Hands-On CNC Programmer for Precision Manufacturing

Stubborn Mule; Grants Pass (OR); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Dental insurance

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Job summary

Stubborn Mule in Grants Pass, OR is seeking a highly reliable CNC Programmer who can independently program, set up, operate, and maintain CNC equipment in a production environment. You will ensure parts are produced correctly, safely, on time, and to specification.

This hands-on role requires reading blueprints, GD&T, and 3D models, designing fixtures, and developing optimized CNC programs. You must be able to work without close supervision and handle after-hours work when required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Previous CNC programmer/Machine Operator experience.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• Extensive experience with Fusion 360 and Mastercam.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift heavy objects.
• Ability to work after-hours when required.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, operate, and maintain CNC equipment.
• Read blueprints, GD&T, and 3D models before machining.
• Develop fixtures and optimize programs for accuracy and efficiency.
• Run and verify first-article parts and monitor production quality.
• Diagnose issues, perform basic maintenance, and escalate major problems.
• Train new staff on machine operation and safety procedures.

Skills

Blueprint reading

GD&T knowledge

Attention to detail

Independent worker

Deadline-oriented

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Fusion 360

Mastercam

Job description

We are seeking a highly reliable, detail-driven CNC Programmer who can independently program, set up, operate, and maintain CNC equipment in a production manufacturing environment. This role requires strong technical judgment, consistency, and accountability. The CNC Programmer is responsible not only for creating efficient programs, but also for ensuring parts are produced correctly, safely, on time, and to specification—every time.

This is a hands-on role. Candidates who prefer desk-only programming or require close supervision will not be a good fit.

CNC Programmer Responsibilities:

Programming & Setup

• Read, interpret, and verify technical blueprints, GD&T, and 3D models before machining begins.
  
  
• Design and develop machining fixtures required to meet quality, safety, and cycle‑time goals.
  
  
• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs (Fusion 360, Mastercam) for accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency.
  
  
• Develop programs that work correctly with defined setups and fixtures—no trial‑and‑error programming.
  
  
• Select, load, and verify correct cutting tools, offsets, and work coordinates prior to running parts.

Machine Operation

• Load raw materials correctly and safely into CNC machines.
  
  
• Set and verify machine parameters to meet part specifications.
  
  
• Run first‑article parts and verify dimensions before full production.
  
  
• Monitor machines during operation and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality.

Quality Control

• Perform in‑process and final inspections using appropriate measuring tools.
  
  
• Ensure all parts meet print specifications and internal quality standards.
  
  
• Identify non‑conforming parts immediately and take corrective action.

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Diagnose and resolve machining, tooling, and program issues with minimal downtime.
  
  
• Perform routine machine cleaning, maintenance, and basic repairs as required.
  
  
• Escalate major equipment or quality issues promptly and accurately.

Production Support

• Assist with production work, secondary operations, and deburring as required.
  
  
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area.
  
  
• Train new employees on machine operation, safety procedures, and basic program understanding.
  
  
• High school diploma or GED.
• Previous work experience as a CNC programmer/Machine Operator.
• Ability to read and interpret design blueprints.
• Extensive experience with computer modeling software (Fusion 360, Mastercam).
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and stick to a deadline.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift heavy objects.
• Ability to work after-hours when required.

Compensation: $22.50 - $24.50 per hour

Who Are We?

Founded in Y2K, Stubborn Mule is a production machine shop located in the incredible Pacific Northwest. We manufacture a wide range of precision components for clients throughout the aerospace and defense industries, priding ourselves on unsurpassed efficiency, quality, and customer service.

We possess a broad range of modern-day CNC equipment, old-school know-how, and the ability to deliver complex “parts on time” for a demanding customer base. From “delivery of first” article to long-term production, we understand the importance of intelligent engineering and overall cost reduction.

Stubborn Mule is a Type 7 FFL/SOT, with extensive experience with ATF compliance. We manufacture private label components under variance for OEM customers throughout the firearms industry.

Are you legally authorized to work in the US? *

Referral code from a current employee If no code provided, add their name instead.