Programmer Machinist

Job Description

Job Description

TITLE:                          Programmer Machinist

BASED AT:                   Harken, Inc., Pewaukee, WI

STATUS:                      Non-Exempt/Hourly, 1st Shift, Full-Time

Join the Harken Team: Innovating for Over 50 Years

Harken, Inc. is a global leader in innovative solutions for the marine and safety industries. Headquartered in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, with manufacturing facilities in the USA and Italy, we take pride in our world-class engineering, craftsmanship, and dedication to excellence.

Our global footprint spans 48 countries, supported by group offices in exciting locations like Australia, France, Italy, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, the UK, and across the United States—from Rhode Island to Washington.

For over half a century, Harken's Marine Division has set the industry standard for pulley blocks, deck hardware, winches, and hydraulics, serving sailboats ranging from 8 to over 300 feet. Building on this strong foundation, Harken is charting new courses with our Safety and Rescue Division, unlocking opportunities for innovation and growth.

The Opportunity:

Harken is seeking a Programmer Machinist to join our team.  This role is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC machining centers, with a primary focus on mills, to manufacture custom precision components. This role works from engineering drawings, CAD models, and customer specifications to develop efficient machining processes, produce high-quality parts, and meet production deadlines. The position requires close collaboration with engineering, quality, and production teams to troubleshoot machining challenges, improve manufacturing processes, and support custom, low-volume, and prototype production while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

What you will do:

• Program, set up, and operate CNC milling machines to manufacture custom and prototype components

• Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs using CAM software and machine controls to maximize efficiency and part quality

• Interpret blueprints, CAD models, work instructions, and GD&T to determine machining requirements

• Select appropriate tooling, cutting parameters, and machining strategies for a variety of materials

• Perform machine setups, including fixture installation, tool offsets, and program verification

• Monitor machine performance and report any variations from specifications

• Recommend tooling arrangements, fixtures, and operation sequences to improve efficiency and quality

• Use a variety of precision measuring instruments to inspect and verify parts

• Support multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, custom manufacturing environment while meeting production schedules and delivery commitments

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment

• Follow all company safety procedures and quality standards

• Other duties and projects as assigned

What you bring:

Minimum Qualifications:

• 5 years of CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment

• CAM programming experience and setup skills

• High School diploma or GED equivalent

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent knowledge of machining practices, Mills experience preferred

• Experience with MasterCAM

• Experience programming 3-axis or 5-axis CNC mills

• Custom low run/R&D experience

• Experience using precision measuring instruments

• Experience reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings

Key Skills for Success include:

• Ability to perform mathematical calculations using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work

• Effective time management and organizational skills to prioritize multiple jobs

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to machining processes and equipment

Why you will love working at Harken:

What truly sets Harken apart is our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and the unique culture of ownership it fosters. Every team member is empowered to think and act like an owner, driving a workplace culture built on drive, humility, ingenuity, integrity, and ownership. At Harken, you’re not just an employee—you’re a valued stakeholder in our future.

At Harken, our work is guided by five core values:

• Drive – Taking initiative, setting ambitious goals, and pursuing excellence

• Humility – Welcoming feedback, learning from others, and prioritizing team success

• Ingenuity – Solving complex problems with practical, elegant solutions

• Integrity – Delivering honest work and upholding the highest standards

• Ownership – Taking pride in our products, our people, and our future

Why join Harken :

• Employee-owned company (ESOP)

• Growing global organization

• Modern, clean, and organized manufacturing environment

• Opportunity to work with advanced CNC equipment and precision components

• Long service machinists who provide mentorship and support your growth

• Strong culture of craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement

• Internal growth opportunities and ongoing skills development

• 401(k) that includes a company match

• Competitive medical, dental and vision insurance coverage

• Employee assistance program

• Flexible spending account and health savings account

• Life insurance

• Paid time off after 90-day probationary period

• Unpaid excused absences and 9 paid holidays off

• Employee referral program

• Tuition reimbursement

• On-site Gym

• Climate controlled work environment

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Submit your resume via email to: View email address on ziprecruiter.com      

Harken is an equal opportunity employer.

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