CNC Programmer

Princeind; Carol Stream (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeind is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer specializing in 3-5 axis programming on Vertical and Horizontal Machining Centers. The role emphasizes hands-on machining knowledge, tool selection, fixturing, and process optimization from concept to production.

The candidate should have CAD/CAM proficiency (SolidWorks/Edgecam/Mastercam), GD&T expertise, and the ability to collaborate with engineers and operators to ensure repeatable, high-quality parts. Illinois site, full-time.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; technical/associate degree a plus.
• 5+ years' CNC programming/ setup experience.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM platforms (SolidWorks/Edgecam/Mastercam).
• Strong knowledge of materials, tooling, and machining parameters.
• Ability to design fixtures and work holding.
• GD&T and tolerancing experience; probing cycles/Macro B.

Responsibilities

• Create, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3-5 axis machines.
• Interpret drawings and 3D models to develop efficient machining strategies.
• Design workholding, fixtures, and tooling concepts.
• Select tooling and parameters based on material and tolerances.
• Support shop floor setups and prove-outs; adjust toolpaths as needed.
• Document set-up sheets and process instructions.
• Collaborate across engineering, production, and quality teams.
• Drive continual process improvements (cycle time, tool life, quality).
• Assist quoting with cycle time estimates.

Skills

Problem-solving

Independent work

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical or associate degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Edgecam

Mastercam

3-5 axis machining

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer who is self-directed and proficient in CAD/CAM, with a solid background in hands‑on machining. The role is focused on programming and optimizing 3-5 axis Vertical Machining Centers and Horizontal Machining Centers.

This individual must demonstrate deep knowledge of machining processes, cutting tools, fixturing strategies, and material machinability, with the ability to take ownership of projects from concept development through full production readiness.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3-5 axis Vertical Machining Centers and Horizontal Machining Centers using CAD/CAM software (SolidWorks, Edgecam, Mastercam).
• Interpret engineering drawings and 3D models to develop efficient machining strategies.
• Design and document work holding and fixturing solutions for repeatable and accurate machining processes.
• Select appropriate cutters, tooling, and machining parameters based on material, tolerance, and machine capability.
• Support setup and prove-out on the shop floor, adjusting toolpaths, feeds, and speeds as needed.
• Utilize probing cycles and Macro B programming to automate setup, verification, and in-process checks.
• Troubleshooting challenges including chatter, dimensional variation, work holding, and tool performance issues.
• Create and maintain setup sheets, tool lists, and process documentation.
• Collaborate across engineering, production, and quality to ensure manufacturability and repeatability.
• Drive process improvements related to cycle time, tool life, quality, and workflow efficiency.
• Assist the Quoting team with accurate cycle time and fixture cost estimates.
• Create detailed setup layouts in SolidWorks, including work holding, datums, tooling clearance, and machine orientation to support accurate and repeatable setups.

REQUIRED SKILLS / ATTRIBUTES

• 3-5 years’ experience programming CNC machining centers.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM platforms such as SolidWorks, Edgecam, or Mastercam.
• Strong knowledge of material machinability, cutting tools, and machining parameters.
• Hands‑on experience with Vertical Machining Centers (3-5 axis) and Horizontal Machining Centers.
• Ability to create fixtures, work holding, and tooling concepts.
• Strong understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerancing.
• Experience with probing cycles and Macro B programming.
• Ability to independently manage projects from concept to production ready.
• Ability to work closely with and train Process Engineers and machine operators.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED certificate. Completion of a technical or associate degree program is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 or more years previous work experience in CNC setup and programming.
• Minimum of 3 or more years of CNC programming.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Regularly required to sit, stand, or walk the duration of the shift (8-10 hours).
• Occasionally required to lift, push, or pull up to 30 lbs.
• Frequently required to sit, stoop, kneel, reach, or bend.
• Regularly exposed to moving machine parts when in plant.

Due to ITAR regulations, only U.S. persons - defined as U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), are eligible for this position.

*We are an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer. Applicants can learn more about Prince's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal "EEO is the Law" poster (https://www.eeoc.gov/employers )

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