CNC Machining Process Engineer

Protocase; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Protocase Inc. in Wilmington, NC is seeking a CNC Machining Process Engineer to solve manufacturing challenges, develop new machining processes, and drive improvements across our operations.

You will lead tooling evaluations, process development initiatives, and machining experiments to improve quality, reduce cycle times, and expand capabilities. The role collaborates with machinists, programmers, and engineers on-site, applying hands-on testing and data-driven decisions to shape Protocase's

Qualifications

• Machining diploma, trade certification, Engineering Technology diploma, or equivalent hands‑on experience.
• Minimum 3 years of CNC machining experience.
• Strong experience troubleshooting machining processes and identifying root causes.
• Experience independently solving complex machining challenges.
• Experience working with engineering, programming, or manufacturing teams to implement process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Investigate root causes of machining challenges and develop solutions to improve tooling, fixturing, machine performance, quality, and cycle times.
• Lead machining improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Develop, test, and validate new machining methods for challenging or unique customer parts.
• Identify inefficiencies in machining processes and develop practical, scalable solutions.
• Document experiments, results, and lessons learned to strengthen organizational knowledge.
• Operate CNC mills (including 5-axis machines) to test and validate new ideas.

Skills

CNC machining

5-axis milling

G-code programming

CAM software

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Collaboration

Hands-on testing

Education

Machining diploma

Trade certification

Engineering Technology diploma

Tools

CAM software

Job description

Position Information

Position Title: CNC Machining Process Engineer

Department: Research & Development

Company: Protocase Inc.

Location: Wilmington, North Carolina

Work Arrangement: On-site

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Shift: Day Shift

Level: Mid-Level (Expected Experience: 3+ Years)

Full Transparency: We Work a Little Differently Around Here.

This isn't just another job where you punch in and punch out. We come to work every day because we strive to earn a living in a meaningful way. Too many people exist without finding joy or purpose in their work, and we believe that’s just wrong. After all, we spend at least a third of our lives working—so why not create workplaces where people want to come to work in the morning and feel good when they leave at the end of the day?

At Protocase, your ideas don't just matter—they shape our future. We thrive on collaboration and innovation, where every voice is heard, valued, and makes a real impact. Does this sound like something you'd want to be a part of and help grow?

Protocase specializes in custom sheet metal enclosures, panels, and parts for engineers and innovators worldwide, built with unmatched speed and quality. We take the impossible and make it possible for some of the brightest minds on the planet.

Learn more about us: https://workdifferently.info/

About the Role

This is not a traditional CNC machining position.

While you'll spend time operating CNC mills and machining parts, your primary responsibility will be to solve manufacturing problems, develop new machining processes, troubleshoot complex production challenges, and improve how we machine parts across the company.

You'll work on special projects, process development initiatives, tooling evaluations, and machining experiments that help us improve quality, reduce cycle times, increase throughput, and expand our manufacturing capabilities. If you're someone who enjoys figuring out why something isn't working, testing solutions, and turning discoveries into repeatable processes, this role was built for you.

Working alongside machinists, programmers, engineers, and production leaders, you'll have the opportunity to influence how machining is performed across our entire operation while helping shape the future of manufacturing at Protocase.

What You'll Do

• Investigate root causes of machining challenges and develop solutions to improve tooling, fixturing, machine performance, quality, and cycle times.
• Investigate recurring production issues and implement practical, long-term corrective actions.
• Lead machining improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Support production teams by providing technical expertise and resolving machining-related issues.
• Develop, test, and validate new machining methods for challenging or unique customer parts.
• Identify inefficiencies in machining processes and develop practical, scalable solutions.
• Design and execute machining experiments to evaluate tooling, machining strategies, programming approaches, and process improvements.
• Operate CNC mills (including 5-axis machines) to test and validate new ideas in a hands‑on environment.
• Analyze machining outcomes and production data to identify root causes and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and improve machining standards, best practices, and process guidelines used across the organization.
• Collaborate with machinists, programmers, engineers, and leadership to implement process improvements.
• Translate findings into clear, repeatable processes that improve quality, efficiency, and consistency.
• Balance precision, speed, manufacturability, and practicality when developing machining solutions.
• Document experiments, results, and lessons learned to strengthen organizational knowledge and support continuous improvement.

What You Need (Required Qualifications)

Education

• Machining diploma, trade certification, Engineering Technology diploma, or equivalent hands‑on experience.

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of CNC machining experience.
• Strong experience troubleshooting machining processes and identifying root causes.
• Experience improving machining processes, tooling strategies, cycle times, quality, or productivity.
• Experience independently solving complex machining challenges.
• Experience working with engineering, programming, or manufacturing teams to implement process improvements.

Technical Skills

• Strong proficiency in CNC machining, including 5-axis milling.
• Experience with G‑code programming and CAM software.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to evaluate machining data and make evidence‑based decisions.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a passion for innovation.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
• Hands‑on approach with the ability to test and validate ideas on the shop floor.

Certifications / Licenses

• None required.

Other Requirements

• Must be legally eligible to work in USA.
• Ability to work on‑site in Wilmington, North Carolina.

What Would Be Considered an Asset (Nice‑to‑Have Qualifications)

• Experience operating CNC lathes and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
• Experience in aerospace, medical device manufacturing, or other precision manufacturing industries.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience designing, executing, and documenting machining trials or process improvement initiatives.
• Experience applying structured problem‑solving methodologies such as Six Sigma, DMAIC, or Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Experience optimizing tooling strategies, cutting parameters, and machining workflows.

What Success Looks Like

Within your first year, you will:

• Develop and implement machining process improvements that reduce cycle times, improve quality, and increase manufacturing efficiency.
• Become a trusted technical resource for machinists, programmers, and engineering teams.
• Successfully troubleshoot complex machining issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Develop new machining strategies that expand Protocase's manufacturing capabilities.
• Establish repeatable machining standards and best practices that improve consistency across the organization.
• Build strong relationships across R&D, Production, Programming, and Engineering while contributing to a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Why Us?

At Protocase, we believe in recognizing and rewarding hard work and dedication.

Our starting annual total compensation package—including base salary and performance incentives—ranges from $70,000 to $90,000 USD, depending on experience.

n addition, you can look forward to:

Training & Growth: Leadership development, executive coaching, and opportunities to influence the strategic direction of two rapidly growing technology companies.

Comprehensive Health Care: Medical, Dental, Life Insurance, and Group Insurance available after two months of full‑time employment.

Vacation: Start with two weeks of paid vacation, increasing to three weeks after three years and four weeks after five years.

Community Discounts: Access exclusive deals at local businesses.

Wellness Support: Participate in wellness initiatives and enjoy access to a gym membership.

Social Events: Join a growing team that values collaboration, celebrates success, and enjoys regular team lunches and company events.

Wilmington Lifestyle: Embrace coastal living with stunning beaches, a vibrant downtown, rich culture, and a thriving innovation community.

If you're energized by solving complex machining challenges, experimenting with new ideas, and helping shape the future of manufacturing, we'd love to hear from you.