CAD Technician

INSPYR Solutions•Seattle, WA

About The Position

The role involves advanced CNC machine setup and operation, CNC programming and optimization, technical troubleshooting, quality inspection, equipment maintenance, mentorship, and work-area organization. The technician sets up and operates CNC machines for production, prepares standard and custom fixturing, verifies setup accuracy, and monitors production. They write and modify programs using G-code or CAM software, interpret engineering drawings and GD&T specifications, and adjust cutting parameters, feed rates, and tool paths to improve production performance. The position also includes troubleshooting machine, programming, setup, and quality issues; conducting inspections with precision measuring equipment; maintaining CNC machines and related records; and coordinating major repairs with the maintenance team. The technician provides guidance and technical knowledge to CNC operators and helps maintain organized work areas, documentation, and digital files. The posting identifies the position as an 11-month role in Seattle, Washington, with compensation of $30–$35.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 5 years of CNC machine operation and programming experience; industry or technical college experience is acceptable.
Strong knowledge of G-code and CAM software.
Strong attention to detail and precision.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T.
Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to set up fixturing using standard fixture hardware and design custom fixtures.
Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel.
Willingness to learn and take direction from experienced machinists.

Nice To Haves

At least 7 years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
Technical certification or an associate degree in machining or a related field.
Advanced knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
Experience with CAM software such as Mastercam, ESPRIT, or similar.
Experience with multiple CNC machine types, including mills, lathes, and multi-axis machines.
Experience in contract manufacturing or high-mix production environments.
Knowledge of fixture design and tooling optimization.
Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing training.

Responsibilities

Set up, load, and operate CNC machines according to job specifications and perform complex setups for production runs.
Set up fixturing using standard fixture hardware and design custom fixtures for specialized machining operations.
Calibrate machines and verify setup accuracy before production.
Monitor machine operations and production quality; perform first-article inspections and verify dimensional accuracy.
Write and modify CNC programs using G-code or CAM software.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.
Optimize cutting parameters, feed rates, and tool paths to improve cycle times.
Troubleshoot programming errors, machine issues, and quality problems; make real-time program and machine adjustments.
Keep machine templates up to date and maintain a clean digital file archive.
Recommend process improvements to reduce setup time and increase throughput.
Conduct in-process quality checks and measurements using calipers, micrometers, and other precision inspection tools.
Document quality issues and work with the quality team on corrective actions.
Perform routine CNC machine maintenance, diagnose mechanical and electrical issues, replace cutting tools and consumables, and maintain equipment calibration.
Coordinate major repairs and upgrades with the maintenance team and keep maintenance logs and equipment records.
Provide guidance to CNC Operators and share technical knowledge and process improvements with team members.
Maintain a clean, organized work area; enforce 5S standards and organize tools, fixtures, and materials efficiently.
Learn from and take direction from experienced machinists.