhibit a strong sense of urgency and ownership in meeting deadlines while ensuring product quality.
• Be proactive and adaptable – willing to assist in other areas as needed.
• Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.

Experience/Knowledge Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; technical certificate or degree preferred.
• 7–12 years of CNC programming and machining experience, including advanced CAM work.
• Expert-level proficiency in Mastercam, or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of multi-axis programming, GD&T, machining dynamics, and process engineering.
• Advanced blueprint and CAD model interpretation.
• Demonstrated success running and validating programs on the shop floor.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred

• Experience in a high-mix, low-volume precision environment.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 / AS9100 requirements.
• Solid modeling experience (SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar).
• Experience evaluating tools, inserts, coatings, and machining technologies.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move between machines and computer stations.
• Occasional lifting of materials, tools, or fixtures (up to 35 lbs).
• Ability to view detailed CAD drawings and inspect parts visually and dimensionally.

Pay: $35.00 - $52.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person