Master CNC Programmer/Machinist

Helander; Lombard (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Paid paternity leave

Paid maternity leave

Tuition assistance

Disability insurance

Job summary

A precision metal components manufacturer in Lombard, Illinois, is seeking a Master CNC Programmer/Machinist to handle complex aerospace machining. Candidates should have over 7 years of CNC experience, the ability to read engineering drawings, and hands-on machining skills. Responsibilities include programming and operating large CNC machines, problem-solving in a dynamic environment, and collaborating with engineers and production teams. The role comes with attractive benefits, including medical and tuition assistance.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of CNC machining and programming experience.
• Proven ability to read/interpret complex engineering drawings.
• Hands-on experience with rigging, cranes, and lifting equipment.

Responsibilities

• Write, read, prove‐out, and edit CNC programs.
• Program, set up, and operate a large vertical boring mill.
• Collaborate directly with engineers to streamline workflows.

Skills

CNC machining and programming experience

Engineering drawings interpretation

Problem-solving on manufacturing issues

Material handling equipment

Tools

Fanuc CNC Controller

Haas

Mastercam

Job description

Master CNC Programmer/Machinist

About the Company

Since 1936, Helander has manufactured precision metal components for aerospace, defense, energy, medical, and OEM markets. Using metal spinning, hydroforming, and CNC machining, we form components from 1″ to 100″ in diameter—across every alloy and to the highest performance standards.

We’re 40+ skilled professionals—small enough to know each other, big enough to build complex, high-stakes parts destined for space, flight, and defense. We’ve grown from $10M to $17M in recent years because we get the hard stuff right.

About the Role

Helander Metal Spinning Company is hiring a Master CNC Programmer/Machinist who thrives on complexity, loves figuring things out, and knows how to program, set up, and machine big and unusual components.

If “large-format prototype machining with constant problem‑solving” sounds like a good time, you’re our kind of person.

Responsibilities

• Write, read, prove‑out, and edit CNC programs (at the control and CAM).
• Program, set up, and operate a Shibaura Tue‑200(S) Vertical Boring & Turning Mill with Fanuc Series 0i T Model F CNC Controller.
• Prototype one‑off aerospace parts from scratch — trial, error, adjust, refine, repeat.
• Apply advanced GD&T knowledge to ensure dimensional accuracy on tight‑tolerance parts.
• Work with large, heavy, or awkward‑shaped metal parts (up to 100”+ diameter).
• Rig, lift, and safely move parts using hoists, cranes, and other material handling equipment.
• Solve real manufacturing problems on the fly — not from behind a desk.
• Spot process issues, fix them, document them, and make them repeatable.
• Collaborate directly with engineers, quality, and production to streamline workflows.
• Work in a fast‑changing environment where plans shift daily.
• Thrive in a shop that wears many hats: machinist, programmer, problem‑solver, innovator.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of CNC machining and programming experience (Fanuc, Haas, Fusion, Mastercam, or similar).
• Major experience with large or complex aerospace components (prototype and production).
• Proven ability to read/interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Experience setting up/operating large CNC equipment, horizontal mills, or vertical lathes (VTL).
• Strong understanding of tooling, feeds/speeds, fixturing, and material behavior.
• Hands­on experience with rigging, cranes, and lifting equipment in a shop environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with trial‑and‑error prototype development, short‑run CNC builds, and R&D environments.
• Background in aerospace, defense, or precision metal forming (NADCAP and AS9100 a plus).

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid paternity leave
• Paid maternity leave
• Tuition assistance
• Disability insurance