3D CNC Programmer / Operator - Aviation / Aerospace

Johnson Service Group, Inc.; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Short-term disability

401(k)

Weekly pay

Job summary

Johnson Service Group, Inc. in Houston seeks a 3D CNC Programmer/Operator to program, set up, and run CNC milling and turning centers for precision aerospace components.

You will generate 3D toolpaths, select tooling, validate with simulations, and perform first article inspections to AS9110 standards. The role requires CAM/VCarve proficiency, GD&T knowledge, and experience with high-temperature aerospace alloys.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or vocational certification preferred.
• Experience: 3–5+ years programming/operating 3D/CNC machines in aerospace or high-precision defense manufacturing.
• Proficient with CAM/CAD software and GD&T standards.

Responsibilities

• Create, optimize, and edit 3D and CNC programs using CAM/V Carve; interpret CAD models and blueprints.
• Set up and operate CNC milling/turning centers; load programs, set WCS, tool offsets, and calibration points.
• Perform First Article Inspection (FAI) per AS9110; document traceability and part conformance.
• Maintain 5S standards and safe operation; perform routine preventative maintenance and tool life tracking.

Skills

CAM/CAD/V Carve

GD&T & Blueprints

Tooling & Fixtures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree or vocational certification

Job description

Position Summary

The 3D CNC Programmer / Operator is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC milling and turning machines to produce precision flight-critical components and tooling for the aviation and aerospace industry. This role requires generating 3D toolpaths using CAD/CAM/V Carve software, selecting appropriate tooling and parameters for high-temp alloys and light metals, validating programs via simulation, and carrying out first-article inspections to stringent aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9110).

Key Responsibilities & Duties

1. Create, optimize, and edit 3D and CNC programs using CAM/ V Carve. Interpret complex 3D CAD models, engineering blueprints, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing callouts, and aerospace customer specifications. Perform virtual machine simulation and collision checking to protect high-value aerospace machinery and workpiece stock. Select appropriate cutting tools, holders, speeds, feeds, and chip loads optimized for aerospace materials.
2. Set up and operate CNC table and machining centers (e.g., Haas, DMG Mori, Mazak, Makino) safely and efficiently. Load program files, set work coordinate systems (WCS), tool offsets, and calibrate zero points using probing systems. Design, select, and install custom fixtures, vacuum chucks, and workholding devices required for complex, thin-walled, or contoured aerospace parts. Monitor machining operations, perform prove-outs on first-run programs, and adjust offsets or feed rates to ensure surface finish and dimensional tolerance requirements are met.
3. Perform First Article Inspection (FAI) per AS9110 standards, verifying dimensions using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges) and CMM reports. Maintain strict traceability of materials, cutting tools, non-conforming parts, and process documentation as required by FAA / AS9110 quality management systems. Document process improvements, tool life tracking, and cycle-time optimizations.
4. Perform routine preventative maintenance on CNC machinery, tooling, and ducting systems. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area adhering to 5S principles and OSHA guidelines. Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling hazardous materials and cutting fluids.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

Education: High school diploma or GED required. Associate degree or vocational certification in Precision Machining / CNC Programming strongly preferred.

Experience: 3 to 5+ years of hands-on experience programming and operating 3D/CNC machines in aerospace, aviation, or high-precision defense manufacturing. Demonstrated experience working with tough aerospace alloys as well as light aerospace metals (Aluminum and stainless steels alloys) and composites.

Technical Skills

• CAM/CAD/V Carve Software: Advanced proficiency in CAM software is a plus.
• GD&T & Blueprints: Thorough understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing standards.
• Tooling & Fixtures: Deep knowledge of cutting tool geometry, carbide/ceramic inserts, custom workholding, and high-speed machining (HSM) techniques.

Preferred Certifications (Bonus)

• CNC Programmer or Machinist Certification.
• AS9100 / ISO 9001 internal quality system training.
• OSHA Safety.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 45 lbs independently. Ability to stand for extended periods (8-10 hours per shift). Work environment includes exposure to industrial noise, oil mists, metal shavings, and heavy machinery (appropriate PPE provided).

Benefits & Compensation

JSG offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance options, short-term disability, 401(k), weekly pay, and more.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Johnson Service Group (JSG) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. JSG provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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