Senior CNC Programmer: 5-Axis, Lights-Out Production

Antares; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Antares in Torrance, CA is seeking a skilled CNC Programmer to lead development and execution of advanced machining processes for complex components. This role requires deep multi-axis programming expertise and hands-on operation in a fast-paced R&D or production environment.

You will drive parts from concept through lights‑out production, create setup sheets, collaborate with design and quality teams, and continuously reduce cycle times while maintaining tight tolerances.

Qualifications

• 5+ years CNC programming in production or R&D
• Hands-on experience with 2- to 5-axis machining
• Proficiency with Esprit or equivalent CAM software
• Experience running lights-out production environments
• Ability to transition parts from first article to full production
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Experience creating detailed setup documentation and process instructions

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes across multiple configurations (2-axis to 5-axis)
• Interpret engineering drawings with GD&T principles
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot CNC programs using CAM software
• Determine cutting tool strategies for CNC programs
• Generate and refine post-processed code for efficient machining
• Create setup sheets, tooling lists, and standard work instructions
• Lead machining process development from first article to production readiness
• Design and implement lights-out machining strategies
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to improve manufacturability
• Identify cycle-time reductions and tooling improvements
• Support rapid prototyping in a high-mix/low-volume environment

Skills

CNC programming

Multi-axis machining

GD&T

CAM software (Esprit)

Lights-out production

First article to production

Setup documentation

Tools

Esprit CAM

Fanuc controllers

Job description

Antares in Torrance, CA is seeking a skilled CNC Programmer to lead development and execution of advanced machining processes for complex components. This role requires deep multi-axis programming expertise and hands-on operation in a fast-paced R&D or production environment.

You will drive parts from concept through lights‑out production, create setup sheets, collaborate with design and quality teams, and continuously reduce cycle times while maintaining tight tolerances.