CNC Machinist (OKUMA Programmer)

SMC Automation Canada, LTD; Sydney; On-site; AUD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site parking

Company superannuation

Insurance options

Employee wellbeing program

Job summary

SMC Corporation in Sydney is seeking an experienced CNC Machinist specializing in Okuma equipment. You will own the full machining process for bespoke, high-precision components in a high-mix, low-volume environment, from drawings to finished parts.

With 10+ years in Okuma programming, setting and machining, you will develop strategies, select tooling, and optimize cycles. You’ll work autonomously yet contribute to a collaborative manufacturing team, ensuring safety and quality at every step.

Qualifications

• At least 10+ years proven experience programming, setting and operating Okuma CNC machines.
• Strong understanding of 4 and 5-axis machining.
• Experience working with Okuma lathes and milling machines.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and CAD data.
• Strong understanding of tooling, fixturing and machining processes.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving capability.
• Ability to work independently and manage priorities with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to safety and quality.

Responsibilities

• Program, set and operate Okuma CNC 4 and 5-axis machines using Okuma OSP (P200, P300, P400 & P500) controls.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models and manufacturing specifications.
• Develop machining strategies and determine optimal tooling, cutting parameters and toolpaths.
• Produce high-precision bespoke components to exact specifications.
• Program and optimise CNC machining processes for efficiency, quality and repeatability.
• Perform machine setups, tooling selection and first-off inspections.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and cycle-time reduction.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling and manufacturing issues.
• Recommend design or material improvements to enhance manufacturability.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality and continuous improvement.

Skills

CNC programming

Okuma CNC controls

Five-axis machining

Reading CAD data

Troubleshooting

Education

Mechanical Engineering Trade Certificate or Level 4

Tools

Okuma machines

CAD/CAM programming

Job description

SMC Corporation is a global market leader in pneumatic and industrial automation solutions. Renowned for Japanese quality, engineering excellence and customer-focused innovation, we support manufacturers worldwide through advanced automation technologies, local manufacturing capabilities and industry-leading technical expertise.

As our manufacturing team continues to grow, we have an opportunity for an experienced CNC Machinist (specialising in Okuma's), who takes pride in solving complex machining challenges and delivering exceptional precision outcomes.

About the Role

Please note this is not a high-volume production machining role.

We are looking for a skilled professional who enjoys the challenge of programming, setting and machining bespoke precision components in a high-mix, low-volume environment. Typical batch sizes range from one-off prototypes to small runs of 2 components, requiring significant programming input, machining strategy development and technical problem solving.

You will take ownership of the entire machining process, from interpreting engineering drawings through to producing finished precision components using advanced Okuma CNC equipment.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys:

Creating and optimising CNC programs

Solving complex machining challenges

Multi-axis machining

Continuous variety and technical problem solving

Working autonomously while contributing to a collaborative team

Key Responsibilities

Program, set and operate Okuma CNC 4 and 5-axis machines using Okuma OSP (P200, P300, P400 & P500) controls.

Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models and manufacturing specifications.

Develop machining strategies and determine optimal tooling, cutting parameters and toolpaths.

Produce high-precision bespoke components to exact specifications.

Program and optimise CNC machining processes for efficiency, quality and repeatability.

Perform machine setups, tooling selection and first-off inspections.

Identify opportunities for process improvement and cycle-time reduction.

Troubleshoot machining, tooling and manufacturing issues.

Recommend design or material improvements to enhance manufacturability.

Maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality and continuous improvement.

About You

You are a highly skilled CNC Machining professional who enjoys working on challenging, specialised components rather than repetitive production work.

You will bring:

At least 10+ years proven experience programming, setting and operating Okuma CNC machines.

Strong understanding of 4 and 5-axis machining.

Experience working with Okuma lathes and milling machines.

Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and CAD data.

Strong understanding of tooling, fixturing and machining processes.

Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving capability.

Ability to work independently and manage priorities with minimal supervision.

Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Commitment to safety and quality.

Preferred

Mechanical Engineering Trade Certificate, Level 4 qualification or equivalent.

CAD/CAM programming experience.

Experience producing prototype, bespoke or low-volume precision components.

Experience machining a variety of materials and complex geometries.

Why Join SMC?

At SMC, you'll have the opportunity to work on technically challenging projects using quality equipment within a supportive manufacturing environment.

We offer:

A genuinely varied role with minimal repetitive production work.

Technical autonomy and ownership of programming and machining outcomes.

Opportunities to contribute ideas, improve processes and influence manufacturing excellence.

Modern Okuma CNC technology and quality equipment.

A collaborative team environment with experienced technical leaders.

Career development and internal progression opportunities.

Competitive salary package with annual salary reviews.

Company superannuation benefits including insurance options.

Employee wellbeing initiatives and Employee Assistance Program.

On-site parking at our Hills District manufacturing facility, conveniently located near public transport.