Senior Manufacturing Engineer CNC Programmer
Odessa, TX
Senior Manufacturing Engineer CNC Programmer
Programs and optimizes CNC turning, milling, and mill-turn operations, including G-code, CAM, and DNC support, while working with machinists on setup, prove-out, and process improvement. Requires Fusion 360 CAM, CNC turning/milling experience, GD&T, and 7+ years preferred.
We are seeking a highly skilled CNC Programmer responsible for programming, optimizing, and supporting production across a diverse fleet of CNC lathes, mills, and multi-axis machining centers. This role requires deep hands-on knowledge of turning, milling, mill-turn, live tooling, sub-spindles, and Y-axis machines across multiple OEM platforms.
The ideal candidate is equally comfortable writing G-code at the control, programming offline using CAM software (Fusion 360 included), managing DNC systems, and collaborating directly with machinists, tooling, and engineering to continuously improve throughput, quality, and repeatability.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Key Responsibilities
CNC Programming & Optimization
DNC & Program Management
Process & Manufacturing Support
Documentation & Controls
Continuous Improvement
EQUIPMENT ENVIRONMENT
The programmer will support and program equipment including (but not limited to):
CNC Lathes / Turning Centers
CNC Mills / Machining Centers
Mill-Turn / Multi-Tasking
Automation & Accessories
Working Conditions:
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Technical Skills
Programming & CAM
Shop Floor Competence
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate is equally comfortable writing G-code at the control, programming offline using CAM software (Fusion 360 included), managing DNC systems, and collaborating directly with machinists, tooling, and engineering to continuously improve throughput, quality, and repeatability.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Key Responsibilities
CNC Programming & Optimization
- Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs for turning, milling, and mill-turn operations
- Program and synchronize multi-axis machines including live tooling, Y-axis, C-axis, and sub-spindles
- Create programs using CAM software including Fusion 360 (and other CAM platforms as applicable)
- Write, edit, and troubleshoot G-code directly at the machine control
- Actively optimize cycle times, toolpaths, tool life, and machine utilization
- Standardize programming methods and best practices across machines and controls
DNC & Program Management
- Manage and support DNC systems for program storage, transfer, revision control, and traceability
- Maintain organized, version-controlled program libraries
- Ensure correct programs and revisions are deployed to the shop floor
- Support communication between CAM, control, and machine networks
Process & Manufacturing Support
- Work directly with machinists during setup, prove-out, and production
- Incorporate machinist feedback into program improvements and process refinements
- Support first-article inspections and production launches
- Specify tooling, fixturing, and cutting strategies appropriate to material and machine capability
- Troubleshoot issues related to tooling, workholding, material behavior, or programming
Documentation & Controls
- Create and maintain setup sheets, tooling lists, and process documentation
- Support GD&T interpretation and inspection strategy alignment
- Maintain clear program notes and operator-facing documentation
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve throughput, OEE, and cost per part
- Reduce scrap, rework, and setup time through disciplined process improvement
- Support lean manufacturing and standard work initiatives
- Assist with new equipment integration and process capability development
EQUIPMENT ENVIRONMENT
The programmer will support and program equipment including (but not limited to):
CNC Lathes / Turning Centers
- Haas: SL-20T, ST-15, ST-20T, ST-30, ST-35
- Doosan: Lynx 220LSYC, PUMA TT1800SY, PUMA 300C
- Mori Seiki: NL3000MC/1250, Duraturn 2050, Duraturn 2300
- Mazak: ST40N
- Daewoo / Puma: 400B
- Hitachi Seiki: CH250
- Kingston: CHR4000
- CuTex 180A YML
CNC Mills / Machining Centers
- Haas: VF-2, VF-4, MV6030/50
- Kira: KN-30VA
- Kia: H63
- Chevalier: FBL-1233 / FBL-1233B
- Mori Seiki: 586
Mill-Turn / Multi-Tasking
- Mazak Integrex 35 (multiple machines)
- Mori Seiki NL series with live tooling
- Doosan TT and SY platforms
Automation & Accessories
- LNS Alpha SL65S bar feeders
- Sub-spindles, live tooling, Y-axis, C-axis
- Parts catchers, probes, and tool setters (as equipped)
Working Conditions:
- Primarily shop floor environment with exposure to manufacturing equipment, moderate noise, and materials handling.
- Requires standing, walking, bending, and lifting parts or materials up to 50 lbs.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Technical Skills
- Strong proficiency in CNC turning and milling
- Proven experience with:
- Live tooling, Y-axis, C-axis, and sub-spindles
- Mill-turn programming and synchronization
- Multi-OEM control environments (Haas, Fanuc, Mazatrol)
- Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T
- Solid understanding of feeds, speeds, chip control, tool wear, and thermal effects
Programming & CAM
- Experience with Fusion 360 CAM (required)
- Experience with additional CAM platforms (Mastercam, NX, Gibbs, etc.) a plus
- Strong G-code literacy and troubleshooting capability
- Comfortable working with both modern and legacy CNC controls
Shop Floor Competence
- Hands-on, production-focused mindset
- Comfortable spending time on the shop floor supporting machinists
- Able to diagnose and correct real-world machining problems-not just theoretical ones
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years CNC programming experience in a high-mix or complex machining environment
- Direct experience programming Mazak Integrex and Mori Seiki mill-turn platforms
- Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering background
- Experience supporting bar-fed and lights-out operations
- Lean / Six Sigma experience a plus