CMM Programmer

Job Summary

The CMM / 3D Scan Programmer creates, validates, and maintains dimensional inspection programs for tactile CMMs and non-contact 3D scanning systems. This role is the plant's technical owner of inspection programs and equipment health: interpreting GD&T on customer drawings, building robust Polyworks, PC-DMIS and/or ZEISS Calypso programs, recovering equipment quickly when faults occur, and diagnosing whether a problem lies in the part, the fixture, the program, or the machine. The programmer works closely with Engineering, Production, and the Quality team to deliver accurate, timely dimensional data for production, launches, PPAP, and problem solving.

Responsibility

Responsible for the following:

Inspection Programming 

• Develop, debug, and optimize CMM programs in PC-DMIS and/or ZEISS Calypso from 2D drawings and 3D CAD models for as-cast and machined aluminum components. 

• Build alignments that correctly reflect the drawing's datum reference frame, including datum targets and datum schemes typical of castings. 

• Develop and maintain 3D scan inspection routines (surface comparison, sections, feature extraction) using structured-light scanning software such as ZEISS INSPECT / GOM, PolyWorks, or equivalent. 

• Select appropriate probe and stylus configurations, sampling strategies, filtering, and scan settings to balance measurement accuracy against cycle time. 

• Manage program revisions under document control and update programs promptly when drawings, CAD models, or customer requirements change. 

• Design or specify inspection fixtures and holding methods in collaboration with Engineering and validate fixtures before release. 

GD&T and Drawing Interpretation 

• Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and ISO GPS (ISO 1101 and related standards) as required by each customer. 

• Translate feature control frames, material condition modifiers, and datum precedence into correct measurement and evaluation methods. 

• Support drawing reviews and PPAP feasibility by identifying characteristics that are ambiguous, unmeasurable, or at risk with the planned inspection method. 

• Explain GD&T results clearly to engineers, operators, and customer representatives.

Equipment Recovery and Troubleshooting 

• Recover CMMs and scanning systems after crashes, collisions, E-stops, controller faults, communication losses, and software errors, restoring equipment to validated operating condition. 

• Perform probe and stylus qualification, reference sphere calibration, probe changer and rotary table checks, and scanner calibration and verification. 

• Diagnose the root cause of abnormal results, distinguishing among part condition, fixture and clamping, program logic, alignment, environmental (temperature, vibration, air supply), and machine issues. 

• Coordinate with OEM service providers (e.g., Hexagon, ZEISS) for repairs, annual calibration, and software support; provide clear fault descriptions and supporting evidence. 

• Maintain preventive maintenance schedules, critical spare parts (styli, probe modules, filters), and equipment downtime logs. 

• Develop recovery guides and quick-reference instructions so operators can safely handle common faults. 

Measurement System Integrity 

• Plan and conduct measurement system analysis (Gage R&R, bias, linearity, stability) per the AIAG MSA manual and customer-specific requirements. 

• Perform correlation studies between CMM, 3D scan, CT, and customer measurement results, and resolve discrepancies. 

• Monitor the metrology lab environment and apply temperature compensation practices appropriate for aluminum parts. 

• Support calibration records and measurement uncertainty considerations for audits. 

Launch, PPAP, and Problem-Solving Support 

• Generate full dimensional layouts, ballooned-drawing results, and capability data for PPAP submissions and new program launches. 

• Support tool and die trials with fast-turnaround dimensional data and clear deviation reporting. 

• Provide dimensional analysis for customer concerns, containment, and root cause investigations (8D, 5-Why, Ishikawa). 

• Present color maps, trend data, and dimensional findings to internal teams and customers. 

Reporting, Data, and Collaboration 

• Create clear, standardized inspection reports and maintain organized, traceable measurement data. 

• Feed dimensional data into SPC and statistical tools to support process control and trending. 

• Train and mentor Manager and supervisors to meet production and launch demands. 

• Follow all EHS requirements and maintain 5S standards in the metrology lab. 

• CMM operators and quality inspectors on program execution, part loading, and basic recovery. 

• Prioritize the inspection queue with the Quality 

• Other duties as assigned.

Academic/Educational Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or technical certificate in manufacturing, metrology, mechanical engineering technology, or related field preferred. 

Required Skills/Experience

• [3+] years of hands-on CMM programming experience in PC-DMIS and/or ZEISS Calypso in a manufacturing environment. 

• Strong working knowledge of GD&T per ASME Y14.5, including datum reference frames, profile, position, and material condition modifiers. 

• Ability to read complex engineering drawings and navigate 3D CAD models. 

• Demonstrated ability to recover inspection equipment after faults and to troubleshoot program and machine issues independently. 

• Working knowledge of MSA and basic statistical concepts (Cp/Cpk, variation, trend analysis). 

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. 

• Strong attention to detail, clear written and verbal communication, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. 

Preferred Skills/Experience

• Proficiency in both PC-DMIS and Calypso. 

• Formal training or certification in PC-DMIS (Hexagon), Calypso (ZEISS Academy), or GD&T (e.g., ASME GDTP). 

• Experience with structured-light 3D scanning (ZEISS COMET, ATOS, or similar) and inspection software such as ZEISS INSPECT / GOM or PolyWorks. 

• Exposure to industrial CT inspection for porosity and internal-feature evaluation. 

• Knowledge of ISO GPS and experience with European OEM drawings and requirements (VW, Mercedes- Benz). 

• Experience with HPDC or other cast components, including datum target schemes and as-cast surfaces. 

• Familiarity with IATF 16949, APQP, PPAP, and customer-specific requirements. 

• Experience with SPC or statistical software (e.g., Q-DAS, Minitab). 

What Linamar Has to Offer

• Competitive Compensation

• Employee Benefits package includes but not limited to, Medical, Dental, Vision and 401k etc. 

• Opportunities for career advancement.

• Sustainability Counsel 

• Community based outreach supporting both local and global initiatives and charities. 

• Discounts for local vendors and events, including auto supplier discounts.

About Us

Linamar Corporation is a Canadian diversified global manufacturing company of highly engineered products across global industries & markets. From the entrepreneurial seeds planted by our dynamic founder to the support provided along the way, all Linamar employees are poised for success in this fast-paced and rapidly growing environment. With access to the tools, you need to succeed, you will make an impact along with other motivated and engaged people.