NC Programmer

Job Title: NC Programmer

Location: Wichita, Kansas

Job Type: Onsite, Full-Time

About the Job:

We are seeking an experienced NC Programmer to develop and optimize CNC programs for multi-axis machining centers that manufacture complex aerospace components and tooling fixtures. This role is responsible for creating efficient machining programs, validating toolpaths, designing tooling and workholding solutions, producing setup documentation, and supporting production through program prove-outs and continuous process improvements. The ideal candidate has extensive experience with aerospace machining, CAD/CAM programming, and CNC manufacturing best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop CNC programs for multi-axis machining centers using advanced machining strategies.

Interpret engineering drawings, 3D models, and GD&T specifications to create accurate machining programs.

Optimize cutting tools, machining parameters, feeds, speeds, and workholding methods to maximize productivity and quality.

Validate toolpaths using machine simulation software before production release.

Design tooling, fixtures, and workholding solutions to improve manufacturing efficiency.

Create detailed setup sheets and production documentation for machinists.

Provide technical support during first article prove-outs and production launches.

Troubleshoot machining issues and implement programming improvements to reduce cycle times and improve quality.

Collaborate closely with machinists, manufacturing engineers, quality teams, and production personnel.

Incorporate shop-floor feedback into existing programs and continuously improve machining processes.

Support First Article Inspection (FAI) requirements and maintain compliance with applicable quality standards.

Ensure all programming activities comply with manufacturing, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

Required Qualifications:

Minimum 5+ years of CNC Programming experience in a precision manufacturing or aerospace environment.

Expert knowledge of CATIA V5 for CAD/CAM programming.

Strong experience using Vericut for machine simulation and program verification.

Experience programming multi-axis CNC machining centers.

Strong knowledge of high-speed machining techniques for aluminum and hard metals.

Experience designing tooling and workholding fixtures using CATIA V5.

Thorough understanding of GD&T and the ability to interpret complex engineering drawings.

Knowledge of aerospace inspection processes and First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation.

Understanding of ITAR regulations and ISO 9001/AS9100 quality standards.

Working knowledge of CATIA V5 data structure.

Proficiency in G-Code and M-Code programming.

Strong Microsoft Office skills.

Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing and shop-floor environment.

Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident to meet export control requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience programming Makino CNC machines.

Aerospace manufacturing experience.

Experience with tooling design, fixture development, and advanced machining strategies.

Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.

Key Skills:

CNC Programming

Multi-Axis Machining

CATIA V5

Vericut

G-Code & M-Code Programming

High-Speed Machining

Tooling & Fixture Design

GD&T Interpretation

Aerospace Manufacturing

CAD/CAM Programming

Process Optimization

CNC Process Validation

FAI Documentation

Root Cause Analysis

Continuous Improvement

Manufacturing Engineering

Precision Machining

Technical Documentation

Production Support

Problem Solving