5-Axis CNC Programmer

RIM Recruitment Professionals; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

RIM Recruitment Professionals seeks an experienced CNC Programmer for a custom manufacturing environment. You will translate drawings into precise CNC programs and collaborate with machinists to meet quality and production targets.

Proficiency in CAD/CAM (Mastercam and SolidWorks) and strong G-code knowledge are essential. Ideal candidates have 3–5 years of CNC programming in a job shop setting, a solid understanding of tooling, feeds, speeds, and material removal.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to translate drawings/models into CNC programs.
• Experience with 3-axis and 5-axis equipment.
• Strong knowledge of tooling, feeds, speeds, and materials.
• Read and interpret technical drawings and models.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software Mastercam and SolidWorks.

Responsibilities

• Develop CNC programs from drawings and models.
• Validate CNC code before release to production.
• Create setup sheets and run-time estimates.
• Optimize programs to improve cycle times and accuracy.
• Collaborate with machinists to ensure quality and production requirements.
• Support MRB process as needed.

Skills

CAD/CAM proficiency

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CNC programming certification

Tools

Mastercam

SolidWorks

G-code

Job description

Work Environment: Office and machine shop

Travel: Minimal; occasional local travel may be required

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer to develop, verify, and optimize programs for a variety of CNC equipment in a custom manufacturing environment. This role translates technical drawings and models into accurate, efficient machining programs and works closely with machinists to ensure parts meet quality standards and production requirements.

The ideal candidate brings strong CAD/CAM skills, a thorough understanding of machining practices and tooling, and a commitment to safety, precision, and productivity.

Key Responsibilities

CNC Programming and Setup

Review work orders, technical drawings, and models to understand project requirements, dimensional tolerances, and production expectations.

Develop CNC programs using CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam and SolidWorks.

Validate models and verify CNC code before releasing programs to the shop.

Create tool lists, setup sheets, and estimated run times for each program.

Develop programs and setups that meet the run-time estimates outlined in work orders.

Modify and optimize existing programs to improve accuracy, efficiency, and cycle times.

Maintain knowledge of available shop tooling and coordinate additional tooling needs with management and purchasing.

Production Support and Quality

Collaborate with machinists and area managers to ensure a smooth handoff of programs and setup instructions.

Support test runs and adjust programs, machine settings, tooling, feeds, and speeds to achieve optimal cutting conditions.

Troubleshoot programming errors and machining issues.

Use precision measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, and CMM equipment, to verify part conformity.

Conduct root cause analysis and recommend corrective actions.

Participate in the Material Review Board (MRB) process when requested.

Process Improvement

Evaluate machining processes to improve productivity, reduce cycle times, and maintain quality.

Document and standardize programming methods and best practices.

Work with area managers and project managers to develop machining methods for new or complex parts.

Safety

Follow company safety policies and applicable safety rules and regulations.

Review machining setups for potential safety risks.

Use appropriate personal protective equipment and practice safe equipment operation.

Maintain awareness of personal safety and the safety of others.

Follow company quality standards and customer requirements.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification in CNC programming or a related field preferred.

Three to five years of CNC programming experience in a job shop or custom manufacturing environment.

Proficiency with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam and SolidWorks.

Strong knowledge of G-code and M-code.

Experience programming CNC mills, lathes, and 3-axis and 5-axis equipment.

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and models.

Thorough understanding of machining principles, machine setups, tooling, inserts, feeds, speeds, and material removal rates.

Knowledge of machining a variety of materials, including metals, composites, and plastics.

Familiarity with precision measuring tools and inspection techniques.

Skills and Attributes

Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Attention to detail and a focus on precision and quality.

Clear communication and effective teamwork.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic manufacturing environment.