CNC/NC Programmer

Axius Group LLC; Saint Joseph (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Van-Am Tool & Engineering seeks a skilled CNC Programmer to translate engineering blueprints into precise machine instructions for lathes, mills, and grinders on our Missouri shop floor. You will review 3D CAD models, optimize tooling and cutting parameters, run simulations, and prepare setup sheets to support efficient manufacturing processes.

Collaborating with engineering, production, and quality teams, you will maintain tolerances, improve setup times, and ensure specifications are met

Qualifications

• Review 3D CAD models and engineering drawings to develop CNC programs.
• Write, modify, and optimize CNC programs for lathes, mills, grinders and other equipment.
• Determine machining sequences, cutting paths, tooling requirements, speeds, feeds, tolerances, and material requirements.
• Prepare setup sheets, tooling lists, and production instructions to support efficient manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Review 3D CAD models and drawings to develop CNC programs.
• Write and optimize CNC programs for lathes, mills, grinders, and other machinery.
• Select tooling, plan cutting paths, speeds, feeds, and tolerances for each job.
• Run simulations and prove-outs to validate programs and adjust as needed.
• Prepare setup sheets and production instructions for manufacturing.
• Collaborate with engineering, machinists, and quality teams to resolve issues and improve processes.

Skills

CNC programming

CAD/CAM software

GD&T

Blueprint interpretation

Education

Associate’s degree in CNC Programming or Manufacturing Technology

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering (preferred)

Tools

SolidWorks

CAMWorks

Creo

ProE

CATIA

PTC Creo

Job description

SUMMARYThe CNC Programmer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and optimizing CNC programs to support Van-Am Tool & Engineering’s machining operations. This position translates engineering blueprints and 3D CAD designs into precise machine instructions, selects appropriate tooling, validates programs through simulation and prove-out, and partners with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve efficiency, maintain specification compliance, and support continuous improvement initiatives.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSReview 3D CAD models and engineering drawings to develop CNC programs using CAD/CAM softwareWrite, modify, and optimize CNC programs for lathes, mills, grinders, and other machining equipmentDetermine machining sequences, cutting paths, tooling requirements, speeds, feeds, tolerances, and material requirements for each jobConduct program simulations and machine prove-outs to validate CNC programs and make required adjustmentsPrepare setup sheets, tooling lists, workholding documentation, and production instructions to support efficient manufacturingSupport Sales and Engineering with new part quotations by estimating raw material requirements, machining cycle times, tooling needs, and fixturing packagesCollaborate with engineers, machinists, and quality personnel to resolve programming, setup, and production issuesContinuously improve setup times, tooling utilization, machining efficiency, and overall process performanceMaintain CNC programs, program libraries, setup documentation, and revision-controlled recordsEnsure compliance with company policies, safety requirements, customer specifications, and applicable Quality Management System requirementsProvide training and technical support to machinists and other staff on CNC programming practicesKNOWLEDGEStrong knowledge of CNC programming, machining principles, tooling selection, cutting paths, and production setup requirementsProficiency with CAD/CAM software and platforms including SolidWorks, CAMWorks, Creo, ProE, CATIA, and PTC Creo; SolidWorks and CAMWorks preferredWorking knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, algebra, trigonometry, tolerances, and material requirementsFamiliarity with ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality standards preferredExperience with advanced CAM systems, multi-axis machining, aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments preferredCOMPETENCIESStrong technical problem-solving and analytical thinkingHigh attention to detail in programming, documentation, calculations, and quality complianceClear and professional communication with engineering, production, quality, and sales teamsAbility to collaborate across departments to resolve programming and production challengesCommitment to continuous improvement, safety, quality, and machining efficiencyAbility to manage shifting priorities, strict deadlines, and fast-paced manufacturing demandsEXPERIENCE AND EDUCATIONAssociate’s degree in CNC Programming, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required; equivalent work experience may be consideredMinimum of three years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing or machining environment requiredExperience working with aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing quality standards preferredBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field preferredNo certifications requiredWORKING CONDITIONSProlonged periods of sitting and working at a computerOccasional walking, standing, and moving between engineering, inspection, and production areasAbility to lift up to 25 pounds as neededVisual acuity required for reading blueprints, operating computer software, reviewing machining documentation, and inspecting componentsWork is primarily performed in an office setting with regular visits to the manufacturing floorExposure to machining environments, including noise, vibration, moving equipment, and production activityPersonal protective equipment such as safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, gloves, and hearing protection may be required in production areasWORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCEMust be legally authorized to work in the United StatesIf a security clearance is required:Candidate must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearance requirementsSuccessful candidates must be able to obtain required Program Access approval, if applicable