CNC Programmer/ Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Title: CNC Programmer / Estimator

Location: Houston, TX Area

Duration: Full-Time

Work Requirements: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Summary

We are seeking a CNC Programmer / Estimator to support a high-capability precision manufacturing environment serving aerospace, oil and gas, automotive, and advanced industrial markets.

This is not a basic programming role. This position operates as a hybrid across CNC programming, manufacturing estimating, and shop floor troubleshooting. The right candidate will split time between office-based responsibilities such as quoting and programming, and hands-on involvement on the production floor proving out programs and supporting machinists.

This role exists due to continued business growth and shifting customer demand. It requires someone who is adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of moving work efficiently from print to production in a fast-paced job shop environment.

Responsibilities

CNC Programming & Production Support

• Develop CNC programs using Mastercam or similar CAM software
• Prove out new programs on the shop floor and make real-time adjustments
• Troubleshoot machining and programming issues alongside machinists and operators
• Support multi-axis machining including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis environments
• Collaborate with shop personnel to improve programming efficiency and production flow

Estimating & Quoting

• Review customer drawings and specifications to support quoting efforts
• Estimate cycle times, setup times, and overall production requirements
• Evaluate tooling, workholding, and machining approach during quoting
• Support accurate and timely responses to customer quote requests

Process Improvement

• Contribute to fixture design and machining strategy development
• Identify opportunities to improve cycle times and programming efficiency
• Support continuous improvement across production and estimating workflows

Qualifications

Required:

· Strong CNC programming experience using Mastercam or similar CAM software

· Experience estimating cycle times and setup times in a machining environment

· Ability to create and prove out CNC programs on the shop floor

· Solid understanding of tooling selection and machining processes

· Experience with both lathe and mill operations

· Strong blueprint reading and model interpretation skills

· Experience working with tight tolerance components

· Ability to troubleshoot machining issues in a production environment

· Strong communication skills and ability to operate between office and shop floor

Preferred:

· Background as a machinist prior to transitioning into programming or estimating

· Experience with high-performance or exotic materials such as Inconel, Monel, or Hastelloy

· Experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced oil and gas machining environments

· Experience with fixture design and process development

· Familiarity with Haas, Okuma, or Fanuc-controlled machines

· Experience in small-part, high-mix job shop environments

Work Environment

• Clean, organized, and air-conditioned facility
• Quality-focused, methodical production environment
• High variety of work across multiple industries
• Structured workflow with strong leadership visibility
• Collaborative, team-oriented shop culture

EEO Statement

Summa Staffing Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.