CNC Programmer - Critical Hardware

Lincoln Electric•Macomb Township, MI

About The Position

Lincoln Electric is seeking a CNC Programmer for its Critical Hardware work in Macomb. The role develops, proves out, and optimizes CNC programs for precision manufacturing, using 3D models and engineering drawings to create machine-ready toolpaths. It involves selecting machining strategies, tools, and cutting parameters; post-processing and checking machine-specific G-code; and validating programs on the machine through dry runs and first-article production. The programmer prepares setup documentation, maintains a version-controlled program library, documents tool life and proven cutting strategies, and updates programs when engineering, tooling, or fixture changes occur. The work supports machining of materials such as titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, and aluminum, with a focus on precision and aerospace manufacturing standards. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent and at least five years of CNC programming experience. A flexible schedule, including overtime and weekends, may be required to support workload.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 5 years of CNC programming experience in a production or aerospace environment.
Proficiency in Hypermill, or strong experience in Tebis and willingness to support Hypermill workflows.
Familiarity with Heidenhain controls preferred; experience with Fanuc 0i/30i series or Siemens controls, and ability to read and edit G-code.
Knowledge of insert geometry and grade selection; milling, drilling, thread milling, tapping, and high-speed machining strategies.
Understanding of GD&T, machining principles, and aerospace manufacturing standards.
Ability to use CAM-embedded machine simulation or simulation tools such as Hypermill, NC Simul, or Vericut.
Understanding of fixturing fundamentals and how workholding affects program approach and accessibility.
Ability to set up and prove out programs, including running the machine during first articles without a machinist present.
Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and schematics.
Detail-oriented, able to work independently, and possessing excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work a flexible schedule as required, including overtime and weekends.

Nice To Haves

Experience with high-precision aerospace machining.
Preferred proficiency with Hypermill.
Heidenhain machine-control experience.
Hands-on familiarity with machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and Inconel.

Responsibilities

Develop CNC toolpaths from 3D models and engineering drawings using CAM software such as Hypermill, Work NC, or Tebis.
Select cutting strategies appropriate to the material, machine capability, and cycle-time targets.
Choose cutting tools, insert grades, and cutting parameters based on machinability and surface-finish requirements.
Post-process toolpaths into machine-specific G-code and verify the output.
Prove out new programs on the machine using dry runs, cut-air procedures, and first articles while monitoring for collisions, tool deflection, and dimensional accuracy.
Optimize cycle times by reducing air cuts, improving approach and retract moves, and adjusting feeds and speeds based on chip formation.
Write setup sheets documenting workholding, tool lists and offsets, speeds and feeds, and inspection requirements.
Modify existing programs to accommodate engineering changes, tooling substitutions, or fixture modifications while maintaining part quality.
Create and maintain a version-controlled program library, documenting changes and preserving proven programs.
Maintain documented tool life and proven cutting strategies for different materials.