CNC Programmer/Manufacturing Engineer

The CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer develops, implements and improves the processes that turn customer drawings into finished, in-spec parts. You’ll own CNC programs for turning and milling (up to 5 axes), design the fixtures and tooling that make them run, and work directly with Team Leaders and Operators on the shop floor to keep production capable, efficient and cost-effective.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys solving tough manufacturing problems, from first-article setup on a new casting to cutting cycle time on a mature family of parts.

Key Responsibilities

CNC programming and process development Develop CNC programs for turning and milling operations, both manually and with CAD/CAM software (Esprit preferred). Troubleshoot, edit and optimize complex G-code programs on multi-axis equipment (up to 5 axes). Develop complete manufacturing processes to produce a part complete, applying current CNC machining techniques, tooling and lean principles.

Plan processes for medium-volume production, including families of parts. Tooling and fixturing Design and implement fixtures for castings and other irregularly shaped parts using Solid. Works. Select cutting tools and specify their proper application; create and maintain tooling lists. Documentation Create and maintain process routings, process drawings, CNC programs and tooling lists in the company ERP system and engineering files.

Provide machining times and tooling costs to support new product quotes and PPAP activities with the Manufacturing Project Engineer and Quality. Shop floor support and problem solving Troubleshoot CNC setups and processes on the shop floor alongside Team Leaders and Operators. Use statistical methods to evaluate process performance against specification and drive corrective action.

Cost, capacity and continuous improvement Estimate production times, staffing requirements and related costs to support quoting and capacity decisions. Lead and contribute to continuous improvement projects: brainstorming, data gathering and analysis, proposals built on cross-functional input, and cost justification for investments.

Work with tooling, equipment and subcontract vendors to define specifications and purchase equipment, materials and services, evaluating each for quality, fit and cost-effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required Proven track record developing creative, practical solutions for manufacturing mechanical components. Extensive CNC programming and metal-cutting experience on turning and milling equipment. Ability to troubleshoot and edit complex G-code programs, up to 5 axes. Hands-on experience designing and implementing fixtures, including for castings and irregular parts.

Strong knowledge of cutting tools and their proper application. Analytical, data-driven approach to problem solving, including basic statistical process evaluation. Strong interpersonal skills and a track record of working well with Team Leaders and Operators. Computer literate, with working knowledge of ERP systems and Microsoft Office.

CAD/CAM experience, especially Solid. Works. Preferred Experience with medium-volume production and families of parts. Background in valves, pumps, motors, seals or other fluid power components. Familiarity with lean manufacturing, cellular production and continuous improvement methods. Exposure to PPAP, ECN/PCN processes and quality documentation.

Education and Experience

Completed machinist apprenticeship or equivalent experience. 5+ years of experience in CNC programming and manufacturing engineering. Relevant college education (engineering or manufacturing technology) is a plus. Work Environment On-site role at our facility near O’Hare, split between the office and the production floor.

Regular time on the shop floor around operating CNC equipment; safety glasses and standard PPE required. Occasional domestic travel may be needed to support customers or vendors. Physical Demands The physical demands below are representative of those needed to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Regularly stand and walk on the production floor for extended periods and sit at a computer for programming and documentation work. Frequently use hands and fingers to handle parts, tools, gages and keyboards; reach with hands and arms. Occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, crouch or climb to access machines and fixtures. Regularly lift and move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds, such as fixtures, tooling and parts.

Close vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus are required to read drawings, inspect parts and work with precision measuring instruments. Exposure to moving mechanical parts, coolants, oils and metal chips; noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. Safety glasses, hearing protection and safety footwear are required on the floor.

Benefits

Health, Dental and Vision Insurance. 401(k) matching Paid time off plus 9 paid holidays Educational Assistance Yearly safety shoes allowance Opportunities for advancement QCC, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer EOE, M/F/D/V