CNC Programmer II

Smartlam-North-America; Columbia Falls (MT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

SmartLam North America is seeking a CNC Programmer in Columbia Falls, MT to translate engineering drawings and CAD/CAM models into CNC programs for wood manufacturing. You will develop, test, and optimize programs to meet design specs, material requirements, tolerances, and quality standards.

Responsibilities include reading blueprints, creating toolpaths, programming CNC routers and machining centers, and collaborating with engineering and production teams to ensure efficient, safe operations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required; technical training, associate degree, or certification in CNC programming, machining, manufacturing technology, or a related field preferred.
• 2-5 years of CNC programming, CNC operation, CNC setup, or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience in wood manufacturing, engineered wood products, panel processing, cabinetry, millwork, or related production environment preferred.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar programming/modeling software.
• Working knowledge of CNC programming concepts, G-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds and speeds, nesting, toolpaths, and machine sequencing.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret technical blueprints, shop drawings, engineering drawings, CAD models, cut lists, and production specifications to determine part requirements, tolerances, machining sequences, and material needs.
• Create, write, edit, and maintain CNC programs using CAD/CAM software and machine-specific programming requirements, including toolpaths, cutting speeds, feed rates, tool selection, offsets, and sequencing.
• Program CNC routers, saws, machining centers, or other CNC equipment used in wood manufacturing to produce panels, components, parts, and assemblies according to required specifications.
• Set up or support setup of CNC machines by loading programs, verifying tooling, confirming material placement, checking fixtures, and running test programs or first articles before full production.
• Optimize CNC programs to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, minimize waste, improve yield, extend tool life, and support consistent production flow.
• Modify existing programs to accommodate design changes, material changes, quality requirements, out-of-square paneling, production improvements, or machine limitations.
• Inspect finished parts and quality control samples using measuring tools and shop drawings to verify accuracy, dimensions, tolerances, edge quality, and overall conformance to specifications.
• Troubleshoot programming, tooling, material, setup, and machine performance issues, and make adjustments as needed to maintain quality and production efficiency.
• Maintain accurate documentation of CNC programs, program revisions, setup notes, tooling requirements, machine parameters, production changes, and quality-related adjustments.
• Collaborate with engineers, production leads, operators, quality personnel, and managers to resolve design, setup, production, and quality concerns.
• Provide technical guidance to CNC operators regarding program operation, setup requirements, tooling, quality expectations, and safe work practices.
• Maintain and inspect tooling and equipment, monitor tooling condition, and communicate needs for replacement tooling, machine service, or purchase requests.
• Follow all workplace safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, machine guarding practices, housekeeping expectations, and company policies while working around CNC equipment.
• Review production information, schedules, job priorities, and system updates in Zoho or other production reporting systems as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by managers.

Skills

CNC programming

CNC operation

CNC setup

G-code

Quality control

Blueprint interpretation

Problem-solving

Communication

Independent work

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Technical training or certification in CNC programming or related field

Tools

Mastercam

Fusion 360

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Professional Columbia Falls Division, Columbia Falls, MT, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1063

Salary Range: $65,000.00 To $85,000.00 Annually

Summary Description

The CNC Programmer is responsible for translating engineering drawings, shop drawings, and CAD/CAM models into accurate CNC machine programs for wood manufacturing operations. This role develops, edits, tests, and optimizes CNC programs to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production of wood products and components. The CNC Programmer works closely with production, engineering, quality, and machine operators to ensure programs meet design specifications, material requirements, tolerances, production schedules, and company quality standards.

Salary based on level of experience: $65,000 - 85,000

Duties and Responsibilities

• Read and interpret technical blueprints, shop drawings, engineering drawings, CAD models, cut lists, and production specifications to determine part requirements, tolerances, machining sequences, and material needs.
• Create, write, edit, and maintain CNC programs using CAD/CAM software and machine-specific programming requirements, including toolpaths, cutting speeds, feed rates, tool selection, offsets, and sequencing.
• Program CNC routers, saws, machining centers, or other CNC equipment used in wood manufacturing to produce panels, components, parts, and assemblies according to required specifications.
• Set up or support setup of CNC machines by loading programs, verifying tooling, confirming material placement, checking fixtures, and running test programs or first articles before full production.
• Optimize CNC programs to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, minimize waste, improve yield, extend tool life, and support consistent production flow.
• Modify existing programs to accommodate design changes, material changes, quality requirements, out-of-square paneling, production improvements, or machine limitations.
• Inspect finished parts and quality control samples using measuring tools and shop drawings to verify accuracy, dimensions, tolerances, edge quality, and overall conformance to specifications.
• Troubleshoot programming, tooling, material, setup, and machine performance issues, and make adjustments as needed to maintain quality and production efficiency.
• Maintain accurate documentation of CNC programs, program revisions, setup notes, tooling requirements, machine parameters, production changes, and quality-related adjustments.
• Collaborate with engineers, production leads, operators, quality personnel, and managers to resolve design, setup, production, and quality concerns.
• Provide technical guidance to CNC operators regarding program operation, setup requirements, tooling, quality expectations, and safe work practices.
• Maintain and inspect tooling and equipment, monitor tooling condition, and communicate needs for replacement tooling, machine service, or purchase requests.
• Follow all workplace safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, machine guarding practices, housekeeping expectations, and company policies while working around CNC equipment.
• Review production information, schedules, job priorities, and system updates in Zoho or other production reporting systems as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by managers.

Required Skills & Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required; technical training, associate degree, or certification in CNC programming, machining, manufacturing technology, or a related field preferred.
• 2-5 years of CNC programming, CNC operation, CNC setup, or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience in wood manufacturing, engineered wood products, panel processing, cabinetry, millwork, or related production environment preferred.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar programming/modeling software.
• Working knowledge of CNC programming concepts, G-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds and speeds, nesting, toolpaths, and machine sequencing.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, engineering drawings, CAD models, cut lists, and production specifications.
• Strong understanding of quality control processes, inspection methods, tolerances, and precision measuring tools.
• Computer proficient in MS 365 Suite, Zoho, and other production reporting or documentation systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot CNC programming, tooling, setup, and machine performance issues.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to producing precise, high-quality work.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and support production deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in a manufacturing setting.
• Self-motivated, reliable, and capable of operating with minimal supervision.
• Reliable individual with excellent time and attendance record.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Equal Employment Opportunity:SmartLam North America is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws regarding discrimination. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, disability, age, genetic information, or any other protected status.

Americans with Disabilities:Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.