CNC Lathe Programmer Lead

Distro•Tucson, AZ

3d•Onsite

About The Position

ITDE is hiring a CNC Lathe Programmer Lead for its precision aerospace manufacturing team in Tucson, Arizona. This onsite leadership role develops and optimizes complex CNC programs for precision-machined components, mentors programmers, collaborates with manufacturing teams, and improves machining efficiency using CAM, CNC, and tooling technologies. The role supports production from program development and setup through prove-outs, first article inspections, and production launches. The position leads and supports the Lathe Programming Team and helps establish training initiatives, documentation standards, and Best Known Methods for programming and machining. It also evaluates emerging technologies, supports continuous improvement, and works with machinists, setup technicians, mill programmers, and other manufacturing personnel to improve quality, productivity, and repeatability.

Requirements

Previous experience programming complex precision-machined components.
Strong CNC lathe programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
Proficiency with CAM software; GibbsCAM is preferred.
Experience creating advanced CNC programs using high-speed machining strategies.
Thorough understanding of probing systems and automated process monitoring.
Experience with Renishaw probing systems.
Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturing documents.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Working knowledge of CAD/CAM software systems.
Must live in the Tucson, Arizona area or be willing to relocate to Tucson from elsewhere in the USA.

Nice To Haves

CNC mill programming experience.
Aerospace manufacturing experience.
Leadership or mentoring experience within a programming or machining department.
Strong understanding of process optimization, tooling strategies, and lean manufacturing principles.
GibbsCAM experience.

Responsibilities

Develop complex CNC programs for precision components made on a variety of CNC lathes.
Use advanced CAM software to improve machining efficiency and apply high-speed material-removal strategies.
Analyze engineering drawings, specifications, GD&T requirements, tolerances, and design data to create machining programs.
Convert Mazatrol programs to EIA format as needed.
Generate machine programs and implement probing routines, special instructions, and process-monitoring features.
Create and maintain setup sheets, tooling documentation, and machining instructions.
Lead and support the Lathe Programming Team and collaborate with mill programmers, machinists, and manufacturing personnel.
Oversee training initiatives and documentation standards for CNC programming processes.
Implement and maintain Best Known Methods for programming and machining operations.
Review existing programs and setups to identify cycle-time reductions and process improvements.
Evaluate emerging technologies and assist with implementing new manufacturing solutions.
Promote continuous improvement, quality, and teamwork.
Collaborate with setup technicians and machine operators during machine setup and program prove-outs.
Provide technical support for first article inspections and production launches.
Revise and optimize programs to eliminate errors and improve efficiency and repeatability.
Create fixture concepts and detailed manufacturing documentation for repeat production work.
Review manufacturing processes to maximize productivity, quality, and consistency.