CNC Programmer

American Rheinmetall; Plymouth (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall seeks a CNC Programmer to develop and optimize programs for mills, lathes, and multi‑axis centers, machining steel, aluminum, and ballistic armor. You will ensure tolerances meet military specifications and work with engineering, production, and quality in a high‑security defense setting.

Responsibilities include interpreting blueprints and CAD models, selecting tooling and speeds, performing FAI inspections, maintaining program documentation, and driving continuous

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years CNC programming in precision manufacturing; defense preferred.
• Experience machining hardened steel, aluminum, and armor materials.
• Ability to interpret GD&T, drawings, and military specs.
• Familiarity with CNC equipment (Haas, Mazak, Okuma, or equivalent).
• Background checks and security requirements apply.

Responsibilities

• Develop, write, and optimize CNC programs for mills, lathes, and multi-axis centers.
• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, GD&T, and drawings to plan machining strategies.
• Select tools, speeds, feeds, and processes for precision and efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineers and machinists to improve processes and resolve issues.
• Conduct first article inspections (FAI) and ensure ISO/AS9100 compliance.
• Maintain documentation for CNC programs, setups, and process sheets.
• Optimize cycles for efficiency, tool life, and part quality.
• Ensure parts meet customer and military specs with tight tolerances.

Skills

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Lean manufacturing

Team collaboration

Quality mindset

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Mastercam

GibbsCAM

Siemens NX

Haas

Mazak

Okuma

Job description

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

Job Summary

The CNC Programmer is responsible for developing and optimizing CNC programs to produce precision components made from military-grade armor, steel, and aluminum. This role ensures that machining operations meet strict tolerances, quality requirements, and military/defense specifications. The CNC Programmer will work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to support efficient manufacturing processes in a high-security, defense-related environment.

Essential Functions

• Develop, write, and optimize CNC programs for mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers to manufacture complex parts from steel, aluminum, and ballistic armor materials.
• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, GD&T, and technical drawings to generate accurate machining strategies.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and machining processes to ensure precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with engineers and machinists to refine processes, troubleshoot machining issues, and improve production outcomes.
• Conduct first article inspections (FAI) and ensure compliance with ISO, AS9100, and military quality standards.
• Maintain documentation for CNC programs, setup instructions, and process sheets.
• Optimize machining cycles for efficiency, tool life, and part quality.
• Ensure all parts meet customer and military specifications, with emphasis on tight tolerances and ballistic performance requirements.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective action related to machining nonconformances.
• Stay updated on advancements in CNC programming, tooling, and machining technology.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)

• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (Mastercam, GibbsCAM, Siemens NX, or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of machining techniques for hardened steel, aluminum, and specialty armor materials.
• Ability to interpret GD&T, engineering drawings, and military specifications.
• Familiarity with CNC equipment such as Haas, Mazak, Okuma, or equivalent.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and process optimization.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a high-security, fast-paced environment.
• Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to obtain an overhead crane permit as part of job requirements.

Education

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of CNC programming experience in a precision manufacturing environment; defense, aerospace, or heavy industry preferred.

Background Requirements

Must pass background check, employment verification, reference checks, and controlled substance testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in aerospace/defense machining.
• Strong knowledge of AS9100 and ISO14001 standards.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• While performing duties, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle tools, and reach with arms.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Work is performed in a production environment with exposure to machine operations.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.