CNC Process Engineer: Innovate, Optimize & Solve Machining

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

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