Loading jobs…
Loading jobs…
Whelen Engineering — Charlestown, Indiana
Summary: The CNC Programmer III is a senior‑level technical role responsible for advanced CNC programming, process development, and optimization of complex subtractive manufacturing operations. This position serves as a subject matter expert (SME) for multi‑axis CNC machining, complex fixturing strategies, and advanced tooling applications. The role supports production, new product introduction (NPI), continuous improvement initiatives, and provides technical leadership to lower‑level programmers and machinists.
The CNC Programmer III works cross‑functionally with Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure manufacturing processes meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives. ) · Experience working with materials such as aluminum, steel, stainless, and specialty alloys · Interfaces with: · Manufacturing Engineering · Quality (CMM inspection teams) · Machine Operators / Setup Technicians · Contributes to both prototype and production workflows · Operates with moderate supervision; expected to independently manage standard programming tasks · Develop, optimize, and validate CNC programs for complex machined components, including tight‑tolerance and multi‑setup parts. · Program 3‑, 4‑, and 5‑axis Simultaneous CNC milling and/or turning centers, including mill‑turn and multi‑spindle machines as applicable.
· Create and maintain CAM models, toolpaths, post‑processors, and setup documentation. · Select optimal cutting strategies, feeds/speeds, tooling, and work holding to maximize productivity and part quality. · Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues related to tool wear, chatter, thermal effects, and dimensional variation.
Process Development & Optimization · Lead machining process development for new product introductions (NPI) and engineering changes. · Reduce cycle time, setup time, scrap, and rework through continuous improvement initiatives. · Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective actions for machining‑related issues.
· Support Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and cost‑reduction efforts. · Technical Leadership & Mentorship · Provide technical guidance and mentorship to CNC Programmer I & II roles and machinists. · Establish and maintain best practices, programming standards, and documentation.
· Support training initiatives for CAM software, machine controls, and advanced machining techniques. · Serve as the primary technical escalation point for complex machining challenges. · Cross‑Functional Collaboration · Collaborate with Design Engineering to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM).
Requirements
, inspection plans, and control plans. · Coordinate with Production, Maintenance, and Tooling teams to ensure equipment readiness and process stability. · Support supplier machining capability assessments when needed.
· Documentation & Compliance · Create and maintain setup sheets, tooling lists, work instructions, and change documentation.
· Support audits and continuous improvement reviews as required.
Required Qualifications
· Education · Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field OR · Equivalent combination of education, technical training, and experience. · Experience · 7–10+ years of CNC programming experience in a subtractive manufacturing environment. ,Camworks, Mastercam, NX, PowerMill, ESPRIT, GibbsCAM, or similar).
0005" or tighter where applicable) o Complex GD&T interpretation · Previous experience supporting production and NPI environments.