Sr. CNC Programmer III

Socket.dev; Fairfield (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev in Fairfield, CA is seeking a Senior CNC Programmer III to develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machines, including DMG pallet-changing centers. The role requires Mastercam proficiency and strong GD&T interpretation.

You will collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve cycle times, tooling, and process reliability while ensuring safety and compliance with standards.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of CNC programming experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Advanced proficiency using Mastercam CAD/CAM software.
• Experience programming multi-axis CNC machining centers (3-, 4-, 5-axis).
• Experience programming DMG pallet-changing horizontal centers preferred.
• SolidWorks, Catia or Creo experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling, and GD&T.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models.
• Experience with precision measurement equipment and quality inspection.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methods.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam.
• Program complex components for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining centers including DMG pallet-changing centers.
• Interpret drawings, GD&T, CAD models, and manufacturing specs.
• Develop machining strategies to maximize productivity while maintaining quality and tool life.
• Select tools, fixtures, feeds, and speeds for optimal cycles.
• Simulate and verify toolpaths to prevent collisions before release.
• Support first article production, prove-out, and process validation.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and revise programs to improve cycle time and quality.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineers and machinists for continuous improvement.
• Maintain organized program documentation, revision control, and tooling lists.
• Support Lean manufacturing and reduce setup time, scrap, and costs.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Skills

Mastercam Programming

Multi-Axis CNC Machining

Process Development

Toolpath Optimization

Manufacturing Engineering Support

GD&T Interpretation

Continuous Improvement

Root Cause Analysis

Precision Machining

Problem Solving

Collaboration

Quality Focus

Education

Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Machining Technology, Engineering Technology, or equivalent experience preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

Catia

Creo

Job description

JOB TITLE: Senior CNC Programmer/CNC Programmer III

GRADE: 15

REPORT TO: General Manager

SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS:

The CNC Programmer III is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC machining programs for complex precision components using Mastercam CAD/CAM software. This position supports production by creating efficient, accurate machining programs for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis vertical machining centers, as well as a DMG horizontal machining center equipped with an automatic pallet changer. The CNC Programmer III works closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Quality, and Machine Operators to ensure parts are produced safely, efficiently, and to customer specifications.

MAJOR DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam software
• Program complex precision components for:
  • 3-axis vertical machining centers
  • 4-axis vertical machining centers
  • 5-axis vertical machining centers
  • DMG horizontal machining center with automatic pallet changer
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, CAD models, and manufacturing specifications
• Develop machining strategies that maximize productivity while maintaining quality and tool life
• Select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, work holding, feeds, and speeds
• Simulate and verify toolpaths to eliminate collisions and ensure program accuracy before release
• Support first article production, prove-out, and process validation of new programs
• Troubleshoot machining issues and revise programs to improve cycle time, quality, and machine efficiency
• Work with Manufacturing Engineers and machinists to implement continuous process improvements
• Maintain organized program documentation, revision control, setup sheets, and tooling lists
• Support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing setup time, scrap, and machining costs
• Ensure compliance with all company safety procedures and quality standards

EXPERIENCE AND/OR EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Machining Technology, Engineering Technology, or equivalent experience preferred
• Minimum 8 years of CNC programming experience in a precision manufacturing environment
• Advanced proficiency using Mastercam CAD/CAM software
• Experience programming multi-axis CNC machining centers, including 3-, 4-, and 5-axis equipment
• Experience programming horizontal machining centers with pallet-changing systems, preferably DMG machines
• SolidWorks, Catia and/or Creo experience preferred
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling, cutting parameters, and work holding
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T
• Experience with precision measurement equipment and quality inspection requirements
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience machining aerospace, defense, medical, or other high-precision components
• Knowledge of fixture design and process optimization
• Experience with ERP and manufacturing systems
• Understanding of AS9100 or ISO quality management systems

Key Competencies

• Mastercam Programming
• Multi-Axis CNC Machining
• Process Development
• Toolpath Optimization
• Manufacturing Engineering Support
• GD&T Interpretation
• Continuous Improvement
• Root Cause Analysis
• Precision Machining
• Problem Solving
• Collaboration
• Quality Focus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Stand and walk for extended periods
• Sit for extended periods
• Frequently, bend, kneel, reach, and use hands repetitively
• Occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work overtime and weekends as business needs require

Toray Advanced Composites employment practices offer equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate against its employees or applicants because of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by law. Equal employment opportunity will be extended to all persons in all aspects of the employer/employee relationship, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination