Senior CNC Machinist/Machine Shop Programmer - 5-Axis

De-Havilland-Aircraft-of-Canada-Lt; Calgary; On-site; CAD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Benefits package

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Westerkirk Capital is seeking a Senior CNC Machinist/Machine Shop Programmer with advanced 5-axis machining and Mastercam expertise to join the aerospace manufacturing team. The role emphasizes attitude, teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement alongside strong machining fundamentals.

The successful candidate will develop and optimize 5-axis programs, interpret GD&T and MBD, select tooling, and mentor junior staff.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years CNC programming experience.
• Proficiency in Mastercam (latest version preferred).
• Background as machinist or toolmaker with hands-on experience.
• Experience in aerospace manufacturing and working to aerospace standards.
• Solid understanding of GD&T, MBD, and precision machining requirements.
• Knowledge of cutting tool technology, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies for aerospace materials.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate 5-axis CNC programs using Mastercam for aerospace components.
• Interpret drawings, models and GD&T to create machining strategies.
• Collaborate with machinists, engineers and production staff to ensure manufacturability and quality.
• Select tooling and cutting parameters to maximize productivity while ensuring part integrity.
• Conduct prove-outs, troubleshooting, and continuous improvements on CNC programs.
• Support NPI and prototype development in aerospace machining projects.
• Maintain documentation of programs, tool lists and setups in accordance with aerospace standards.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to machinists and operators on CNC setup and best practices.

Skills

5-axis machining

Mastercam

CNC programming

Machinist/Toolmaker background

GD&T/MBD

problem solving

team collaboration

Tools

Mastercam

Vericut

Catia

NX

Job description

Senior CNC Machinist/Machine Shop Programmer - 5-Axis:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior CNC Machinist/Machine Shop Programmer with advanced experience in 5-axis machining and Mastercam Programming to join our aerospace manufacturing team. The successful candidate will bring a strong machining background, a proactive attitude, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.

While technical expertise is essential, one of our main selection criteria is attitude and personality—qualities such as teamwork, adaptability, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset. We can train technical skills, but we value people who show the right approach, integrity, and drive to succeed in aerospace manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, optimize, and validate 5-axis CNC programs using Mastercam for complex aerospace components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, models, and specifications (GD&T, MBD) to create accurate machining strategies.
• Collaborate with machinists, engineers, and production staff to ensure manufacturability, efficiency, and quality.
• Select tooling, cutting parameters, and machining strategies to maximize productivity while ensuring part integrity.
• Conduct prove-outs, troubleshooting, and continuous improvements on CNC programs.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) and prototype development in aerospace machining projects.
• Maintain accurate documentation of programs, tool lists, and setups in compliance with aerospace standards.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to machinists/operators on CNC setup, tool usage, and machining best practices.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum 5–7 years CNC programming experience, with a focus on 5-axis machining.
• Proficiency in Mastercam (latest version preferred).
• Strong background as a machinist or toolmaker with practical hands-on experience.
• Experience in aerospace manufacturing and working to aerospace standards .
• Solid understanding of GD&T, model-based definition (MBD), and precision machining requirements.
• Knowledge of advanced cutting tool technology, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies for high-strength aerospace materials (Titanium, Inconel, Aluminum, etc.).
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to optimize machining processes.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with additional CAD/CAM or verification software (Vericut, Catia, NX, etc.).
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, process improvement, and continuous improvement practices.
• Ability to train and mentor junior programmers and machinists.

Why Join Us?

• Work on cutting-edge aerospace components that demand precision and innovation.
• Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and development.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Be part of a team that values attitude, accountability, and teamwork as highly as technical skills.