NIAR CNC Programmer - AMP Lab

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is looking for a CNC Programmer in Wichita, Kansas. The role involves creating and optimizing CNC programs using both CAM software and manual programming techniques. You'll be responsible for translating engineering drawings into machine code for high-quality manufacturing.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, five years of relevant experience, and proficiency in Mastercam and/or CATIA V5. This position also requires the ability to interpret drawings and GD&T specifications effectively.

Qualifications

• Five years of relevant work experience; every 30 hours of related college coursework and/or technical training can substitute one year of experience.
• Ability to interpret drawings and GD&T requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize CNC programs using CAM software.
• Analyze engineering blueprints, 3D CAD models, and GD&T specifications.
• Provide shop floor support to operators by diagnosing programming errors.

Skills

Proficient programming in Mastercam and/or CATIA V5

Ability to work in a team-focused environment

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CAM software

Mastercam

CATIA V5

Job description

Job Information

Department: NIAR Advanced Machining and PrototypingLab
Campus Location: Other Kansas Location
Hire Type: Full Time
Pay: Commensurate with experience
Work Schedule: Typically, 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday; occasional evenings and weekends may be required as needed. Work is performed at NIAR Facilities and on-site at Customer facilities.
Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a "U.S. Citizen".

Job Summary

Responsible for creating work instructions and preparing programs to be read by controllers on computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines for the purpose of producing precision machined metal parts in conformance with customer design specifications.

Essential Functions

• Prepares numerical control (NC) programs and related documentation for producing a precision part on the machines.
• Creates consistent and reliable methods for optimum efficiency of material removal and part compliance.
• Selects cutting tools that are suitable for particular part/machine tool; sets up all jobs with required fixtures and tooling.
• Follows the progress of part(s) through inspection and other processing cycles for discrepancies and optimizations.
• Collaborates with internal and external customers as required regarding delivery, blueprint questions, lean ideas, cost reductions, etc.
• Identifies improvement opportunities; adheres to schedule and budget constraints.
• Provides support for machine operations; provides training on safe work habits as needed.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Job Duties

• Develop and optimize CNC programs using CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, CATIA) and manual G‑code/M‑code entry to control mills, lathes, or multi‑axis machines.
• Analyze engineering blueprints, 3D CAD models, and GD&T specifications to determine appropriate machining sequences and tolerances.
• Select optimal cutting tools, calculate speeds and feeds, and design or specify fixtures and work‑holding solutions for production.
• Monitor and refine existing programs to reduce cycle times, minimize tool wear, and decrease material scrap rates.
• Perform machine dry runs to ensure new programs operate safely and produce parts that meet all quality benchmarks.
• Provide shop‑floor support to operators by diagnosing programming errors or mechanical issues and implementing corrective actions.
• Create detailed setup sheets and tooling lists to ensure standardized and repeatable manufacturing processes.
• Use simulation software like Vericut to verify toolpaths and prevent catastrophic machine crashes before the program ever reaches the shop floor.

Required Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent by hire date.
Five (5) years of relevant work experience; every 30 hours of related college coursework and/or technical training can be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Interpret drawings and GD&T requirements and incorporate them into NC programs.
• Proficient programming in Mastercam and/or CATIA V5.
• Ability to work in a team‑focused environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three (3) years of experience operating 5‑Axis Large Gantry CNC machines.
• Three (3) years of 5‑Axis CNC programming.

Additional Position Details

The CNC Programmer is responsible for translating complex engineering drawings and 3D models into high‑quality machine code to drive precision manufacturing. You will utilize CAM software to develop efficient toolpaths, select appropriate tooling, and design work‑holding solutions that optimize production speed and accuracy. Beyond code generation, you will be expected to perform program prove‑outs, troubleshoot technical issues on the shop floor, and collaborate closely with the production team to ensure all parts meet strict dimensional tolerances and quality standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to use tools, equipment, and technology necessary to do the job.
• Dexterity in instrument manipulation.
• Ability to move, transport, and/or deliver items, supplies, or equipment.
• Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position.
• Ability to ascend and descend ladders and/or stairs.
• Ability to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively and expressively.