Lead CNC Programmer

Mason; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Mason is seeking a Lead CNC Programmer in Chicago, Illinois. This role involves developing, optimizing, and standardizing CNC programs for multi-axis machining while leading a team. The position is key to driving process improvement and efficiency for aerospace production.

The ideal candidate will have extensive Mastercam programming experience, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of CNC programming and machining processes.

Qualifications

• 10+ years Mastercam programming preferred. Solid Modeling: 3 years required.
• 3+ years leadership or mentoring experience.
• Aerospace/AS9100 experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor CNC Programmers and Machinists.
• Establish programming standards and best practices.
• Review and approve CNC programs prior to production release.

Skills

Mastercam programming

Solid Modeling

Problem-solving skills

CNC G-codes and M-codes knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SolidWorks

Cimco editor

HAAS and Fanuc controls

Vericut

Job description

Summary

The Lead CNC Programmer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and standardizing CNC programs for multi‑axis machining operations while providing technical leadership to programmers and machinists. This position drives continuous improvement, process optimization, tooling strategy, fixture design, and manufacturing efficiency to support aerospace and defense production requirements. The Lead CNC Programmer serves as the primary technical resource for CNC programming and machining processes.

Position Duties

• Lead and mentor CNC Programmers and Machinists.
• Establish programming standards and best practices.
• Review and approve CNC programs prior to production release.
• Lead process improvement projects focused on cycle time reduction and setup reduction.
• Develop and maintain tooling, fixture, and programming standards.
• Support capacity planning and machining strategy.
• Participate in DFM reviews with Engineering.
• Lead root cause investigations related to machining issues.
• Support implementation of automation, probing, and lights‑out machining.
• Coordinate programming priorities and workload across the department.
• Drive setup reduction and cycle time improvements.
• Train programmers on Mastercam and machining strategies.
• Support machine utilization and capacity improvement initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• 10+ years Mastercam programming preferred. Solid Modeling: 3 years (Required)
• 3+ years leadership or mentoring experience.
• Aerospace/AS9100 experience preferred.
• Vericut experience preferred.
• Use of SolidWorks and Cimco editor is a plus.
• Able to troubleshoot programming errors and make CNC’s run more efficiently.
• Knowledge of horizontal and vertical multi‑axis mills.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to read blueprints and advanced GD&T knowledge.
• Good machining practice and knowledge of speeds and feeds.
• Cutting technique for stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials required.
• Experience working with castings is a plus.
• Must have knowledge of CNC G‑codes and M‑codes.
• Knowledge of Renishaw probing use.
• Knowledge of HAAS and Fanuc controls.
• General computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Strong shop math; analytic geometry, algebra, and trigonometry.
• High school diploma or GED.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate machinery.
• Regularly perform repetitive tasks.
• Regularly possess manual dexterity to put parts or pieces together quickly and accurately.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

ITAR

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as: any individual who is granted U.S. citizenship; or any individual who is granted U.S. permanent residence ("Green Card" holder); or any individual who is granted status as a "protected person" under 8 U.S.C.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Mason is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability.