Mastercam CNC Programming Specialist - Precision Aerospace Machining

Job Description

Job Description

About Space Machine & Engineering Corp. | St. Petersburg, FL

Step into a precision shop where your toolpaths set the pace for quality and delivery. From first light to final inspection, you’ll translate complex prints into efficient, reliable CNC programs that keep our aerospace and defense customers flying high. You’ll own the details—simulation, setup documentation, tooling choices—and collaborate with machinists, engineers, and quality pros to hit first-pass yield and on-time goals, every time.

• Reports to: Machine Shop Supervisor
• Hours: Flexible schedule; extended hours as needed
• Supervisory responsibilities: None

You’ll begin by reviewing travelers, blueprints, and GD&T, then craft Mastercam programs and toolpaths for CNC mills (3/4-axis VMCs and HMC). You’ll select tooling and fixtures, verify paths through Mastercam simulation, and account for downstream processes like plating or special finishes. On the floor, you’ll support setup and prove-outs, adjust feeds/speeds, and eliminate collisions or interference. Throughout the run, you’ll partner with Quality on first-piece, in-process, and AS9100 FAI activities—troubleshooting anything from tolerance stack-ups to workholding strategy—while continuously optimizing cycle time without sacrificing quality or safety.

• Interpret engineering drawings, specs, travelers, and GD&T.
• Develop, post, and control Mastercam CNC programs; maintain organized revisions.
• Set up and prove out CNC processes; support machinists during release to production.
• Select tooling, parameters, and workholding to meet dimensional and productivity targets.
• Optimize cutting strategies, feeds/speeds, and setups for cycle-time reduction.
• Incorporate allowances for outside processes (e.g., plating) into programming.
• Perform dimensional verification using precision metrology equipment.
• Identify and resolve programming, setup, or tolerance issues preventing conformity.
• Support first-piece, in-process, and final inspections; lead AS9100 FAI support.
• Execute robust simulations and toolpath verification to avoid collisions and over-travel.
• Create controlled setup documents: setup sheets, tool lists, fixtures, parameters, revisions.
• Drive continuous improvement—setup reduction, scrap reduction, first-pass yield, utilization.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, and Production to resolve issues and improve processes.

• Expert blueprint and GD&T interpretation; strong shop math and mechanical aptitude.
• Advanced CNC machining knowledge: tooling, workholding, feeds/speeds, best practices.
• Mandatory proficiency with Mastercam; working knowledge of G/M-code and controls.
• Proficient with precision inspection tools and methods.
• Independent troubleshooting of machining and programming issues.
• High attention to detail; strong process control and repeatability mindset.
• Effective organization, prioritization, and time management.
• Clear communication with Production, Engineering, Quality, and leadership.
• Eligibility: Must meet applicable U.S. person requirements tied to controlled work and customer contracts.
• Program from 2D drawings and 3D solid models/STEP files.
• Apply CAM simulation, verification, collision avoidance, and travel-limit awareness.
• Develop production-ready setup documentation, tooling plans, and fixture requirements.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training preferred.
• 5+ years of CNC programming in precision manufacturing; aerospace/defense strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated Mastercam programming experience required.
• Programming and support of CNC mills required; CNC lathe and Wire EDM experience preferred.
• Experience within AS9100 or similar regulated environments preferred.

• Achieve production and productivity goals and support reporting deadlines.
• Maintain quality standards and maximize first-pass yield.
• Deliver safe, efficient, repeatable, production-ready programs and processes.
• Maintain accurate program control and manufacturing documentation.

• GD&T, blueprint interpretation
• CNC programming, G/M-code
• Mastercam CAD/CAM, simulation, verification
• CNC tooling and workholding
• Cycle-time improvement and production optimization
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
• Advanced inspection and gauging; SPC
• Machine setup, changeover, geometry, alignment
• AS9100 quality systems; FAI support
• ITAR/export-controlled manufacturing awareness
• Industrial/manufacturing engineering fundamentals; file management
• 3D solid-model and STEP-file programming

• Haas CNC Mills: 3- and 4-axis VMCs; Haas EC-400 HMC
• Haas CNC Lathes
• Mastercam CAD/CAM
• Precision metrology and inspection equipment
• Wire EDM (where applicable)

• Occasional push, pull, lift, or move up to 50 lbs.
• Standing, walking, reaching, and typical shop activities for extended periods.
• Visual acuity for precision inspection; depth perception and peripheral vision.
• Hearing and coordination to work safely around manufacturing equipment.

• Precision manufacturing and machine-shop setting.
• Exposure to moving machinery, machining fluids, fumes, and airborne particles.
• Moderate noise levels; use of required personal protective equipment.

• 401(k) retirement plan eligibility
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Paid time off

Space Machine & Engineering Corp. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other classification protected by applicable law.

This summary reflects the core scope and expectations of the role but may evolve as operational priorities change.