Senior Programmer Manufacturing Engineer

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

Job summary

Allient Inc. in Dothan, Alabama seeks a Senior Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer to lead CNC programming and machine center operations.

You will mentor junior programmers and machinists, drive lean manufacturing, improve cycle times, and ensure quality and regulatory compliance in aerospace projects.

This role collaborates with engineering and production teams to optimize tooling, setup, and NPI initiatives across multi‑axis milling and turning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent).
• 8+ years CNC programming with at least 3 years in aerospace/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 coaching technical teams.
• Strong understanding of Lean, SMED, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and digital manufacturing tools.
• Experience with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, NADCAP).
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software Mastercam, Siemens NX, CATIA, or Fusion 360.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for multi-axis milling, turning, and mill-turn machines using CAD/CAM software.
• Interpret complex drawings, blueprints, and specs to ensure accurate machining processes.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve manufacturability and reduce cycle times.
• Select 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.
• 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 and sessions on CNC programming, workholding, SMED, Lean, setup reduction and standard work.
• Maintain and update CNC program libraries and documentation.
• Support NPI by developing prototype programs and refining processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Skills

G-code

Multi-axis

Lean manufacturing

Mentoring

ERP/MES

CAD/CAM

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/ Manufacturing/ Industrial Engineering

Tools

Mastercam

Siemens NX

CATIA

Fusion 360

Job description

Allient Inc. is in growth mode and currently seeking a Senior Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Dothan, Alabama! The Senior Programmer/Manufacturing Engineer position serves as the Subject Matter Expert/trainer/mentor/leader in support of the programming, operation and maintenance of all equipment within the Machine Center of Excellence.

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 and one-on-one sessions on:
  • CNC programming techniques
  • Workholding and tooling strategies
  • SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Dies)
  • 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 (NPI) by developing prototype programs and refining processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements in all machining operations.
• Prepare geometric layout using computer-assisted drafting software to show location of reference points and direction of cutting paths
• Determine reference points and direction of machine cutting paths
• Analyze drawings, sketches, and design data of parts to determine dimension and configuration of cuts, selection of cutting tools, and machine speeds and feed rates
• Prepare the CNC machine for production adjusts machine settings to the desired product specifications.
• Complete quality control tests during the manufacturing stage and on the final product.
• 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, etc.).
• 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.

Minimum 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.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills and ability to lead root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and digital manufacturing tools.
• Certifications in Lean Six Sigma or similar methodologies.
• Experience with aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100, NADCAP)
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Siemens NX, CATIA, or Fusion 360.
• Demonstrated experience with low-volume, high-mix production.
• Familiarity with aerospace materials and machining best practices for titanium, Inconel, and aluminum alloys.
• To learn more about Allient, visit our website at www.Allient.com

Allient Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.