CNC Programmer (Engineer)

AirQ; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Air Q Limited is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer (Engineer) to lead multi-axis CNC programming for UAV structures and components. You will develop Mastercam programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining, design jigs and fixtures, and provide technical leadership on the shop floor.

The role requires strong CAD/CAM expertise, knowledge of Siemens 840D/ONE controls, and a focus on process optimization, quality, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of Mastercam multi-axis programming for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks CAD and fixture/tooling development.
• Expertise with Siemens 840D and Siemens ONE CNC controls and real-world setup/troubleshooting.
• Ability to select cutting tools and optimize machining parameters for metals and composites.
• Strong reading of engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerancing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead CNC programming for multi-axis machines to maximize throughput and accuracy.
• Develop and validate Mastercam programs for UAV structures and components.
• Plan production by estimating cycle times and identifying bottlenecks.
• Design robust jigs, fixtures, and tooling to improve repeatability and reliability.
• Provide day-to-day technical support to CNC operators and engineers.
• Collaborate with Design, Engineering, and Quality teams to ensure manufacturability.
• Drive continuous improvement in machining processes, throughput, and cost.
• Maintain manufacturing documentation including setup sheets and standards.

Skills

Mastercam multi-axis programming

SolidWorks CAD

Siemens 840D controls

Siemens ONE CNC controls

Jigs and fixtures design

Tooling development

Cutting tools selection

CNC parameter optimization

GD&T interpretation

Tools

Mastercam

SolidWorks

Siemens control software

Job description

Air Q Limited is seeking an experienced and highly skilled CNC Programmer (Engineer) to lead multi-axis CNC programming and machining operations, with a strong focus on precision manufacturing for UAV structures and components. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in Mastercam multi-axis programming, including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining, along with proficiency in SolidWorks CAD, Siemens 840D and Siemens ONE CNC controls, and the development of jigs, fixtures, and tooling solutions.

The role requires strong technical expertise in CAD/CAM programming, machining process optimization, and production support to ensure high-quality manufacturing, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement across CNC machining operations.

Requirements

• Lead and manage CNC programming operations across advanced 3-axis, 4 axis, and 5-axis machining centres, ensuring optimal machine utilization, process efficiency, and production performance.
• Develop, validate, and optimize complex CAD/CAM programs using Mastercam for the precision machining of metallic and composite UAV structures and components.
• Perform production planning analyses by estimating machining cycle times, identifying process bottlenecks, and implementing strategies to improve throughput and manufacturing efficiency.
• Design and develop robust jigs, fixtures, and tooling solutions for metallic and composite applications, enhancing dimensional accuracy, repeatability, and process reliability.
• Determine the most effective manufacturing methods by selecting suitable materials, cutting tools, tool paths, and machining parameters to achieve quality, productivity, and cost objectives.
• Create and maintain comprehensive manufacturing documentation, including setup sheets, tooling requirements, machining instructions, and process standards to support efficient production execution.
• Provide technical leadership and day-to-day support to CNC operators and production personnel, ensuring proper machine setup, process control, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate closely with Design, Engineering, and Quality teams throughout the product development lifecycle to ensure manufacturability, reduce production risks, and support a smooth transition from prototype to full-scale production.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on machining performance, process capability, quality enhancement, waste reduction, and manufacturing cost optimization.
• Ensure full compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, safety regulations, and industry best practices across all machining and manufacturing activities.

Skills Required

• Minimum 5 years of proven experience in Mastercam Multiaxis Programming is mandatory.
• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks CAD, with hands-on experience in designing and developing jigs, fixtures, and tooling solutions.
• Extensive knowledge of cutting tool selection for various materials and machining applications, ensuring optimal tool performance and productivity.
• Demonstrated ability to determine and optimize cutting parameters and machining conditions for a wide range of materials to achieve maximum efficiency, accuracy, and tool life.
• Proven experience with Siemens 840D and Siemens ONE CNC controls, including CNC programming, machine setup, operation, and troubleshooting.
• Hands-on experience in touch probe programming, including machine calibration, work offset setting, part alignment, and in-process/final inspection routines.
• Solid understanding of CNC machine maintenance, including preventive maintenance practices, basic troubleshooting, and machine health monitoring.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing specifications.
• Experience machining complex, high-precision components while maintaining the highest standards of quality and accuracy.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to optimize machining processes, reduce cycle times, and improve overall manufacturing performance.
• Ability to work independently and effectively support production, engineering, and shop-floor operations.