Foam CAD Programmer

Pelican; Ontario (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance available

401(k) with immediate company match

Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vis

Health Savings Account Contribution

Wellness Discount Program

Employee discounts on Pelican products

Career growth opportunities across Eng

Work on products trusted by military,,

Job summary

Pelican is seeking a Foam CAD Programmer to translate engineering designs into CNC-ready programs for custom foam components. You will use CAD/CAM software to develop cutting strategies, optimize material usage, and collaborate with Engineering and Operations to deliver high‑quality Pelican foam products.

You will program CNC routers and waterjet machines, develop machine programs, and create 3D exploded views to improve accuracy and efficiency in foam cushion assembly.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years CAM programming in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Solid Edge CAM Pro.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and translate designs into CNC machining programs.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Interpret engineering drawings and break down designs into manufacturable foam components and optimize material usage.
• Program CNC routers and waterjet machines using Solid Edge CAM Pro and develop toolpaths.
• Develop machine programs using 2D CAD/CAM software for foam manufacturing and sub-assembly processes.
• Create detailed 3D exploded assembly views to improve accuracy and efficiency in foam cushion assembly.
• Provide machining processes and cycle-time data to support SAP routings and manufacturing.
• Evaluate machine capabilities and troubleshoot CAM issues to minimize downtime.
• Operate foam manufacturing equipment to support programming, testing, and production.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations to improve manufacturability and streamline processes.
• Develop and improve standard operating procedures and work instructions.
• Evaluate tooling and machining methods to improve quality and productivity.
• Test new cutting strategies to reduce cycle times and material waste.

Skills

CAM programming

CAD/CAM software

Interpreting drawings

MS Office

Strong communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Solid Edge CAM Pro

Job description

We're Hiring: Foam CAD Programmer

Location: Ontario, CA

Company: Pelican Products, Inc.

Who We Are

At Pelican, we engineer products that stand up to the world’s toughest conditions—because the people who rely on us do too. For nearly 50 years, we’ve been a trusted partner for military personnel, first responders, outdoor adventurers, and innovators who push the limits.

With a global presence that includes 11 offices, 4 manufacturing facilities, and 4 custom case centers, we create high-performance protective solutions that ensure our customers can focus on what matters most. Whether it’s transporting critical medical supplies, securing mission-essential equipment, or keeping expedition gear safe, Pelican products are Built to Protect to Equip for the Mission.

At Pelican, your work has a real-world impact. You’ll be part of a team driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that when the mission is critical, failure isn’t an option. If you’re ready to build something that makes a difference, be part of a team that protects what matters most.

What You’ll Do

As a Foam CAD Programmer, you'll turn engineering designs into CNC-ready programs used to manufacture custom foam components. You'll use CAD/CAM software to develop cutting strategies, optimize material usage, and improve production efficiency while partnering with Engineering and Operations to deliver high-quality products.

• Interpret engineering drawings and break down designs into manufacturable foam components while maximizing material usage and simplifying assembly.
• Program CNC routers and waterjet machines using Solid Edge CAM Pro, selecting appropriate toolpaths and cutting strategies.
• Develop machine programs using 2D CAD/CAM software to support foam manufacturing and sub-assembly processes.
• Create detailed 3D exploded assembly views to improve accuracy and efficiency in custom foam cushion assembly.
• Provide machining processes and cycle-time data to support standard manufacturing routings in SAP.
• Evaluate machine capabilities, select appropriate manufacturing methods, and troubleshoot CAM programming issues to minimize downtime.
• Operate foam manufacturing equipment as needed to support programming, testing, and production.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations to improve foam product manufacturability and streamline production processes.
• Develop and improve standard operating procedures and manufacturing work instructions.
• Evaluate tooling, equipment, and machining methods to improve product quality, reliability, and production efficiency.
• Test new cutting strategies to reduce machine cycle times, minimize material waste, and maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Train and support team members on CAM programming standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Follow engineering blueprints, Bills of Materials (BOMs), assembly drawings, and verbal or written instructions.
• Support Pelican's quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years of CAM programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Solid Edge CAM Pro.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and translate designs into CNC machining programs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with foam machining and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with foam assembly.
• At least 3 years of foam CAM programming experience.

What’s In It For You

Join a company that truly values its employees! We offer a relaxed and casual work environment, a strong commitment to giving back to communities, and a focus on employee satisfaction. With regular opportunities to share feedback with leadership and structured performance evaluations, we ensure that your voice is heard and your growth is supported.

• Competitive paid time off plans / Holiday pay / extra vacation purchase opportunities
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• 401(k) with immediate company match
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Health Savings Account Contribution
• Wellness Discount Program
• Global Mental Wellness Program
• Quarterly Employee Celebration Days
• Peer-to-Peer Recognition Program
• Service Recognition Program
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee discounts on Pelican products and gear
• Career growth opportunities across Engineering, Operations, and Product Development
• Work on products trusted by military personnel, first responders, industrial professionals, and explorers around the world
• Collaborate with experienced engineers and manufacturing teams while influencing products from concept through production
• Established global brand offering premium products you'll be proud to support
• And more....