CNC Programming Engineer

CNC Programming Engineer

The CNC Programming Engineer will be responsible for designing complex tooling and preparing programs to manufacture work orders for complex aerospace and precision industrial fasteners on CNC equipment. Select suitable designs, tools and materials from a wide variety of combinations to obtain optimum tool life.

Primary Functional Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To:

• Develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for multi-axis machines used in aerospace fastener production
• Collaborate with tooling engineers and machinists to ensure efficient, high-quality machining processes
• Troubleshoot machining issues and continuously improve cycle times, tool life, and part quality
• Implement and support automation strategies to improve throughput and reduce manual intervention.
• Lead or support the implementation of new machines, including setup, programming, and integration into production.
• Maintain documentation and revision control for all CNC programs and setup sheets
• Review and analyze method sheets, product drawings, work drawings, and related specifications for each order to be processed and resolve any errors or inconsistencies
• Select and assign drills, reamers, cutters, threading tools, form tools, fixtures, spacers, holders, cams, bushings, collets, etc. (tooling) necessary to set up and perform each operation as called for on the method sheet.
• Design complicated tooling or modify and improve existing tooling when standard tooling does not exist, giving full consideration to the dimension requirements, material, shrinkage, formability, machinability, machining rates, etc.
• Prepare the necessary drawings for each new tool, assign part numbers and maintain part number files, parts books, reference files or other records used to locate tools and parts and to eliminate duplication.
• Prepare layout sheets as required, especially for complicated progressions or multiple tooling, to show manufacturing the position of each tool on turrets, carriages, slides, etc., the relationship to other tools and the sequences of operation.
• Tool check each order. Estimate the tool life for each work order and list the quantity of each item required. Review the availability of each item and prepare tool requisitions for all items not in stock.
• Review all first piece runs at the machine to assure product conformance and to prove the accuracy and efficiency of the program and method. Make any necessary changes to improve tool life and achieve the most economical cycle time.
• Review each order for possible cost reductions. Recommend method changes where CNC methods are more economical.
• Attend programming courses and seminars as required to become knowledgeable of new methods and equipment and the latest developments in the field.
• With limited guidance required, resolve difficult and unusual problems Advise supervisor of all orders where the costs or delivery dates cannot be met.
• Prepare monthly summary of all cost improvements.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with Manufacturing, Production Control, Purchasing and other engineering team members.

Required Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of Fanuc controls and CAM software (GibbsCAM), and SolidWorks Software
• Automation and gantry load systems for high volume components
• Demonstrated continuous improvement on tooling cost and cut time
• Able to define new machine tool requirements and project manage implementation
• Excellent communication skills; must be able to communicate effectively with vendors, engineering colleagues, and machinists
• Green Belt Certification, preferred

Required Experience:

• 5+ years CNC programming experience in aerospace or similarly complex manufacturing
• Experience machining aerospace-grade alloys, especially high-nickel content materials.
• Tooling selection
• Turning and milling capability (3 axis, 4 axis, and 3 +2axis)
• Strong understanding of GD&T knowledge and precision manufacturing standards.

Level of Education:

Degree in engineering or a related field is helpful but not required. Candidates with equivalent experience and a strong track record in CNC programming are encouraged to apply.