CNC Programming Lead (Trade Shows & Events)

Jack Morton Worldwide•Oakville, ON

2d•Onsite

About The Position

We’re looking for a CNC Programming Lead to take ownership of our CNC programming function and play a key role in transforming custom exhibit, trade show, and experiential designs into precision-built components. This is a hands-on opportunity to own, develop, and continuously improve CNC programming processes while collaborating with designers, project managers, fabricators, and production teams. You’ll work at the intersection of design and manufacturing—translating creative intent into efficient CNC programs, optimizing material usage and machining processes, troubleshooting production challenges, and helping establish best practices as our capabilities grow.

Requirements

4+ years of CNC programming/manufacturing experience, ideally in custom fabrication, millwork, cabinetry, exhibits, or a related environment.
Strong experience programming CNC equipment and working with CNC production workflows.
Proficiency with AutoCAD 2D/3D or similar CAD software.
Strong understanding of materials, tooling, machining processes, tolerancing, and fabrication methods.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and translate design intent into manufacturable solutions.
Strong problem-solving skills and a hands-on, production-minded approach.
Ability to optimize programs for accuracy, efficiency, material utilization, and production speed.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and production priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

Experience in trade shows, exhibits, experiential marketing, millwork, scenic fabrication, or custom manufacturing.
Experience developing CNC processes or standards within a growing production environment.
Experience with nesting and material optimization.
Knowledge of ADA requirements and trade show/exhibit regulations.
Experience working directly with fabrication and installation teams.
Forklift experience.
Familiarity with value engineering and cost-conscious manufacturing.

Responsibilities

Own and develop CNC programming processes for custom exhibits, trade show booths, experiential environments, and specialty fabrication.
Translate 2D/3D designs and production drawings into CNC-ready files and efficient machining programs.
Program and optimize CNC equipment for cutting wood, plastics, foam, and other exhibit materials.
Select appropriate materials, tooling, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies for each application.
Continuously improve CNC workflows, programming standards, tooling strategies, and production efficiency.
Partner with Designers, Project Managers, Fabricators, and Estimators to determine the best approach for manufacturing complex components.
Troubleshoot CNC and fabrication challenges and develop practical solutions that improve quality and manufacturability.
Optimize material usage and machining time to support cost-effective, high-quality production.
Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and design intent to produce accurate components.
Set up CNC jobs and verify programs prior to production.
Inspect finished parts for dimensional accuracy and quality.
Maintain CNC files, libraries, tooling information, and programming documentation.
Help establish and maintain CNC standards and best practices as the department evolves.
Perform basic CNC equipment troubleshooting and preventative maintenance.
Utilize precision measuring tools including calipers, micrometers, depth gauges, and indicators.
Assist with material handling and operate forklifts as needed.
Reviewing designs for manufacturability and identifying potential issues before fabrication.
Making minor modifications to CAD files when needed to support CNC production.
Creating or updating select fabrication and assembly drawings.
Applying value engineering and manufacturing best practices to improve designs.
Supporting shop teams with technical information, dimensions, and production documentation.