Job Summary: Applied Composites (AC) is seeking a CAM/CNC Engineer to interpret electronic data (solid models) into CNC machine language to produce molds, tools, and parts to dimensional requirements.
About AC: Applied Composites is in Indianapolis, IN. AC takes pride in leading the industry in advanced composites engineering and manufacturing, while providing a professional and productive working environment. AC is a premier supplier of aviation and aerospace products and services, including engineering, radome repair and testing, aircraft repair, and tool production. At AC, employees are treated with respect and given the support, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBLITIES/FUNCTIONS
Essential Functions:
• Program (CAM) 5-axis machine for CNC operations using PowerMill and PowerShape software
• Run first article CNC programs and ensure dimensional/tolerance requirements
• Participate in brainstorming / problem solving with Engineering & Production personnel to solve related problems
• Perform machine calibrations on equipment
• Recommend new technology for improved efficiency and quality as needed
• Follow Standard Industrial practices for working with composites & other materials
• Communicate daily with Tooling, Engineering, Quality, and Scheduling department.
• Control setup sheets, documentation, and rev control of CNC programs
• Develop work instructions as required
• Support Engineering and/or CNC as needed
• Performs all other duties as assigned
Information Management: Treats all information and data within the organization and scope of the position and maintains confidentiality and security at all times.
Risk Management:
• Cooperates fully in all risk management activities and investigations.
• Reports promptly any suspected or potential violations to laws, regulations, procedures, policies and practices, and cooperates in related investigation.
• Conducts all transactions in compliance with all company policies, procedures, standards and practices.
Safety Requirements:
• Is knowledgeable of, observes and complies with Codes of Safe Practice, safety policies and emergency procedures.
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS AND CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT
Minimum Position Qualifications:
Education:
• CNC Programmer or Technology Degree or equivalent experience. Will consider a combination of both schooling and experience equivalent or a combination of relevant education and work experience that will allow for successful performance of the job expectations.
Computer Skills
• Proficient in MS Office Suite and database management tools.
• Proficient in PowerMill and PowerShape
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to effectively communicate with co-workers and others as necessary
• Ability to work alone with minimum supervision and with others in a team environment
• Standing for long periods of time
• Crouching, kneeling, bending, and reaching
• Close vision, color, peripheral, depth perception and the ability to focus
• Hearing sounds and communication
• Handling, grasping and operating tools and equipment
• Ability to lift 25-50 pounds
Knowledge / Skills / Abilities:
• 5 years’ experience as a CNC Programmer
• PowerMill and PowerShape Software experience preferred
• Understanding of material properties & characteristics
• Experience with associated CAD/CAM software
• Working knowledge of various measuring gages: micrometers, pin gages, dial indicator, screw pitch gage, height gage, and comparator stand/gage
• Ability to do trigonometry and geometrical math computations
• Ability to interact effectively with customers, peers, management, manufacturing personnel, and both technical and non-technical people.
• Experience in laminating Carbon Fiber, Fiberglass, Kevlar, or other composite material preferred
• Ability to troubleshoot processes
• Experience in reading blueprints and GD&T.
• Possess a strong technical background to understand and evaluate the technical specifications, requirements and capabilities associated with the project
• Ability to adapt and respond to changes in environment and priorities
• Ability to work independently and interface with cross-functional disciplines; using excellent interpersonal skills to drive tasks to completion
• Self-motivated with problem solving and decision-making skills
• Applicants must be a US Persons
Disclaimer - The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Skills Required
- CNC Programmer or Technology degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Five years of experience as a CNC Programmer
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite and database management tools
- Proficiency in PowerMill and PowerShape
- Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems
- Understanding of material properties and characteristics
- Experience with associated CAD/CAM software
- Experience using micrometers, pin gages, dial indicators, screw pitch gages, height gages, and comparator stands/gages
- Ability to perform trigonometry and geometrical math computations
- Experience laminating carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, or other composite materials
- Ability to troubleshoot processes
- Experience reading blueprints and GD&T
- Strong technical background for evaluating project specifications, requirements, and capabilities
- Ability to work independently and collaborate across technical and non-technical teams
- Applicants must be US Persons
- Ability to lift 25 to 50 pounds and perform prolonged standing, crouching, kneeling, bending, and reaching
Applied Composites Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Applied Composites and has not been reviewed or approved by Applied Composites.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and options like FSA/HSA, with disability coverage and an EAP also available. Wellness programs further contribute to overall health support.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Time off includes a vacation plan, wellness days, and 10 paid holidays each year. PTO accrual increases with tenure, expanding available leave over time.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) plan with employer matching is offered. This provides structured support for long‑term savings.
Applied Composites Insights
What We Do
Applied Composites is a leading provider of complex composite components, assemblies, engineering, and tooling to the aerospace, defense, and space systems markets. Vertically integrated with six strategic locations, we have widespread capabilities to serve expanding industry needs in many high-growth aerospace and defense platforms. Specializing in complex composite assemblies for the aerospace industry, Applied Composites has a long history of providing customer satisfaction by focusing on continuous improvement processes that help reduce time and cost. Our aerospace composite manufacturing capabilities are among the best in the industry.
