CNC/CAM Programmer – Aerospace Manufacturing

HORST ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING CO•East Hartford, CT

About The Position

The CNC/CAM Programmer is an important member of our programming and engineering team, supporting the production of precision aerospace components. This role acts as a liaison of excellence between the Engineering and Manufacturing (Operations) teams. You will focus on process development and CNC programming for multi-axis lathes and vertical machining centers. Time will be split between programming in a CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) environment and, as required, performing hands-on setup for first-run production.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering preferred.
Progressive on-the-job experience commensurate with a degree will be considered.
Five or more years of advanced manufacturing experience, preferably in precision or ultra-precision machining environments.
Expert knowledge of Fanuc controls.
CNC programming experience using advanced techniques, including on-machine probing and tool setters, preferred.
Strong knowledge of work-holding, tooling systems, and CNC machine setup.
Proven working experience with CAM software for CNC programming. ESPRIT is preferred; experience with Mastercam, PartMaker, SolidCAM, or similar systems is acceptable. ESPRIT training will be provided.
Familiarity with manufacturing enterprise software; experience with Epicor ERP or similar systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

Utilize ESPRIT CAM software to develop CNC programs (G-code) that optimize manufacturing methods for producing precision and ultra-precision components.
Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to develop manufacturing processes, preferred tooling and work-holding, in-process deburring, and metrology that become approved production work instructions. Document all selections in ESPRIT tooling and datasheet libraries.
Leverage parametric programming, macros, and CAM software to optimize programs across families of parts.
Set up and operate production equipment during initial process development for new parts.
Determine optimal setups, toolpaths, material removal rates, surface finishes, and yields.
Train production personnel to ensure smooth transition and reproducibility in mass production.
Manage CNC programs and machine/tool setup data within the company’s Product Data Management (PDM) and Distributed Numerical Control (DNC) systems.
Serve as an in-house subject matter expert and participate in lean initiatives to optimize released products, reduce setup and machine time, and improve productivity and quality.
Stay current with manufacturing technologies through research of equipment, software, tooling, and gaging systems.
Make recommendations for productivity improvements related to technology investments.
Perform miscellaneous duties as assigned.