CNC Machinist-Programmer

United Precision; Washougal (WA); On-site; USD 97,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with matching

Paid time off

Employee Assistance Program

Flexible spending accounts

Short/Long-term disability

Job summary

United Precision Corp. (UPC) in Washougal, WA, seeks a CNC Machinist-Programmer for a 4x10 shift. The role programs and operates 3- and 5-axis CNC machines, using CAM software to produce precise components per drawings and models.

You will set up machines, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate cross-functionally to optimize processes and quality. Ideal candidates have extensive CNC programming experience, strong understanding of GD&T, and a focus on detail and safety.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required with 8+ years hands-on machining experience.
• 4+ years CNC programming experience with Professional CAM software.
• Advanced programming for 3- and 5-axis milling and turret lathes.
• Experience interpreting drawings, GD&T, and ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Ability to develop tooling packages and setup documentation.
• Experience with stainless steel, titanium, and nickel-based alloys.

Responsibilities

• Program and operate 3- and 5-axis CNC machines to produce components per specs.
• Set up CNCs, tooling, and work-holding devices.
• Interpret blueprints and specifications to develop machining processes and tool paths.
• Collaborate with internal teams for process improvements.
• Troubleshoot programming and machining issues to ensure quality.

Skills

Machining principles

Reading engineering drawings / GD&T

CNC CAM programming

3- and 5-axis machining

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree or technical education in engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

SAP / ERP–MRP systems

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: 4100 S GRANT ST - WASHOUGAL, WA 98671, Salary Range: $96,768.00 - $120,960.00 Salary/year, CNC MACHINIST-PROGRAMMER

Job Title: CNC Machinist-Programmer | Department: Manufacturing |Reports to: Production Manager| FLSA Status: Exempt

At United Precision Corporation (UPC), we are dedicated to fostering an environment where all team members can perform to the best of their abilities and realize their true potential. Every team member plays an essential role in our operations, and we value the abilities, experience, and background they bring to UPC. We recognize that only through the services our team members provide can we continuously improve, grow, and create new opportunities in the years to come.

JOB SUMMARY

The CNC Machinist-Programmer position is a 4X10 shift located at our Washougal, Washington facility. This position is responsible for programming and operating 3- and 5-axis CNC machines to produce components according to specifications. This position requires expertise in CAM software and a strong understanding of machining. The ideal candidate has excellent technical skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal departments. The programmer develops, edits, or modifies operation sequences based on manufacturing sketches, blueprints, schematics, or models. The programmer sets up CNCs for production runs to meet quality and productivity standards, troubleshoots, and resolves errors or discrepancies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Utilize CAM software to create and optimize CNC programs for 3 and 5-axis milling and turning.
• Set up CNC machines and tooling according to program specifications, including cutting tools, fixtures, and work-holding devices.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to develop machining processes and tool paths that meet quality and production requirements.
• Collaborate with internal teams for process improvements, cost reduction, and efficiencies.
• Conduct tooling and material evaluations to optimize machining processes and achieve desired outcomes.
• Troubleshoot programming and machining issues to ensure the quality and accuracy of finished components.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust as needed to maintain dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
• Document and maintain CNC programs, tooling configurations, and machining parameters for future reference.
• Adhere to safety protocols and best practices to ensure a safe working environment for all team members.
• Provide training/support for machine operators and other personnel as needed to facilitate effective CNC machining operations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: WHAT YOU BRING TO UPC

• Strong understanding of machining principles, tool selection, speeds and feeds, and machining strategies.
• Experience with a variety of CNC machines, including 3- and 5-axis mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T symbols.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot machining issues effectively.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and accuracy in all aspects of work.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Required

• High School Diploma or GED
• 8 years or more of hands‑on machining experience
• 4 years or more of CNC programming experience using Professional CAM software
• Advanced experience programming 3- and 5-axis milling machines and turret lathes
• Experience developing machining sequences, selecting cutting tools, and establishing machining parameters.
• Experience implementing process improvements, reducing machining cycle times, and improving manufacturing efficiency
• Ability to develop tooling packages, work‑holding solutions, and detailed CMC setup documentation
• Experience with machining challenging materials, including stainless steel, titanium, and nickel‑based alloys such as Inconel and Monel
• Advanced blueprint reaching skills, including GD&T, per applicable ASME Y14.5 standards

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree or technical education in engineering, manufacturing technology, or related
• Experience with SolidWorks for 3D modeling, fixture design, and manufacturing support
• Experience programming multi-axis CNC lathes with live tooling capabilities and Swiss-style lathes
• SAP or other ERP/MRP systems experience
• AS9100 Aerospace or Defense manufacturing environment experience
• Tooling and fixture design
• Vertical Turning Lathe experience
• Outside processing knowledge, including heat treatment, plating, coating, EDM, grinding, etc.

BENEFITS

• Health insurance benefit options, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid basic group life insurance and short‑term disability coverage
• Voluntary options for additional group life insurance, long‑term disability, hospital confinement, group accident, and specified disease insurance
• Flexible spending and dependent care accounts
• 401(k) retirement plan with Safe Harbor matching
• Paid time off, including sick leave, holidays, vacation, and a birthday day
• An Employee Assistance Program offering confidential professional counseling, financial, and legal support at no cost to Team Members and their immediate family members

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
• Must be able to operate a computer and other office productivity machinery such as calculators, copy machines, and printers.
• Must be able to operate manufacturing and engineering machinery such as lapping, CNC lathe, and milling machines, etc.
• Occasionally positions self to maintain manufacturing and engineering machinery, including under workstations.
• Frequently move raw and treated materials weighing up to 50 pounds across the manufacturing facility for various purposes, as needed.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is generally performed in an office/warehouse environment with frequent interruptions and irregular work schedules. No special coordination beyond those used for normal mobility, handling of everyday objects and materials, and use of office equipment is necessary to perform the job satisfactorily.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are committed to a safe, drug-free work environment, and pre-employment drug screening is required.

Additionally, we are an ITAR (International Traffic in Arms) compliant facility; as such, access to our facility (and employment) is restricted under ITAR regulations. Applicants receiving a conditional offer of employment are required to provide information to determine eligibility as defined by ITAR requirements. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e., 'Green Card Holder'), or a "protected person" under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

COVID-19 considerations: We have implemented various protocols to maintain the safety and well-being of our team members.

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

The above statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. I fully understand the contents of this job description, have had the opportunity to ask questions regarding this job description, and have had the job duties, physical requirements, and working conditions explained to me. I understand United Precision Corp. is an equal-opportunity employer and that this job description is not a contract of employment. Its purpose is to define, though not exhaustively, the essential functions of the job. Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.