Manufacturing Engineer – CNC & Process Optimization

Cephas Consultancy Services Private Limited; Bethlehem (Northampton County); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Cephas Consultancy Services Private Limited Bethlehem, Pennsylvania seeks a Manufacturing Engineer with deep CNC programming and machining expertise to drive efficiency, quality, and repeatable processes for high‑precision components.

You will develop and standardize CNC programs, lead process optimization to reduce cycle times, implement tooling and fixturing strategies, and support automation and setup reduction with measurable results. 7+ years CNC experience and strong GD&T are required.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of CNC machining experience with significant programming responsibility.
• Experience machining stainless steel, brass, and high‑performance alloys in tight tolerance environments.
• Advanced CNC programming experience (CAM systems and/or G-code).
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and standardize CNC programs across lathes and mills to ensure consistency, efficiency, and repeatability.
• Lead process optimization efforts to reduce cycle time, variation, and waste.
• Select, test, and implement tooling strategies to improve tool life, surface finish, and process reliability.
• Implement tool wear monitoring and process control methods to improve predictability.
• Partner with machinists and production leadership to identify root causes and implement sustainable process improvements.
• Drive setup reduction through improved fixturing, program structure, and standardized work.
• Support equipment and technology improvements, including automation and pallet systems.
• Provide DFM input and support process planning, routing, and documentation.

Skills

CNC programming

G-code

CAM systems

Machining processes

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer – CNC & Process Optimization

Cephas Consultancy Services Private Limited Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States

About this position

Job Id: CLI-45443-6

Job Type: Direct hire

Position Summary

Client seeks a highly skilled Manufacturing Engineer with deep expertise in CNC programming and machining to drive measurable improvements in efficiency, consistency, and overall manufacturing performance. This role is ideal for a “master programmer” who excels at optimizing machining processes, reducing cycle times, standardizing programs, and improving setup efficiency across CNC equipment. You will play a key role in eliminating waste, improving tooling strategies, and ensuring reliable, repeatable processes for manufacturing high‑precision components. It is a hands‑on role bridging engineering and the shop floor, working closely with machinists and leadership to improve productivity, quality, and operational performance while supporting longer‑term advancements in manufacturing technology.

Primary Functions

• Develop, optimize, and standardize CNC programs across lathes and mills to ensure consistency, efficiency, and repeatability
• Serve as the subject matter expert in CNC programming for complex, tight tolerance components
• Establish and drive adoption of standardized programming practices across machines and operators
• Lead process optimization efforts to reduce cycle time, variation, and waste
• Select, test, and implement tooling strategies to improve tool life, surface finish, and process reliability
• Implement tool wear monitoring and process control methods to improve predictability
• Partner with machinists and production leadership to identify root causes and implement sustainable process improvements
• Drive setup reduction through improved fixturing, program structure, and standardized work
• Support equipment and technology improvements, including automation and pallet systems
• Provide DFM input and support process planning, routing, and documentation (setup sheets, tooling standards, best practices)
• Support machine setup, prove‑outs, and process validation to ensure program reliability
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives with measurable results

Primary Competencies

• Expert‑level CNC programming skills (G‑code and/or CAM systems)
• Strong understanding of machining high‑performance alloys and tight tolerance components
• Proven ability to improve machining efficiency, reduce cycle times, and optimize processes
• Knowledge of modern tooling systems, coatings, and cutting methodologies
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work effectively between engineering and production teams
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Effective prioritization and project management abilities
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on measurable results

Culture

Actively work to create strong communication and a healthy working environment. Communicate in a positive manner with all employees. Respectfully listen to concerns and ideas brought to your attention. Support and participate in company functions. Respect confidentiality. Embody our values of Integrity, Trust, Creativity and Courage, Teamwork, and Excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent hands‑on experience
• 7+ years of CNC machining experience with significant programming responsibility
• Experience machining stainless steel, brass, and high‑performance or corrosion‑resistant alloys (e.g., Alloy 20, Hastelloy, Duplex, or similar) in tight tolerance environments
• Demonstrated track record of improving machining efficiency, reducing cycle times, or implementing process improvements in a production environment
• Advanced CNC programming experience (CAM systems and/or G‑code)
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation
• Experience with tooling selection, fixture design, and process improvement
• Hands‑on machining experience (lathe and/or mill) strongly preferred
• Experience with automation, pallet systems, or lights‑out manufacturing environments is a plus
• Familiarity with ERP systems (Syteline or similar) preferred
• Must be able to perform the physical demands of the job such as: safely navigating a manufacturing environment, extended periods of sitting and using a computer, occasional bending and stooping, occasional lifting up to 25 lbs

Attendance Requirements

Attendance on a regular, consistent basis is mandatory.

Accommodations

Essential functions of this position may include but are not limited to lifting, reaching, bending, stooping, twisting, kneeling, crouching, carrying objects, ascending/descending stairs and commuting to work location. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) or other state or federal law, you may request the accommodation below.