Manufacturing Engineer

CNC Programmer - Lathe/ Turning (Mastercam)
Job Description

We are seeking a CNC Programmer to support CNC turning and machining operations within a precision manufacturing environment. This Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, programming, validating, and improving CNC machining processes from initial design through production release.
The ideal candidate combines CNC programming expertise with practical manufacturing knowledge and enjoys working closely with production teams to improve quality, efficiency, and process reliability. This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to manufacturing outcomes while supporting a variety of complex components and production requirements.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Review engineering drawings and determine appropriate manufacturing methods and machining strategies.
• Create and modify 3D models using SolidWorks to support manufacturing and programming activities.
• Develop CNC turning programs using Mastercam.
• Support machine setup, prove-out, testing, and process validation activities.
• Verify that manufacturing processes consistently produce parts that meet quality requirements.
• Collaborate with production personnel to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and improve performance.
• Measure and inspect components using standard precision measurement equipment.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements.
• Develop and refine manufacturing processes from concept through production release.
• Investigate machining issues and implement corrective actions to improve process stability.
• Optimize programs and machining methods to improve efficiency and repeatability.
• Support both new product introduction and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work closely with engineering, production, and leadership teams to implement manufacturing improvements.
• Assist with first article, validation, and process development activities.
• Contribute to ongoing operational excellence and process improvement efforts.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise programming CNC turning operations in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience working in CNC machining environments supporting precision components.
• Proficiency with Mastercam or similar CAM software.
• Experience utilizing SolidWorks or comparable CAD software.
• Understanding of G-Code and M-Code programming concepts.
• Experience supporting CNC machine setup, validation, troubleshooting, and process optimization.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements.
• Experience using precision measurement and inspection equipment.
• Knowledge of manufacturing process development and production support activities.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience collaborating across engineering and production functions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting highly regulated or precision manufacturing industries.
• Experience with CNC turning and milling operations.
• Familiarity with DNC systems or program management systems.
• Knowledge of tooling selection, workholding, and fixture design considerations.
• Experience supporting first article inspection and new product introduction activities.
• Exposure to lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience improving existing manufacturing processes and optimizing machining programs.
• Experience as a machinist, CNC setup machinist, CNC programmer, manufacturing engineer, process engineer, or similar manufacturing role.
• Practical experience supporting manufacturing process development and machine-side troubleshooting.

Work Environment

This position operates within a precision manufacturing environment supporting a variety of complex components and production requirements. The role involves regular interaction with manufacturing equipment, production personnel, and engineering teams. Candidates should be comfortable working in a collaborative setting that combines engineering problem-solving with hands-on manufacturing support.
The work environment emphasizes quality, process improvement, teamwork, and operational excellence. This position offers the opportunity to support a wide variety of manufacturing projects and contribute directly to the success of production operations.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Milford, CT.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $50.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Milford,CT.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 8, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.


If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.



San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.



Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.