CNC Programmer

LAIKA; Hillsboro (OR); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

LAIKA is seeking a proficient CNC Programmer to support small-batch prototype manufacturing across multiple studio departments. The role involves programming, setup, proving out, and inspection of precision parts, with emphasis on 3-axis milling and detailed GD&T criteria.

You will create and edit G-code, select tooling, and collaborate with artists and engineers to ensure parts meet tight tolerances. On-site Hillsboro, OR environment supports hands-on, independent work after LAIKA training.

Qualifications

• 3+ years CNC programming experience required.
• Experience programming, setting up, proving out, and operating 3-axis CNC mills.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, CAD models, and GD&T.
• Proficiency with G-code and macro variables.

Responsibilities

• Review models, drawings, and part requirements to determine machining approach, tooling, workholding, setup sequence, and inspection strategy.
• Create CNC programs for 3-axis milling using ESPRIT EDGE to machine small-batch precision parts from various materials.
• Set up, prove out, operate, and troubleshoot CNC programs on Haas and Makino machines.
• Transfer setup work to CNC Operator with clear process notes and inspection expectations.
• Use probing, simulation, and inspection to verify programs before prove-out.
• Read drawings, make edits to G-code, and use macro variables as needed.

Skills

CNC programming

3-axis milling

G-code editing

Haas control

GD&T reading

Inspection tools

Tools

ESPRIT EDGE

Haas VF1

Makino U3

Renishaw probing

Autodesk Inventor

Job description

GeneralSummary

LAIKA isseekingaproficient andhighly independent CNC Programmer to support CNC manufacturing for multiple studio departments. This roleis responsible forprogramming, setting up,proving out,operating, and inspecting small-batchprototypeprecision parts.

Job Functions

• Review models, drawings, and part requirements todeterminemachining approach, tooling,workholding, setup sequence, and inspection strategyfor machined parts used throughoutthe studio.
• Create CNC programs for 3-axis milling using ESPRIT EDGEtomachine small-batch precision parts from materials including annealed tool steels, aluminum, bronze, and plastics.
• Set up, prove out, operate, and troubleshoot CNC programs on a Haas VF1 vertical mill, Makino U3 Wire EDM, and Babin-Hardinge CNC lathe.
• Transferappropriate setupand operation work to a CNC Operator by providing clear setup direction, process notes, inspection expectations, and troubleshooting support.
• Use simulation, probing, inspection, and machining judgment to verify programs before and during prove-out.
• Select appropriate cuttingtools, holders, fixtures,workholdingmethods, speeds, feeds, and machining strategies.
• Inspect parts using appropriate inspectiontools including micrometers, calipers, pin gauges, height gauges, indicators, optical comparator, and microscope inspection methods.
• Read and interpret drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements, andread and edit G-code as needed including programs using macro variables.
• Use Renishaw probing or similar probing methods for setup, verification, and process support.
• Perform occasional CAD work in Autodesk Inventor to support fixture design and related machining needs.
• Troubleshoot machining, workholding, tooling, tolerance, finish, and repeatability issues, andperform occasional manual machining as needed.
• Contribute to an evolving system of process notes, setup practices, tooling standards, and CAM/machine workflows.
• Communicate clearly with mechanicalfabrication leadership and internal customersregardingpart requirements, technical concerns, schedule impacts, and process risks.
• Work effectively with artists, engineers, designers, and other studio staff in a nontraditional CNC manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ yearsofCNC programming experience.
• Experience programming, setting up, proving out, and operating 3-axis CNC mills.
• Ability to independently create a process plan, select tooling and workholding, program, simulate, set up, prove out, inspect, and troubleshoot from a model or drawing.
• Experience machining small or highly detailed partsincludingproducing tight-tolerance precisioncomponents,commonly to±.001 in.
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, toolholders, workholding, speeds, and feeds.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements.
• Hands-on inspection experience using precision inspection tools.
• Experience reading and editing G-code.
• Experience working with macro variables.
• Strong troubleshooting skills related to machining, setup, tooling, finish, tolerance, and repeatability.
• Ability to work independently with minimal direction after LAIKA-specific training.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to identify and resolve technical concerns early.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ESPRIT, ESPRIT EDGE, or similar CAM software.
• Experience with Haas CNC controls or Haas vertical mills.
• Experience with Renishaw probing or similar CNC probing systems.
• Wire EDM experience.
• CNC lathe experience.
• CAD experience, especially Autodesk Inventor.
• Experience supporting low-volume production or prototype-to-small-batch manufacturing.
• Experience providing technical direction, setup guidance, and process support to CNC operators or junior machinists.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of thoserequiredto perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made as required by applicable law.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee maybe requiredto walk, stand, sit, use hands tooperatemechanical equipment,reach withhands and arms, balance, stoop, talk, and hear both in person and by telephone. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee works under typical shop conditions around CNC equipment, cutting tools, inspection equipment, small parts, coolant, oil, and tumbling equipment, with variable indoor temperatures. The noise level is usually moderate.

Location

On-site in Hillsboro, OR

Salary

Salaryiscommensuratewith skills and experience.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Please review our EMPLOYMENT DISCLAIMER and MATERIALS SUBMISSION AGREEMENT.