CATIA CNC Programmer

PTS Advance•Tacoma, WA

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced CATIA CNC Programmer to develop, optimize, and support CNC machining processes for complex, close-tolerance metal components and assemblies. The programmer translates engineering drawings and electronic design data into accurate, efficient CNC programs while meeting quality, cost, and labor standards. The role supports 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining operations, including machine prove-outs, tooling and fixture concepts, process development, and production optimization. Working with Engineering, Estimating, Manufacturing, and shop-floor personnel, the programmer develops manufacturing strategies for new business and improves existing production processes. The position also evaluates machining and manufacturing technologies that could increase productivity, reduce costs, shorten production cycle times, and strengthen manufacturing capabilities. The role includes programming and process documentation, supporting estimates and RFQs, validating manufacturing processes, analyzing inspection results, and maintaining accurate information in ERP and related systems. The programmer also supports AS9100 audits and follows applicable quality standards, procedures, and company manuals.

Requirements

7–10 years of CNC programming and tooling design experience involving 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining centers.
Professional experience using CATIA for CNC programming.
Experience with VERICUT simulation software.
Strong understanding of metal-removal and cutting technologies.
Ability to interpret customer engineering drawings and solid models and develop CNC programs that meet engineering and dimensional requirements.
Strong blueprint reading, measurement, and dimensional inspection skills.
Ability to evaluate machining and prove-out results, identify dimensional discrepancies, and make necessary programming corrections.
Experience supporting machine prove-outs and resolving machining or manufacturing process issues.
Ability to collaborate across functions on bid reviews, engineering plans, and manufacturing producibility.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills, including the ability to work directly with skilled shop-floor personnel.

Nice To Haves

Previous machining experience working with hard metals on 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining centers.
Experience with CAD modeling, tooling design, and technical drafting.
Associate degree in a relevant technical or manufacturing discipline, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

Develop 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC programs using CATIA in accordance with customer specifications, engineering requirements, and manufacturing standards.
Translate engineering drawings, CAD models, and electronic design data into accurate CNC programs that meet dimensional, geometric, and labor requirements.
Create machining processes that meet established quality and production standards while controlling costs.
Support machine prove-outs, troubleshoot programming issues, and make necessary adjustments for production.
Develop setup instructions and supporting documentation for machine operators.
Coordinate machining sequences and manufacturing processes with cross-functional team members.
Assist with tooling and fixture design and manufacturing concepts.
Develop and support manufacturing processes for new parts and customer programs.
Validate new processes to ensure they meet or exceed quality, cost, and performance estimates before production transition.
Identify opportunities to improve machining processes, reduce costs, and shorten production cycle times.
Support lean manufacturing initiatives through efficient production methods and workflow improvements.
Research and evaluate advances in machining, finishing, assembly, and manufacturing technologies; recommend technologies and capital equipment when they offer measurable advantages.
Partner with Engineering and Estimating to prepare manufacturing time and cost estimates for new parts.
Provide technical input for customer RFQs and support timely, competitive bidding packages.
Keep programming, development, and machine prove-out activities aligned with project schedules and budgeted hours.
Participate in bid reviews, engineering planning, and manufacturing producibility assessments.
Coordinate with manufacturing personnel to ensure production methods are practical, repeatable, and capable of meeting customer requirements.
Support AS9100 audits and comply with applicable quality standards and procedures.
Maintain accurate programming documentation and enter required information into company ERP and related systems.
Follow the Programming CAD/CAM Manual and Engineering Procedures Manual.
Maintain accurate manufacturing data for reporting, planning, and operational decision-making.
Analyze dimensional inspection results during machine prove-outs and make programming corrections to resolve discrepancies.
Work with Engineering, Estimating, Manufacturing, and shop-floor personnel to resolve technical challenges and improve production methods.
Communicate with union journey-level machinists and other manufacturing personnel to troubleshoot issues and implement improvements.
Provide technical guidance to ensure operators have appropriate programs, tooling, and documentation.
Help establish manufacturing processes that meet customer specifications, labor targets, and quality expectations.