CNC Programmer (Mill/5-axis)
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 6, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 15, 2026. Impulse Space scores A on the Alion truth index.
Our CNC Programmer role at Impulse will possess comprehensive knowledge of CNC machining and programming operations, with a strong emphasis on 5-axis machining and programming. This role is tasked with developing and optimizing machining programs, working directly with 5-axis and other CNC machines, and interfacing with engineering teams, leadership, machinists, and operations to optimize machining programs and procedures.
Responsibilities
- Fast pace of execution to deliver parts needed for engine, vehicle, avionics and test development
- Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot 5-axis CNC machining programs primarily using hyperMILL
- Work with various CAD/CAM software (hyperMILL, NX, ESPRIT, etc.) and demonstrate a strong ability to learn and become an expert in new software rapidly
- Produce hardware on various machines and OEM software including Siemens, Mazatorl, Haas NGC, etc.
- Familiarity managing digital tool libraries to increase shop throughput and managing tool magazines
- Knowledgeable of carbide tools and adjusting speed and feed parameters for various cutting strategies
- Able and ready to offer suggestions on drawing or design changes to improve manufacturability
- Ability to program billet parts with minimal fixturing by using stock tabs, frames or otherwise
- Design and machine scrappy fixture tooling on the fly and as needed to manufacture parts rapidly.
- Constantly keep products moving and alerting management when bottlenecks are encountered
- Provide consistent ideas for process improvements
- Operate machines equipped with automation (pallet pools, expanded magazines, bar feeders, etc.)
- Develop robust on machine inspection strategies that enable low risk, efficient, lights out manufacturing of complex components
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 5+ years of CNC programming experience using various CAM packages (hyperMILL, NX, Mastercam, ESPRIT, etc.)
- 4+ years of hands-on experience programming and machining 5-axis mills and/or 5-axis mill-turns
- Demonstrated experience on manual and CNC mills and/or lathes
- Demonstrated ability to rapidly pick up new CAM software and manage large tool libraries
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Demonstrated experience setting up machine shops, recommending and evaluating capital for purchase
- Demonstrated experience with Hermle 5-axis machines and/or Hermle automation systems with Siemens controllers
- 4+ years of demonstrated experience programming turbomachinery, with experience programming in MAX-PAC
- Python programming experience or similar
- Experience programing machines and developing machining and inspection cycles to be run unattended
Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space’s spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.