Programmer

MRA Recruiting Services•Germantown, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The CNC Machine Programmer is responsible for creating, optimizing, and maintaining programs for laser cutting, combination laser/punch machines, and other CNC fabrication equipment. This role plays a critical part in maximizing material utilization, machine efficiency, and overall throughput through effective static and dynamic nesting strategies. The programmer will collaborate closely with engineering, production, and estimating teams to ensure accurate and efficient part processing.

Requirements

Associate’s degree or technical diploma in Manufacturing, CNC Programming, or related field (or equivalent experience)
3+ years of CNC programming experience in a sheet metal fabrication or contract manufacturing environment
Hands-on experience with: Laser cutting and/or combination laser/punch machines Nesting (both static and dynamic)
Experience with Radan, NCell, TruTops, or similar CAD/CAM software strongly preferred
Understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes, tooling, and material behavior
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models
Solid understanding of geometric tolerancing and manufacturing constraints
Effective communication and collaboration across departments
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience in a high-mix, low-volume contract manufacturing environment
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems
Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain CNC programs for laser cutting and combination laser/punch machines
Perform both static and dynamic nesting to optimize material yield and machine utilization
Select appropriate tooling, cutting conditions, and processing strategies
Maximize sheet utilization while balancing run time, changeovers, and production priorities
Continuously improve nesting strategies to reduce scrap and increase efficiency
Program using CAD/CAM software such as Radan, NCell, TruTops, Stream Bend, MerryMech and Dr. Abe.
Maintain accurate program files, revisions, and documentation
Support programming for additional equipment as needed, including: CNC punch presses Panel bending equipment Press brakes or other fabrication machinery
Work with engineering on new product introductions and design for manufacturability (DFM)
Partner with production to troubleshoot programming or machine issues
Support estimating with cycle times and feasibility feedback
Identify opportunities to improve throughput, reduce setup time, and standardize processes
Participate in lean manufacturing and process improvement initiatives