CNC Process Engineer

Focus; Fort Smith (AR); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Focus is seeking a skilled CNC Process Engineer to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot precision CNC machining operations within our Engineering / Manufacturing departments. The role serves as the technical bridge between product design and production, refining tooling, programming, and workflows to maximize efficiency, reduce cycle times, and ensure high-quality output.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering with 3–5 years of hands-on CNC

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering; 3–5 years CNC experience.
• Proven ability to design and optimize multi-axis CNC processes.
• Lean/Six Sigma experience and SPC knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine multi-axis CNC machining processes to improve efficiency.
• Create CNC programs using G-code and CAD/CAM tools; design fixtures and workholding.
• Test and approve processes with Quality; apply SPC and root cause analysis.
• Document SOPs and PFMEA; apply Lean methods to reduce bottlenecks.

Skills

CNC programming

GD&T

Fixture design

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Tooling selection

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Job description

CNC Process Engineer

Position: CNC Process Engineer

Department: Engineering / Manufacturing

Reports To: Engineering Manager

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: On-site (Manufacturing / Production Facility)

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled CNC Process Engineer to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot precision CNC machining operations. Serving as the primary technical bridge between product design and production, this role focuses on refining tooling, programming, and manufacturing workflows to maximize operational efficiency, minimize cycle times, and ensure exceptional product quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Development & Optimization:
  • Design, implement, and continually refine multi-axis CNC machining processes.
  • Select optimal cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and machining parameters.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times, scrap, and rework.
• Programming & Tooling:
  • Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs using G-code and advanced CAD/CAM software.
  • Design custom workholding, fixtures, and tool setups for high-precision operations.
  • Develop standardized, step-by-step process plans and work instructions for machine operators.
• Quality & Compliance:
  • Partner with Quality Control to execute first-piece inspections and process approvals.
  • Utilize Statistical Process Control (SPC) and root cause analysis to resolve dimensional non-conformances.
  • Maintain compliance with relevant industry safety regulations and quality frameworks.
• Troubleshooting & Technical Support:
  • Diagnose complex machining issues on the shop floor and rapidly deploy corrective actions.
  • Provide continuous technical guidance and hands-on training to operators and production staff.
• Documentation & Lean Standardization:
  • Author and maintain engineering documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA).
  • Apply Lean Manufacturing principles to eliminate workflow bottlenecks and optimize shop floor layout.
  • Analyze operational data to track key performance indicators (KPIs) like overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and process capability.

Skills & Qualifications

• Technical Expertise:
  • Deep understanding of CNC programming, advanced machining techniques, and CAD/CAM software platforms.
  • Strong mastery of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) principles.
  • Proven background in custom fixture design, workholding supports, and tool selection.
  • Knowledge of material properties and machinability across various substrates (metals, composites, plastics).
• Problem-Solving & Methodology:
  • Analytical approach to processing complex production data and eliminating operational inefficiencies.
  • Practical experience applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field; 3–5 years of hands-on experience in CNC machining or process engineering.
  • Equivalent combination of formal technical certifications and extensive hands-on experience will also be considered.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Role operates in both an active manufacturing facility and a professional engineering office setting.
• Requires frequent collaboration on the plant floor with operators, quality personnel, and cross-functional teams.
• Must be comfortable working in production environments with noise, temperature variations, and mild confined spaces.
• Ability to manually lift and maneuver equipment or tooling up to 40 lbs occasionally.