CNC Programming Leader

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We are seeking an experienced CNC Programming Leader to head our CNC Programming Department within an advanced aerospace manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for overseeing a team of CNC programmers, ensuring high-quality, efficient, and repeatable machining processes across our shop.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical leader with deep expertise in Hypermill, multi-axis programming, process optimization, and advanced machining strategies. This position will directly influence productivity, quality, throughput, and machine utilization across the CNC area.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and supervise the CNC programming team (programmers and setup personnel).

• Develop machining strategies for lathes, 3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis machining centers, and multitasking machines.

• Create, review, and optimize CNC programs using Hypermill (OpenMind).

• Validate programs through simulation, verification, and first-article machining support.

• Maintain and improve tooling selections, cutting strategies, and machining parameters for aerospace components.

Process & Continuous Improvement

• Standardize programming workflows, documentation, and best practices.

• Work with Manufacturing Engineering to design routing, fixtures, workholding, and machining sequences.

• Reduce machining cycle times while ensuring quality and tool life targets.

• Support troubleshooting on the shop floor and implement root-cause corrective actions.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure CNC programs comply with aerospace standards and internal quality requirements.

• Collaborate with Quality, Operations, and Engineering teams to ensure dimensional conformity and process stability.

KPI Ownership

This leader will be measured and accountable for:

• CNC machine utilization (≥ 90% target)

• Parts delivered vs. production plan

• Rework / Scrap percentage

• Programming lead-time and on-time delivery of CNC programs

• Cycle-time reduction and productivity improvements

Qualifications & Experience

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.

• 6+ years of experience in CNC programming, with strong exposure to complex aerospace or high-precision machining.

• Expert-level proficiency in Hypermill.

• Proven ability to program:

• CNC lathes

• 3-axis milling

• 4-axis milling

• 5-axis simultaneous machining

• Multitasking / mill-turn centers

• Experience leading technical teams or supervising programmers.

• Strong understanding of GD&T, machining tolerances, and aerospace manufacturing requirements.

• Hands-on approach and willingness to support shop floor issues.

Preferred

• Experience in AS9100 / AS13100 environments.

• Knowledge of Siemens, Fanuc, or Heidenhain controls.

• Experience with advanced fixtures, modular tooling, and machining optimization techniques.