CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer

As a growing aerospace manufacturer, we are seeking two CNC Programmers / Manufacturing Engineers to join the team in the Hartford, CT area, at the senior and mid levels. This is a hands-on, shop-floor role where you’ll program VTLs, mills, and lathes, prove out first articles, and help build the processes behind critical aerospace and defense components. Pay is $90,000-$115,000 plus a 5% bonus opportunity.

The site is in a period of rapid growth. It’s on track to become a $100 million operation within three years, has already added a second shift, and is modernizing its equipment. The right person is a former machinist turned programmer who loves being on the floor and wants to help take a growing operation to the next level.

What You’ll Do as the CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer:

• Program CNC VTLs, mills, and lathes using Mastercam, focusing on medium- to large-diameter ring work from 24 to 64 inches
• Modify and optimize existing CNC programs to improve cycle times, tooling strategies, and machine utilization
• Set up and run first article parts, verify them with hand gauges, and release jobs to production
• Determine manufacturing methods, sequences, fixturing, raw materials, and inspection methods
• Create setup sheets, operation sheets, and process documentation for the shop and outside vendors
• Develop routings, apply time standards, and enter routing data into the company’s systems
• Design fixtures and support tooling development
• Provide detailed quotes and estimates for precision-machined components
• Troubleshoot machining and process issues directly on the production floor
• Help modernize older equipment and support equipment relocation and production redistribution projects
• Partner with machinists, production, quality, and vendors, and balance multiple priorities based on customer demand
• Lead continuous improvement efforts as part of the company’s lean and Industry 4.0 initiatives

Must-Haves as the CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer:

• 5+ years of CNC programming or manufacturing engineering experience
• Mastercam programming experience
• Experience programming CNC VTLs, mills, and lathes
• Hands-on machinist background, with the ability to run and fully understand CNC machines
• Experience setting up and running first article parts, including hand gauge verification
• Strong GD&T knowledge, with the ability to read and explain blueprint callouts
• A hands-on approach and the desire to spend real time on the production floor
• Openness to direct feedback and coaching
• U.S. person status (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) to satisfy ITAR requirements
• A bachelor’s degree, 5-10 years of related experience or training, or an equivalent combination
• Ability to work onsite in the Hartford, CT area

Nice-to-Haves as the CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Engineer:

• Siemens NX CAD experience
• Experience with additional CAD/CAM or verification software
• Experience programming and running older or legacy machine tools
• Tool room experience
• Fixture and tooling design experience
• Quoting and estimating experience
• Aerospace, defense, or other precision machining experience
• Large-part turning or ring work experience
• Experience with ERP systems such as Infor LN or Baan

Offers:

• Base salary of $90,000-$115,000, depending on experience, with flexibility for an exceptional candidate
• 5% bonus opportunity
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one, with a choice of PPO and high-deductible plans
• An HSA with company contributions on the high-deductible plan
• A wellness program that lowers medical premiums when you complete your annual preventive exam
• 401(k) eligibility on day one, with a company match of 3% on the first 6% you contribute
• PTO you can use right away, plus a floating holiday
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $3,000 per year
• Disability and voluntary life insurance
• A first-shift, salaried schedule
• A structured 30-60-90 day onboarding plan with a buddy system
• The chance to grow with a rapidly expanding site supporting commercial aviation, defense, and space programs