CNC Machinist

Ford Motor Company • Long Beach, CA

2d • $95,300 - $159,400 • Hybrid

About The Position

As a CNC Programmer/Operator, you will program, set up, and operate CNC milling machines and 5-axis gantry mills, including DMG MORI and Fooke machines, to produce high-quality parts and components for prototype vehicles. You will collaborate with design and engineering teams to translate engineering designs into precise, efficient CNC programs and deliver parts accurately and on time for prototype builds. CNC programming expertise, safe machine operation, teamwork, and quality workmanship are essential.

Requirements

• 5–7+ years of experience as a CNC Programmer/Operator.
• Proven expertise in CNC programming using CAM software.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Strong understanding of material properties and machinability of metals, plastics, foams, and composites.
• Ability to troubleshoot CNC machining problems and identify solutions that improve part quality and efficiency.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software workflows and integration.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, including the ability to collaborate with design and fabrication teams.
• High attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Ability to lift 50–70+ pounds.
• Ability to stand for long periods and bend or twist, kneel, stoop, or crouch.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with rapid prototyping techniques and workflows.
• Ability to create and modify CAD models for fixturing and tooling purposes.
• Experience with reverse engineering techniques for creating CAD models from physical parts.
• 5-axis gantry milling experience.
• Experience with PowerMill.
• Familiarity with HEIDENHAIN and Siemens controls.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot G-code CNC programs using CAM software such as PowerMill and Autodesk Fusion, based on 3D CAD models and engineering drawings.
• Set up and operate CNC milling machines, selecting tooling, fixturing, and cutting parameters to achieve required part geometries and surface finishes.
• Produce precision parts and components for prototype vehicles while meeting tight tolerances and quality standards.
• Collaborate with design engineers to understand design intent, identify manufacturing challenges, and provide feedback on manufacturability.
• Evaluate and improve machining processes to increase efficiency, reduce cycle times, and minimize material waste.
• Inspect finished parts with precision measuring instruments to verify conformance to specifications.
• Manage and maintain an organized inventory of CNC tooling and ensure tools are available for upcoming projects.
• Maintain accurate records of CNC programs, setup sheets, and machining parameters.
• Follow safety procedures and protocols to maintain a safe working environment.

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
• Paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, and subsidized backup childcare.
• Family-building benefits, including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement and fertility treatments.
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members, and management leases.
• Tuition assistance.
• Employee resource groups.
• Paid time off for individual and team community service.
• Vacation time, sick/personal time, and paid holidays, including between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed