CNC Lead Programmer: Optimize a 12‑Machine Cell On‑Site

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

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace Inc. in Brea, CA is seeking a CNC Lead / Programmer to join our on-site manufacturing cell. You will program, set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment across a team of about 12 machines, primarily lathes and mills, with Fanuc and OSP controls.

You will interpret blueprints, optimize processes, train operators, and ensure quality, safety, and productivity. Compensation is $35-$45/hr based on skills and experience.

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.
• 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, 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

CNC machining

Programming

Setup

Troubleshooting

Reading blueprints

Metalworking knowledge

Training others

Communication

Tools

Fanuc controls

OSP controls

Okuma

Takisawa

Job description

• Locations 630 E Lambert Rd., Brea, CA, 92821, US (On-site)
• Job Schedule Full time
• Export-Controlled Data This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items

Responsibilities

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

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

Compensation and Benefits:

If a pay range is identified for this job, it is based on a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. Actual compensation is subject to variation due to factors such as education, experience, skillset, market/business considerations, and/or location.

Howmet Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package to support the health, financial well-being, and professional growth of our employees. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits coverage, including FSA and HSA account options
• Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans offering employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution
• Paid holidays and vacation time (eligibility, accrual, and usage are discretionary and governed by applicable policies)
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage plans
• Optional coverage plans for auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance
• Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Our Story:

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.