CNC Programmer II

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. transforms the lives of people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities. Through employment opportunities, we are a catalyst for empowerment. We foster self-confidence and instill a life changing affirmation that independence is possible. From our expertise in cutting-edge technology to our understanding of mobility, we help people who are blind and DeafBlind live fulfilling lives.

We believe everyone, no matter their vision abilities, deserves to experience the power of employment. Our goal for each person we reach is to ignite a fire of determination that is centered on the reality that blindness doesn’t define who you are or how you choose to live.

We are currently seekinga person who identifies strongly with our mission and core values to join our team as CNC Programmer II. The ideal candidate for this role will be an experienced CNC programmer able to independently program 3- and 4-axis vertical/horizontal mills and CNC lathes in Mastercam (Mill, Lathe, Multiaxis), with Vericut verification. Aerospace machining background preferred; strong blueprint/GD&T and 3D model reading; designs 4-axis workholding and writes clear setup sheets; comfortable proving out programs on the floor alongside machinists.

Purpose:

Fully qualified programmer responsible for CNC programming and setup instructions for 3- and 4-axis mills and CNC lathes. Works under the technical direction of the Senior CNC Programmer to provide engineering, technical, and operational support so manufacturing operations are performed safely and efficiently by interpreting drawings, models, and specifications.

Responsibilities:

• Develops, edits, and optimizes CNC programs for 3- and 4-axis vertical/horizontal mills and CNC lathes, including 4th-axis indexing and simultaneous 4-axis toolpaths.
• Programs using Mastercam (Mill, Lathe, and Multiaxis), and verifies all programs in Vericut prior to release to the floor.
• Designs and specifies workholding for 4-axis work (rotary tables, trunnions, tombstones, and custom fixtures) to minimize setups and maximize spindle time.
• Selects cutting tools, feeds, and speeds; helps build and maintain the tool library.
• Creates clear setup sheets, tool lists, and operator instructions for each job.
• Proves out new programs at the machine, troubleshoots issues with operators, and supports first article inspection.
• Edits G-code at the control as needed.
• Creates dimensional drawings from full-scale templates (PCMs and tools) using the digitizer and measuring equipment.
• Reduces cycle times and scrap on existing parts through program and process improvements.
• Assists the estimator with setup and run times, and works with purchasing on material sizes for work packages.
• Follows department programming standards set by the Senior CNC Programmer and submits work for review as required.
• Maintains revision control and backups of all CNC programs per the Business Management System, including related quality processes.
• Communicates regularly with the department, management, and quality.
• Keeps current on industry processes, new technologies, equipment, and tooling.
• Ensures adherence to production safety and health standards, policies, and procedures.
• Immediately notifies the supervisor and/or Safety Manager of any safety and health concerns.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED required; vocational/technical degree or certificate in machining or CNC programming, or NIMS credentials, preferred.
• 5+ years of CNC programming experience, with at least 3 years programming 4-axis milling.
• 3+ years hands-on Mastercam experience (Multiaxis preferred); Vericut experience required or strongly preferred.
• Mastercam Certified Professional (Mill and/or Lathe) or equivalent certification preferred.
• Prior experience as a CNC machinist/setup person on mills and lathes.
• Strong working knowledge of G-code and M-code, and familiarity with [list the controls we run].
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and 3D models, with solid understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).
• Working knowledge of inspection methods and equipment (CMM, height gages, micrometers, bore gages, etc.).
• Experience machining a range of materials (aluminum, steels, stainless, and titanium/exotics if applicable).
• Experience with fixture design; SolidWorks or similar CAD experience preferred.
• Experience in an ISO 9001 / AS9100 quality environment preferred.
• Ability to estimate setup and run times accurately to support quoting.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, written, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work well with internal departments, customers, and suppliers.
• Consistent record of high-quality, accurate, detail-oriented work.
• Ability to work schedule as assigned.

Preferred:
• 5-axis programming experience.
• Experience with high-efficiency toolpaths (Dynamic Milling / HSM).
• Post processor editing experience.

Company benefits may include:

• 12 Paid Holidays per year
• Up to 17 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year
• Medical, Dental, and vision plans
• Long-term and short-term disability, AD&D
• Life Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with 6% employer match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Team Member Referral Bonus Program
• Paid Leave for Service Animal Training
• Focus on Upward Mobility
• Inclusive and Supportive Team Environment

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.