Numerical Control Programmer 3

ACL Digital; Everett (WA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

ACL Digital is seeking a Numerical Control Programmer (NCP) 3 & 4 for on-site roles in Auburn, WA or Everett, WA. The position focuses on NC programming for complex aerospace parts, multi-axis setups, and collaboration with planning and shop-floor teams.

You will develop MCD, tooling geometry, and setup documentation, using Vericut for validation and ensuring producibility. Strong CAD/CAM skills and GD&T literacy are essential, with a 1st shift possible.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of NC programming experience for production machining.
• 5-axis CNC programming experience for aerospace parts.
• Proficiency reading engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing documentation.

Responsibilities

• Create, verify, and revise Machine Control Data (MCD) and setup documentation for multi-axis CNC machines (primarily 5-axis).
• Interpret engineering drawings and planning documentation to develop robust NC programs for aluminum and hard-metal parts.
• Develop multiple setups and operations for complex geometries ensuring fixturing, tooling, and machine selection support producibility.
• Produce clear setup sheets and operator instructions for consistent and safe machine operation.
• Use simulation/verification tools (e.g., Vericut) to validate programs and prevent collisions before shop-floor execution.
• Troubleshoot and iterate programs based on first-article inspections and in-process feedback.
• Coordinate with planning, manufacturing engineering, tooling design, and operators to optimize cycle times and reduce scrap.
• Level 4: Lead design of custom fixtures and tooling and define machining strategies across operations and machines.

Skills

5-axis programming

CATIA V5 NC programming

Vericut

GD&T interpretation

Setup documentation

Tools

Vericut

CAM systems

Post-processors

Job description

Job Title: Numerical Control Programmer 3 & 4

Location: Auburn, WA or Everett, WA (100 % Onsite)

Shifts: 1st

Pay Range : $60-63/hr

Job Description

As a contractor Numerical Control Programmer (NCP) on our Machining/Tooling team, you’ll drive the NC programming, setup documentation, and machining strategy for complex multi-axis parts used . You will collaborate closely with planning, aerospace engineering, tooling, and shop-floor operators to turn engineered concepts into producible, high-quality parts. This role is ideal for hands-on programmers who enjoy solving machining challenges, optimizing workflows, and seeing their programs executed on the shop floor.

Primary Responsibilities

• Create, verify, and revise Machine Control Data (MCD), tooling geometry, and setup documentation for multi-axis CNC machines (primarily 5-axis).
• Interpret engineering drawings, planning documentation, and manufacturing requirements to develop robust NC programs for aluminum and hard-metal parts.
• Develop multiple setups and operations for complex part geometries, ensuring fixturing, tooling, and machine selection support producibility and tolerances.
• Produce clear setup sheets and operator instructions that enable consistent and safe machine operation.
• Use simulation/verification tools (e.g., Vericut) to validate programs and eliminate collisions or gouges prior to shop-floor execution.
• Troubleshoot and iterate programs based on first-article inspections, in-process feedback, and shop-floor testing.
• Coordinate with planning, manufacturing engineering, tooling design, and machine operators to optimize cycle times, reduce scrap, and address manufacturability concerns.
• For Level 4: Lead the design of custom fixtures and complex tooling arrangements and define machining strategies across multiple operations and machines.
• Maintain program documentation, revisions, and configuration control per company/contract requirements.

Required Skills

• 5+ years of NC programming experience for production machining or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience programming 5-axis CNC machines for aerospace parts (aluminum and hard metals).
• Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing documentation.
• Proficient in CATIA V5 NC programming.
• Proficient in NC simulation/verification tools such as Vericut.
• Ability to create clear setup documentation and operator instructions.
• Able to work 2nd shift schedule as specified.
• Contractor eligibility to work under the terms of the engagement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience creating custom fixtures and tooling for multi-setup machining operations.
• Experience defining machining strategy and selecting appropriate machines and processes for part families.
• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing processes, inspection practices, and first-article requirements.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a track record of reducing cycle times or improving producibility.
• Effective communicator with experience collaborating across planning, engineering, and shop-floor teams.
• Experience with additional CAM systems or post-processors commonly used in aerospace environments.