Senior CNC Programmer for Aerospace Manufacturing

Allient; Dothan (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Allient in Alabama seeks a Senior Programmer/Manufacturing Engineer to serve as SME and mentor in programming, operation, and maintenance of equipment in the Machine Center of Excellence.

You will develop and optimize CNC programs for multi-axis machines, interpret drawings, lead continuous improvement, train staff, and ensure compliance with AS9100/NADCAP while advancing lean initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of CNC programming experience with at least 3 years in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
• Deep knowledge of G-code, multi-axis machining (3-,4-, and 5-axis), blueprint reading, tight-tolerance aerospace components, and high-performance tooling.
• Proven track record of coaching and mentoring technical teams.
• Strong understanding of Lean, SMED, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for multi-axis milling, turning, and mill-turn machines using CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Siemens NX, or Fusion 360).
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications to ensure accurate machining processes.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve manufacturability and reduce cycle times.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, and feeds to maximize efficiency and tool life.
• Conduct first article inspections and troubleshoot machining issues to ensure part conformance and quality standards.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in CNC programming, setup, and machining processes.
• Train and mentor junior programmers, engineers, operators, and machinists on best practices and new technologies.
• Lead workshops on CNC programming techniques, workholding and tooling strategies, SMED, Lean manufacturing principles, setup reduction and process standardization.
• Maintain and update CNC program libraries and documentation in accordance with company standards.
• Support new product introductions by developing prototype programs and refining processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements in all machining operations.
• Prepare geometric layout using CAD software to show location of reference points and direction of cutting paths.
• Determinereferencepointsanddirectionofmachinecuttingpaths
• Analyzedrawings,sketches,anddesigndataofpartstodeterminedimensionandconfigurationofcuts,selection of cutting tools, and machine speeds and feed rates
• PreparetheCNCmachineforproductionadjustsmachinesettingstothedesiredproductspecifications.
• Completequalitycontroltestsduringthemanufacturingstageandonthefinalproduct.
• Design and implement efficient workholding and tooling solutions for multi-axis machining.
• Collaborate with design and quality teams to ensure manufacturability and compliance with aerospace standards (AS9100, NADCAP).
• Champion Lean initiatives across the shop floor, focusing on waste reduction, cycle time improvement, and setup efficiency.
• Lead Kaizen events and support implementation of 5S, visual management, and standard work.
• Analyze machining processes to identify opportunities for cost savings and quality improvements.

Skills

CNC programming

G-code

Lean manufacturing

Mentoring

CAD/CAM

Multi-axis machining

ERP/MES familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering

Tools

Mastercam

Siemens NX

CATIA

Fusion 360

Job description

Allient in Alabama seeks a Senior Programmer/Manufacturing Engineer to serve as SME and mentor in programming, operation, and maintenance of equipment in the Machine Center of Excellence.

You will develop and optimize CNC programs for multi-axis machines, interpret drawings, lead continuous improvement, train staff, and ensure compliance with AS9100/NADCAP while advancing lean initiatives.