Small Assembly Planner/Programmer

Federal Signal Corporation; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Federal Signal Corporation in Houston, Texas, is seeking a Small Assembly Planner/Programmer who will be responsible for planning and programming fabrication work using CNC and ProNest/EnRoute software. The ideal candidate will have 3–5+ years in fabrication planning and programming.

This technical, hands-on role includes translating engineering designs into efficient fabrication output while maximizing material yield. An understanding of sheet metal processes and effective communication with Engineering and Production teams is crucial.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of experience in fabrication planning and CNC programming.
• Hands-on experience with ProNest and EnRoute is required.
• Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes.

Responsibilities

• Program and nest fabrication jobs using ProNest and EnRoute.
• Create and optimize CNC programs for maximum material yield.
• Review engineering drawings and specifications for accuracy.
• Coordinate with Engineering and Production teams.

Skills

CNC programming

ProNest

EnRoute

Sheet metal fabrication

Engineering drawing interpretation

Analytical skills

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Education

Technical degree in Manufacturing or Engineering Technology

Tools

ProNest

EnRoute

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

CNC machinery

Job description

Job Purpose

The Small Assembly Planner/Programmer is responsible for planning, programming, and optimizing fabrication work using CNC and fabrication software. This role focuses on translating engineering designs into accurate, efficient cut and form programs that support safe, high‑quality, and on‑time fabrication output. This position is highly technical and hands‑on, centered on ProNest and EnRoute programming, material utilization, machine efficiency, and coordination of fabrication work, without direct people‑management responsibility.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Program, nest, and release fabrication jobs using ProNest and EnRoute to support fabrication equipment including shear, router, press brake, and other CNC fabrication equipment.
• Create, maintain, and optimize CNC programs, nests, and machine files to maximize material yield, reduce scrap, and improve cycle times.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Material (BOMs) for accuracy, manufacturability, and completeness.
• Translate work orders and production priorities into executable fabrication plans.
• Maintain tooling data, bend allowances, machine parameters, and process documentation.
• Support press brake setup and forming strategies, including sequencing and tooling selection.
• Work closely with fabrication operators to troubleshoot program issues, setup challenges, and quality concerns.
• Coordinate with Engineering to address drawing issues, design changes, and manufacturability improvements.
• Interface with Materials and Production teams to ensure correct material availability and job readiness.
• Support production flow by adjusting programs and priorities based on machine capacity and changing demands.
• Identify opportunities to improve fabrication efficiency, nesting strategies, and machine utilization.
• Reduce scrap, rework, and downtime through improved programming and process standardization.
• Follow and support quality requirements by ensuring fabrication outputs meet print and tolerance specifications.
• Participate in continuous improvement, Lean, and Kaizen initiatives related to fabrication processes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Skills, Experience, And Education

• Technical degree in Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, CAD/CAM or related field, or equivalent fabrication programming experience.
• 3–5+ years of experience in fabrication planning and CNC programming.
• Hands‑on experience with ProNest and EnRoute (required).
• Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes, including cutting, routing, forming, and press brake operations.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and BOMs.
• Working knowledge of CNC machinery, tooling, feeds/speeds, and material behavior.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills.
• Effective communicator; able to work cross‑functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Materials.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and manufacturing systems.

Tools & Machinery Used

• HD Plasma Cutting System – Messer Cutting Systems, MetalMaster Evolution Cutting Systems
• Plasma Power Unit – Thermal Dynamics, Auto‑Cut 200XT
• Plasma Table – C&G Systems, CHALLENGER DSD
• Dryer for Plasma Table – Ingersoll Rand, D18IN
• Router – MultiCam, 7000 Series
• Drill Press – Baileigh Industrial, DP‑1200 VS
• Metal Munchers
  • Clausing, MM100‑18
  • Kalamazoo, MM100‑480
  • Mill – Jet, JTM‑949EVS
  • Laydown Saw – Clausing, KC12AX
  • Roller – Synergy, AH3‑10/06
  • Press Brake – Accurpress, Advantage 725014
  • Shear – Accurshear, 637514

Essential Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to lift, carry, pull and push 50lbs unassisted.
• Regularly standing, stooping, kneeling, bending, and turning.
• Exposed to outdoor weather temperatures.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Work Hours And Schedules

• Must be able to work between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
• Occasional Saturdays, as required to meet production needs.