Junior CNC Programmer

Southern Steel Group; Sydney; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Steel Group seeks a motivated Junior CNC Programmer - Laser & Plasma Cutting to join our steel processing team. You will prepare cutting programs for laser and plasma machines, review material specs, and convert CAD files into production-ready programs.

You will collaborate with production and sales to optimise schedules and productivity. Ideal candidates will have basic CNC nesting experience and a keen eye for quality and deadlines.

Qualifications

• Experience using CNC nesting and programming software (SigmaNEST or similar).
• Experience programming laser, plasma or CNC profile cutting equipment.
• Graphic design or sign production experience.
• Cabinet making or CNC woodworking experience.
• Understanding of steel plate grades, thicknesses and cutting processes.
• Strong computer literacy and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to prioritise workloads and meet deadlines.
• Good communication and cross-department collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Prepare CNC cutting programs for laser and plasma cutting using SigmaNEST or similar nesting software.
• Review cutting requirements, including material grades, thicknesses, tolerances and machine capabilities.
• Convert and process DXF, DWG and other CAD files into production-ready cutting programs.
• Coordinate with production supervisors, machine operators and sales teams to ensure efficient scheduling and delivery.
• Identify opportunities to improve cutting speeds, material utilisation and machine productivity.
• Troubleshoot programming issues and provide technical support to machine operators.
• Ensure programs meet customer specifications, quality standards and workplace safety requirements.

Skills

CNC programming

Laser & Plasma cutting knowledge

Computer literacy

Problem-solving

Time management

Team communication

Tools

SigmaNEST

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

ERP systems

Job description

Rigby Jones Engineering, part of the Southern Steel Group, is a leading steel processor providing specialised services to the engineering and fabrication industries across NSW.

We are seeking a motivated Junior CNC Programmer - Laser & Plasma Cutting to join our steel processing team. You bring the right attitude and work ethic. We'll teach you the rest.

The successful candidate will be able to visualise how best to sort different shapes and sizes into the smallest possible area. No two jobs are the same! What we do one day, may not be suited to the next day, so having an open mind is key to being in this role. You will eventually be guiding production workflows, with a focus on efficiency, quality and meeting customer deadlines.

Skills & Experience - Preferred but not required

• Experience using CNC nesting and programming software, preferably SigmaNEST or equivalent.


• Experience programming laser, plasma or other CNC profile cutting equipment.


• Graphic design and or sign production


• Cabinet making and or CNC woodworking


• Understanding of steel plate grades, thicknesses and cutting processes.


• Strong computer literacy, attention to detail and problem-solving skills.


• Ability to prioritise workloads and meet production deadlines.


• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare CNC cutting programs for laser and plasma cutting machines using SigmaNEST or similar nesting software.


• Review cutting requirements, including material grades, thicknesses, tolerances and machine capabilities.


• Convert and process DXF, DWG and other CAD files into production-ready cutting programs.


• Coordinate with production supervisors, machine operators and sales teams to ensure efficient scheduling and delivery.


• Identify opportunities to improve cutting speeds, material utilisation and machine productivity.


• Troubleshoot programming issues and provide technical support to machine operators.


• Ensure programs meet customer specifications, quality standards and workplace safety requirements.

Highly Regarded:

• Experience in a steel service centre, metal fabrication or heavy engineering environment.


• Knowledge of AutoCAD, SolidWorks or similar CAD software.


• Experience with material yield optimisation and production planning.


• Understanding of CNC machine capabilities, cutting parameters and production efficiency.


• Familiarity with ERP or manufacturing management systems.


• Experience with both laser and high-definition plasma cutting technologies.

Note: We promote a safe work culture; therefore, reference checks and pre-employment medicals, including drug and alcohol screening, will form part of the recruitment process for the successful applicant.