Computer Numerical Control Programmer

About the Company

Baker Engineering, LLC’s (Baker) core business centers around the design and development of high-tech, high-performance technologies for a variety of applications, from custom military and commercial engines, to engine components, to the production of parts and mechanical assemblies for other industries. Baker is a division of Waséyabek Development Company, LLC that is wholly owned by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, a Federally recognized Indian Tribe.

About the Role

The Senior CNC Programming Specialist collaborates with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams to develop, optimize, and maintain CNC machining processes for prototype and production components. This position is responsible for CNC programming, process development, fixture design support, machine reliability, preventative maintenance coordination, continuous improvement initiatives, quoting support, and technical leadership. The Specialist develops efficient machining strategies utilizing Mastercam software while supporting machine uptime, tooling optimization, manufacturing workflow improvements, and production readiness. This role serves as one of the primary technical resources for CNC manufacturing throughout the organization.

Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

CNC Programming & Process Development

• Create, modify, optimize, and maintain CNC programs using Mastercam for multi-axis milling and turning operations.
• Develop machining strategies that maximize efficiency, tool life, and quality.
• Write CNC programs both offline and directly at CNC machines.
• Develop standardized machining processes for prototype and production work.
• Create setup documentation, tooling sheets, and operator instructions.
• Maintain revision control for CNC programs and manufacturing documentation.
• Troubleshoot programming issues and implement corrective actions.
• Continuously improve cycle times while maintaining quality standards.

Manufacturing Engineering

• Evaluate new manufacturing opportunities for feasibility and manufacturability.
• Assist estimating by providing machining strategies, cycle time estimates, tooling recommendations, and quote input.
• Develop complete manufacturing workflows for new products.
• Support prototype development, including military and commercial programs.
• Collaborate with Engineering regarding fixture concepts and manufacturing improvements.
• Assist with fixture design and workholding improvements.
• Specify and order cutting tools, fixtures, and manufacturing materials.

Machine Reliability & Process Optimization

• Monitor CNC machine performance and identify opportunities to improve reliability.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance activities with maintenance personnel.
• Assist in troubleshooting machine, tooling, fixture, and process issues.
• Support machine changeovers and process validation.
• Analyze production data to identify recurring manufacturing issues.
• Recommend equipment upgrades and process improvements.
• Support predictive maintenance efforts by monitoring machine performance trends.
• Improve machine utilization and reduce downtime through continuous improvement initiatives.

Production Support

• Set up and validate new jobs.
• Build prototype and production parts to specification.
• Support first article inspections and process validation.
• Perform part quality verification as required.
• Assist production personnel with technical machining issues.
• Optimize tooling and machining parameters.
• Participate in root cause investigations for quality concerns.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Mentor programmers, machinists, and setup personnel.
• Train operators on machining best practices and basic troubleshooting.
• Lead technical problem-solving efforts.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop manufacturing standards and best practices.
• Support ISO/AS quality system requirements.
• Promote safe manufacturing practices throughout the facility.

Communication

• Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Production departments.
• Effectively communicate project status and technical recommendations.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and manufacturing documentation.
• Support company values, vision, and mission.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 5 years CNC programming experience.
• Advanced experience programming multi-axis CNC milling and turning centers.
• Advanced proficiency with Mastercam.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
• Experience developing manufacturing processes.
• Experience troubleshooting machining issues.
• Working knowledge of tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, and machining dynamics.
• Ability to independently manage multiple technical projects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to pass background investigation.
• U.S. Citizenship required (ITAR compliance).

Required Skills

• CNC programming for multi-axis milling and turning operations.
• Mastercam proficiency.
• GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
• Manufacturing process development.
• Troubleshooting machining issues.
• Tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, and machining dynamics knowledge.
• Technical project management.
• Problem-solving.
• Written and verbal communication.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.

Preferred Skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• Lean Manufacturing experience.
• Six Sigma training or certification.
• ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 experience.
• Experience with ERP/MRP manufacturing systems.
• Experience with robotics or CNC automation.
• CAM