CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist 1st Shift

Primus Aerospace; Reisterstown, Northern (MD, KY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO & Holidays

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Plan

Disability (Short/Long-term)

Job summary

Primus Aerospace is seeking a skilled CNC Programmer/Setup Machinist in Maryland to program, set up, and prove out CNC machining processes for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis mills and lathes. You will interpret drawings, select tooling, and develop efficient processes for NPI and repeat production.

The role requires five+ years of combined CNC programming and setup experience, proficiency with Mastercam/NX, and familiarity with GD&T and multi-axis work.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of combined CNC programming and setup experience (mills and/or lathes).
• Strong proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, NX, or similar).
• Experience with multi-axis machining (3,4,5-axis).
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and machining mathematics.
• Proven ability to perform full machine setups and prove-out new jobs.
• Experience with tight-tolerance components, preferably in aerospace or similar industries.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis mills and CNC lathes using CAM software Mastercam or NX.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and specifications to create accurate and efficient machining processes.
• Select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies to support optimal cycle times and part quality.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) by developing and validating initial machining processes.
• Perform complete machine setups including tooling, fixturing, offsets, and program verification.
• Run and validate first‑piece parts to ensure conformance to specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to setup, tooling, programs, and machine performance.
• Establish stable, repeatable setups and clear instructions for operators.
• Collaborate with machinists, operators, and cross‑functional teams to ensure efficient production flow.
• Monitor and improve cycle times, tool life, and overall process efficiency.
• Maintain and update CNC programs, setup sheets, and work instructions.
• Identify and implement process improvements including tooling, fixturing, and programming enhancements.
• Ensure all parts meet quality standards and customer requirements, including GD&T specifications.
• Validate part quality through inspection processes and documentation (first article, in-process checks).
• Maintain compliance with all safety, quality, and operational procedures.
• Support 5S and overall shop organization standards.

Skills

CNC programming

Setup experience

GD&T

Blueprint reading

Machining mathematics

Tools

Mastercam

NX

Haas

Mazak

DMG Mori

Okuma

Job description

Job Description

Primus Aerospace is a leading manufacturing partner to aerospace, defense, and space OEMs and Tier I suppliers. The company specializes in producing high-tolerance, complex geometry components from standard and exotic metals, supporting mission‑critical civilian and defense programs.

Job Purpose

The CNC Programmer / Setup Machinist is responsible for programming, setting up, and proving out CNC machining processes to ensure efficient, high-quality production. This role combines CAM programming with hands‑on machine setup and first‑piece validation, supporting both new and repeat production work.

First Shift: Mon-Fri 7:00AM - 3:30PM

Pay Rate: $40-$45

Key Responsibilities

Programming & Process Development

• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for 3, 4, and 5-axis mills and CNC lathes using CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, NX, or similar)
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and specifications to create accurate and efficient machining processes
• Select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies to support optimal cycle times and part quality
• Support new product introduction (NPI) by developing and validating initial machining processes

Setup & Prove-Out

• Perform complete machine setups including tooling, fixturing, offsets, and program verification
• Run and validate first‑piece parts to ensure conformance to specifications
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to setup, tooling, programs, and machine performance
• Establish stable, repeatable setups and clear instructions for operators

Production Support & Continuous Improvement

• Collaborate with machinists, operators, and cross‑functional teams to ensure efficient production flow
• Monitor and improve cycle times, tool life, and overall process efficiency
• Maintain and update CNC programs, setup sheets, and work instructions

• Identify and implement process improvements including tooling, fixturing, and programming enhancements

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all parts meet quality standards and customer requirements, including GD&T specifications
• Validate part quality through inspection processes and documentation (e.g., first article, in‑process checks)
• Maintain compliance with all safety, quality, and operational procedures
• Support 5S and overall shop organization standards

Requirements

• Minimum of five (5) years of combined CNC programming and setup experience (mills and/or lathes)
• Strong proficiency with CAM software (Mastercam, NX, or similar)
• Experience with multi‑axis machining (3, 4, and/or 5‑axis)
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and machining mathematics
• Proven ability to perform full machine setups and prove‑out new jobs
• Experience working with tight‑tolerance components, preferably in aerospace or similar industries
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment
• Strong work ethic and commitment to quality and continuous improvement

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with exotic materials (e.g., titanium, tungsten)
• Experience with high‑mix / low‑volume production environments
• Familiarity with multiple machine platforms (Haas, Mazak, DMG Mori, Okuma, etc.)

To adhere to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen.

Our work environment is fast‑paced and professional while providing continued growth fostered by our commitment to teamwork. We offer comprehensive benefits including PTO, paid holidays, medical, dental and vision insurance, 401K, long‑term and short‑term disability.

At Primus Aerospace, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports, respects, and celebrates all individuals.

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