Metal Prep Programmer

Ermco•Athens, GA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Metal Prep Programmer supports ERMCO’s fabrication operations by developing, optimizing, and managing CNC programs used in metal preparation. The role translates engineering designs and production requirements into machine programs that support quality, throughput, and schedule adherence across laser cutting, brake forming, folding, and related fabrication processes. It serves as the technical owner of programming activities in the Metal Preparation area and works with Engineering, Production Planning, Manufacturing, and Operations to develop efficient manufacturing methods, maximize material utilization, and meet production schedules. The position also develops and maintains production schedules for metal preparation equipment, coordinates programming priorities and provides technical support to machine operators. It contributes to quality assurance and continuous improvement by troubleshooting programming and production issues, maintaining program documentation and revision control, and supporting new products, equipment, software, and manufacturing technologies. The role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to balance production priorities while improving fabrication processes.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience in CNC, laser, or fabrication programming in a manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of CNC programming, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, and manufacturing processes.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
Working knowledge of CAD, ERP, and manufacturing software systems.
Strong problem-solving, organizational, and analytical skills, with a focus on quality and efficiency.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, including calipers, micrometers, and tape measures, and basic manufacturing math.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Technology, Drafting, Industrial Technology, or a related field; equivalent experience is considered.
Experience with laser cutting systems, nesting software, and CNC press brake programming.
Experience with Amada, Striker, or similar programming software.
High-volume manufacturing experience.
Experience with Infor ERP.

Responsibilities

Create, maintain, and optimize laser cutting programs and material nests using Mazak programming software.
Develop material nests to maximize sheet utilization, reduce scrap, and improve manufacturing efficiency.
Create and maintain Amada programs using Striker Systems software for large pole tank wall production and other fabrication needs.
Develop, modify, and optimize CNC press brake programs to support fabrication and dimensional accuracy.
Create and maintain folder programs for metal forming operations.
Review engineering drawings, specifications, and production requirements to determine manufacturing methods.
Validate programming accuracy through testing, troubleshooting, and program refinement.
Support new product introductions by creating manufacturing programs and developing processing methods.
Identify opportunities to improve machine throughput, reduce setup time, and increase production efficiency.
Develop and maintain daily and weekly production schedules for metal preparation equipment based on the master production schedule.
Coordinate with Production Planning, Engineering, and Operations to align programming priorities with business needs.
Monitor equipment capacity and workload to support effective resource utilization.
Communicate production schedules, priorities, and programming requirements to operators and supervisors.
Provide technical support to machine operators during setup, production runs, and troubleshooting.
Serve as a technical resource for fabrication processes and equipment.
Ensure programs meet quality standards and product specifications.
Investigate and resolve programming-related quality issues and production challenges.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost reduction.
Maintain program libraries, documentation, and revision control processes.
Support implementation of new equipment, software, and manufacturing technologies.
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
Follow ERMCO safety policies, procedures, and quality standards.
Collaborate across departments to support operational goals.
Adapt to changing production priorities and business needs.
Perform other duties as assigned.