CNC Programmer

Job Description

Job Description

CNC Programmer

Location: Mendota Heights, MN

Department: Operations

Type: Full-time

What You'll Be Doing:

As a CNC Programmer, you'll play a critical role in supporting our tooling and manufacturing operations by programming CNC Vertical Machining Centers and inspection equipment to produce high-precision components. You'll work closely with engineering, toolroom, quality, and production teams to optimize machining processes, improve efficiency, and ensure products meet the highest quality standards.

A Day in the Life:

• Program, edit, and optimize CNC milling programs using CAM software such as Mastercam or GibbsCAM

• Create machining programs for CNC Vertical Machining Centers to manufacture tooling components and precision parts

• Program and maintain the InspecVision optical inspection system to support automated quality verification and inspection processes

• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, technical drawings, and GD&T requirements to determine optimal machining strategies

• Develop detailed setup and program sheets outlining machine setups, tooling requirements, pickup points, tool paths, and grind stock specifications

• Troubleshoot machining and programming issues to minimize downtime and maintain production schedules

• Analyze machining processes and implement improvements to increase efficiency, reduce cycle times, and improve quality

• Purchase and maintain inventory of cutting tools and tooling materials based on tooling BOMs and production requirements

• Monitor tool performance and tool life while coordinating timely replenishment of critical inventory

• Collaborate with design engineers, operators, quality personnel, and production leadership to support manufacturing objectives

• Maintain accurate program documentation and update programs to reflect engineering changes, customer requirements, and process improvements

• Stay current on advancements in CNC programming, machining technologies, and manufacturing best practices

• Follow all safety procedures, quality standards, and company policies

You're a Great Fit If You:

• Have 5+ years of CNC milling programming experience in a metal stamping manufacturing environment

• Are highly proficient with CAM software such as Mastercam, GibbsCAM, or similar programming platforms

• Have a strong understanding of G-code programming, CNC machining principles, tooling selection, feeds, and speeds

• Can confidently read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T specifications

• Are skilled at troubleshooting machining and programming challenges while maintaining production efficiency

• Have strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality

• Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams

• Excel at organization, inventory management, and meeting production deadlines

• Value safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Preferred Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical degree or related manufacturing education preferred

• 5+ years of CNC milling programming experience within a metal stamping manufacturing environment

• Experience programming and supporting optical inspection systems

• Knowledge of tooling procurement, inventory management, and cutting tool optimization

• Experience supporting toolroom and die manufacturing operations

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, and move frequently throughout the workday

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally

• Physical stamina to perform repetitive tasks and maintain focus throughout the shift

• Good vision, depth perception, and manual dexterity required for programming verification, inspections, and manufacturing support

Why Work With Us?

Join a collaborative manufacturing environment where your programming expertise directly impacts production efficiency, tooling performance, and product quality. You'll work with advanced machining and inspection technologies while helping drive continuous improvement initiatives that support precision manufacturing excellence.

Department: Operations

Hire Type: Full-Time

Pay Range: $24 – $30/hr

Location: Saint Paul, MN

You should be proficient in:

• GD&T
• CNC Programming

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC) (Fanuc, Bridgeport)