CAM Machinist

Powell • Houston, TX

21h

About The Position

The CNC Programmer and Operator oversees advanced machining, programming, and prototype development activities within Powell’s Research and Development organization. The role supports new product designs and existing product lines by ensuring components meet quality, performance, and manufacturability standards. It develops CNC programs, sets up and operates equipment to produce precision prototype components, interprets engineering drawings, and collaborates with design engineers to improve part design and manufacturability for production. The role also verifies quality and traceability, troubleshoots and optimizes machining processes, mentors personnel, supports documentation and continuous improvement, assists with equipment maintenance and calibration, and provides input on vendors, tooling, and capital equipment.

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• At least 8 years of experience in CNC programming and operation.
• Expertise in CNC programming, setup, and operation for precision components and prototypes.
• Working knowledge of Autodesk Inventor and other CAD/CAM platforms for modeling, design modification, and toolpath generation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of CNC machining principles, G-code programming, and multi-axis milling and turning operations.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, GD&T, material properties, and manufacturing methods for prototype and production environments.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting detailed engineering drawings, electrical and mechanical schematics, and solid models.
• Ability to apply quality assurance and control techniques for dimensional and tolerance verification.
• Strong troubleshooting and process optimization skills to improve machining efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Nice To Haves

• Associate's degree in a technical field or machine operation.

Responsibilities

• Develop CNC programs, set up and operate CNC equipment to produce precision prototype components for R&D and production projects.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings and collaborate with design engineers to improve part design and manufacturability when transferred to production.
• Inspect and verify machined parts against specified tolerances and quality requirements, maintaining traceability and documentation.
• Diagnose and resolve machining or programming issues and recommend process improvements to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.
• Train, mentor, and provide expert guidance to R&D and machine shop personnel on machining best practices, tooling, and materials.
• Support documentation and workflow updates for continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with equipment maintenance, calibration, and setup verification as needed.
• Provide input on vendor selection, tooling purchases, and capital equipment justification.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance for employees and their families.
• 401(k) savings.
• Annual bonus potential.
• Generous paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Company-sponsored wellness programs.
• Collaborative work environment.
• Opportunities for advancement and promotion while maintaining work-life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED