CNC Lead Programmer

Howmet Aerospace; Brea (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace is seeking a CNC Lead/Programmer to support a 12-machine CNC cell, focusing on programming, setup, troubleshooting, and operator support. The role requires strong CNC knowledge, tooling, and the ability to optimize processes for bolts, screws, and fastener components.

The position emphasizes working with exotic and non-exotic metals, maintaining safety standards, and providing technical guidance to operators and production staff.

Qualifications

• Strong CNC machining background with programming and setup experience.
• Experience with CNC lathes and mills.
• Experience with Fanuc and OSP controls; Cubic control experience preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints and understand machining specifications.
• Strong troubleshooting and machine setup skills.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment within the manufacturing cell.
• Support approximately 12 CNC machines and secondary operations.
• Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs to meet production requirements.
• Perform machine setups, tooling changes, offsets, and adjustments.
• Provide technical guidance and training to CNC operators.
• Communicate production issues and quality problems to leadership.

Skills

CNC programming

Machine setup

Troubleshooting

Blueprint reading

Tools

Fanuc controls

OSP controls

Cubic control

Okuma equipment

Takisawa equipment

Trident equipment

Job description

Position Summary

The CNC Lead / Programmer is responsible for supporting daily operations within a CNC manufacturing cell, providing hands-on programming, setup, troubleshooting, and technical support to operators. This role will support a CNC cell of approximately 12 machines, along with related secondary operations, while maintaining quality, productivity, and safety standards. The position requires strong knowledge of CNC machining processes, programming, tooling, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment and production issues.

• Program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment within the assigned manufacturing cell.
• Support approximately 12 CNC machines and associated secondary operations.
• Work primarily with CNC lathe equipment, including Okuma and Takisawa machines.
• Utilize Fanuc, OSP, and other applicable CNC controls.
• Support CNC mill operations, including Trident equipment.
• Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs to meet production and quality requirements.
• Perform machine setups, tooling changes, offsets, adjustments, and troubleshooting.
• Assist operators with machine issues, process questions, and technical challenges.
• Monitor production processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and machine utilization.
• Work with both exotic and non-exotic metals in the production of bolts, screws, and related fastener products.
• Support secondary operations as needed to maintain production flow.
• Interpret blueprints, work instructions, and manufacturing specifications.
• Perform and support in-process inspections to ensure parts meet dimensional and quality requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and training to CNC operators and other production personnel.
• Communicate production issues, equipment concerns, and quality problems to appropriate leadership.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area while following established company procedures.

Responsibilities

CNC Lead / Programmer

Position Summary

The CNC Lead / Programmer is responsible for supporting daily operations within a CNC manufacturing cell, providing hands-on programming, setup, troubleshooting, and technical support to operators. This role will support a CNC cell of approximately 12 machines, along with related secondary operations, while maintaining quality, productivity, and safety standards. The position requires strong knowledge of CNC machining processes, programming, tooling, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment and production issues.

• Program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment within the assigned manufacturing cell.
• Support approximately 12 CNC machines and associated secondary operations.
• Work primarily with CNC lathe equipment, including Okuma and Takisawa machines.
• Utilize Fanuc, OSP, and other applicable CNC controls.
• Support CNC mill operations, including Trident equipment.
• Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs to meet production and quality requirements.
• Perform machine setups, tooling changes, offsets, adjustments, and troubleshooting.
• Assist operators with machine issues, process questions, and technical challenges.
• Monitor production processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and machine utilization.
• Work with both exotic and non-exotic metals in the production of bolts, screws, and related fastener products.
• Support secondary operations as needed to maintain production flow.
• Interpret blueprints, work instructions, and manufacturing specifications.
• Perform and support in-process inspections to ensure parts meet dimensional and quality requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and training to CNC operators and other production personnel.
• Communicate production issues, equipment concerns, and quality problems to appropriate leadership.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area while following established company procedures.

Compensation

• $35-$45/hr. based on applicable skills and experience

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong CNC machining background with demonstrated programming and setup experience.
• Experience with CNC lathes and mills.
• Experience with Fanuc and OSP controls; Cubic control experience preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting and machine setup skills.
• Experience with Okuma and Takisawa CNC equipment preferred.
• Ability to support multiple machines and production processes simultaneously.
• Experience working with both exotic and non-exotic metals.
• Fastener manufacturing experience, particularly bolts and screws, preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints and understand machining specifications.
• Strong understanding of CNC tooling, offsets, feeds, speeds, and process adjustments.
• Ability to train and provide technical support to operators.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

About Us

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report . Follow: LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube .

Equal Opportunity Employer

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

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