Sheet Metal Programmer

STULZ•Denton, TX

17d•Hybrid

About The Position

Responsible for translating engineering drawings, take-off sheets, and CAD files into fabrication-ready programs for the department's Amada laser cutting, punch/laser combination, and CNC press brake equipment. Works within Amada's programming and nesting software (4iE Amada / AP100 CAM environment and associated offline programming and nesting tools) to select tooling, sequence operations, and optimize material yield, serving as the technical link between engineering and the shop floor for all sheet metal fabrication programs.

Requirements

Proven proficiency with Amada CAM/nesting software (4iE Amada, AP100, or similar) or comparable sheet metal nesting/programming software.
Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints, structural drawings, and take-off sheets.
Solid understanding of sheet metal geometry, bend allowances/k-factors, tooling selection, and fabrication standards.
Working knowledge of CNC laser cutting, punch/laser combination, and press brake processes.
High attention to detail, strong mathematical skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment.
1-3 years of experience entering orders or programming in a sheet metal fabrication shop (HVAC or industrial equipment industry preferred).
Experience with ERP/MRP systems for job routing and material issue preferred; SAP preferred.
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, drawings, and models.
Ability to read and understand English instructions, blueprints, and technical specifications.
Must possess, as a minimum, basic Algebra and Geometry, including the ability to calculate bend allowances, angles, and material yield.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or technical certificate in CAD/CAM, drafting, manufacturing technology, or a related field preferred.
Amada or equivalent CAM software training/certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Translate mechanical blueprints, take-off sheets, and CAD/DXF files into fabrication-ready programs for CNC laser cutting, punch/laser combination, and press brake equipment.
Program and maintain cut files, nests, and bend sequences within Amada's CAM/nesting software (4iE Amada, AP100, or equivalent), keeping tooling libraries, material libraries, and machine parameters current.
Select and assign correct tooling (laser lens/nozzle configuration, punch tools, press brake punches and dies) for each job based on material type, gauge, and part geometry.
Input precise dimensions, bend allowances, radii, and gauge specifications to ensure first-piece accuracy and minimize rework.
Execute nesting operations to maximize material yield and minimize scrap across standard and custom sheet sizes.
Verify material type (e.g., galvanized, galvanneal, stainless steel, aluminum), thickness, and lining/finish requirements before releasing programs to the shop floor.
Simulate programs and review for collisions, tool interference, and cycle-time efficiency prior to release; troubleshoot and correct program errors identified during setup or first-piece inspection.
Coordinate with the shop supervisor/foreman and Production Planning to sequence and prioritize the fabrication queue and meet production deadlines.
Partner with Engineering on drawing questions, design-for-manufacturability feedback, and revision control of released programs.
Maintain accurate program revision records and documentation in accordance with the department's document control practices.
Support new equipment and software implementation, including validating post-processors, tooling data, and nesting parameters for newly installed Amada machines.
Train and provide technical support to machine operators on program intent, tooling changeovers, and in-process adjustments.
Support continuous improvement initiatives that reduce cycle time, scrap, and tooling changeovers.
Maintain compliance with ISO standards and applicable company quality requirements.
Perform other duties as assigned.