CMM Programmer

PTA Plastics; Niwot (CO); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee-owned

Flexible scheduling

Competitive pay

Job summary

PTA Plastics in Niwot, CO is seeking a CMM Programmer to develop and execute dimensional inspection programs for precision injection-molded components. You will program and operate CMMs using PC-DMIS, Calypso, and other metrology software, interpreting GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and customer specs.

You’ll lead First Article Inspections, analyze data, support process validation and capability studies, and collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Manufacturing to ensure measurement integrity across

Qualifications

• Three or more years of hands-on CMM programming experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Ability to independently create, modify, and troubleshoot CMM programs—not solely operate previously developed programs.
• Strong knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and inspection planning.

Responsibilities

• Independently develop, modify, validate, and troubleshoot CMM programs for new and existing components.
• Program and operate CMM equipment using PC-DMIS, Calypso, or comparable metrology software.
• Interpret complex drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements to determine inspection methods.
• Perform First Article Inspections and document results, including AS9102 when required.
• Develop inspection plans and automated routines for new products and validation activities.

Skills

CMM programming

GD&T

First Article Inspections

PC-DMIS

Calypso

Data interpretation

SPC/SQC

Blueprint reading

Education

High school

Tools

PC-DMIS

Calypso

ZEISS

Hexagon

OGP vision systems

Job description

• Location 7350 Dry Creek Parkway,Niwot, CO, 80503,United States
• Base Pay $30.00 - $40.00 / Hour
• Relocation Expense Covered No
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Required Degree High school
• Manage Others No

Job Summary:

The CMM Programmer is responsible for developing and executing dimensional inspection programs for precision injection-molded components and assemblies. This position programs and operates Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) and other automated inspection equipment, interprets complex engineering drawings and advanced Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), and determines the most appropriate measurement methods. The role supports first article inspections, product and process validation, capability studies, production inspection, and customer-specific quality requirements by providing accurate, reliable dimensional data. This is a hands‑on metrology role requiring independent CMM programming experience—not solely operation of existing programs.

Company Overview:

PTA Plastics, an employee‑owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool‑building industry, is looking for a CMM Programmer to join our dynamic team.

At PTA Plastics, we’re more than just a manufacturer; we partner with Fortune 500 OEMs in the medical device, defense, homeland security, and technology sectors, constantly pushing the boundaries of product development and manufacturing excellence. As an employee‑owned company, every team member has a stake in our success, creating a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where innovation thrives.

Pay:

$30-$40/hr

Schedule:

Open to different scheduling options including the below listing or swing schedules:

• 6:30am-3pm
• 12pm-8pm
• 2:30pm-11pm
• 10:30pm-7am

• Independently develop, modify, validate, and troubleshoot CMM programs for new and existing components.
• Program and operate CMM equipment using PC-DMIS, Calypso, or comparable metrology software.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, customer specifications, and advanced GD&T requirements.
• Determine appropriate inspection methods, datum structures, alignments, probe configurations, and measurement strategies.
• Perform dimensional inspections using CMMs, OGP or other vision systems, and precision hand‑measurement equipment.
• Perform First Article Inspections and accurately document results, including AS9102 documentation when customer requirements apply.
• Develop inspection plans and automated inspection routines for new products, validation activities, and ongoing production.
• Perform Measurement System Analyses, Gage R&R studies, and process capability studies and document the results.
• Analyze inspection data and provide engineers with accurate information for statistical analysis and process improvement.
• Support drawing‑review meetings by identifying tolerance, datum, measurement, and inspectability concerns.
• Assist in the design and development of inspection fixtures and measurement setups.
• Perform or coordinate calibration and verification activities for automated inspection equipment.
• Perform customer‑specific quality testing when required.
• Provide technical support to Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Tooling personnel regarding metrology and inspection requirements.
• Train and guide employees on the operation and troubleshooting of automated inspection equipment and proper measurement techniques.
• Maintain accurate inspection records in accordance with customer, regulatory, and company requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Quality Manager.

Supervisory Duties:

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Three or more years of hands‑on CMM programming experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to independently create, modify, and troubleshoot CMM programs—not solely operate previously developed programs.
• Proficiency with PC-DMIS, Calypso, or comparable CMM programming software.
• Advanced ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and customer specifications.
• Strong working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) in accordance with ASME Y14.5.
• Strong understanding of dimensional metrology, datum structures, measurement methods, inspection planning, and precision measurement practices.
• Mechanical inspection experience using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, indicators, pin gauges, and comparable equipment.
• Experience performing First Article Inspections, Measurement System Analyses, Gage R&R studies, and capability studies.
• Knowledge and understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Statistical Quality Control (SQC) tools and techniques.
• Ability to interpret inspection results, identify measurement discrepancies, troubleshoot programs, and clearly communicate findings.
• Working knowledge of computer databases, spreadsheets, SPC/SQC software, and CAD/CAM systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and related business applications.
• Strong written, verbal, organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Five or more years of CMM programming and dimensional metrology experience.
• Experience programming ZEISS or Hexagon CMM equipment.
• Experience programming OGP or comparable vision‑measurement systems.
• Experience inspecting plastic injection‑molded components, tooling, fixtures, or medical‑device products.
• Experience working in an ISO 9001, ISO 13485, or similarly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Experience with CAD models, model‑based inspection, offline programming, or CAD-to-CMM programming.
• Formal GD&T training, metrology coursework, or a relevant ASQ or technical certification.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, and move around the production floor for extended periods.
• Capable of lifting and carrying heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination for handling small tools, machine components, and molds.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Capacity to wear personal protective equipment (PPE); safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection.
• Occasional bending, kneeling, and reaching to access equipment and perform tasks.
• Color perception for inspecting parts and identifying any defects or abnormalities.
• Ability to work in temperature‑controlled environments and withstand exposure to noise levels associated with manufacturing machinery.
• Ability to receive, comprehend and utilize required training from OSHA and Company including but not limited to the following:
• Knowledge of hazard communication and applicable safety requirements.
• Knowledge of Lockout/Tagout requirements.

ITAR Requirements:

To conform to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at PTA Plastics must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e., current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1157-1158.

Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance Statement :

PTA Plastics is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, PTA Plastics will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations in the hiring process and in the workplace. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process or to perform essential job functions, please contact [e-mail]

Pursuant to the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) , PTA Plastics does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities in any aspect of employment, including hiring, job assignments, promotions, compensation, benefits, training, discipline, and termination.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.