Sr. CMM Programmer

Job Title: Senior CMM Programmer / Metrology Specialist (Zeiss Calypso)
Industry: Precision CNC Machining
Experience Level: Senior (10+ Years Preferred)
Shift: First Shift
Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior CMM Programmer / Metrology Specialist to support precision CNC machining operations with tight tolerances (±.0004” or better). This role requires deep expertise in programming Zeiss CMM equipment using Calypso, ensuring full conformance with customer print specifications and GD&T requirements.

The ideal candidate will serve as a technical authority in metrology, with a strong ability to analyze, interpret, and validate CMM measurement results, and hands-on expertise in both CMM fixturing and manual inspection methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Program and operate Zeiss CMM equipment (Calypso) in strict accordance with customer prints, GD&T, and engineering specifications
• Develop and optimize inspection programs for complex CNC machined components with tight tolerances (±.0004” or better)
• Serve as subject matter expert in determining accuracy, validity, and repeatability of CMM results
• Design, build, and utilize CMM fixtures to ensure proper part orientation, stability, and measurement repeatability
• Perform and support manual inspection using precision gauges (calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and hard gauges)
• Interpret and analyze dimensional data to identify trends, variation, and root causes of non-conformance
• Collaborate with engineering and CNC machining teams to resolve tolerance and quality issues
• Lead and support First Article Inspection (FAI) and PPAP submissions
• Improve inspection efficiency through program optimization and measurement strategy development
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to quality and metrology processes

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in CMM programming and metrology within a precision machining environment
• Strong experience with Zeiss CMM systems, Gear pro and Calypso software
• Proven ability to program CMMs in conformance with customer print specifications
• Expert-level understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5)
• Demonstrated expertise in interpreting and validating CMM results
• Experience working with tight tolerances (±.0004” or better)
• Hands-on experience with CMM fixturing, including setup, alignment, and repeatability considerations
• Strong experience with manual inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and hard gauges)
• Strong problem-solving skills and experience with root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, etc.)
• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering and manufacturing teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, or related field
  (or equivalent hands-on experience with formal technical training)
• Experience with FAI, PPAP, and SPC methodologies
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and/or IATF 16949 standards
• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, etc.) is a plus, but not required
• Zeiss Calypso certification or formal training

Technical Skills

• CMM Platforms: Zeiss
• Software: Calypso, Calypso Planner, Gear pro, PiWeb (preferred)
• Inspection Tools: Calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, optical comparators, and other precision gauges
• Methods: GD&T, SPC, dimensional analysis

What Success Looks Like

• Accurate and repeatable measurements supported by proper fixture design and setup
• High confidence in both CMM and manual inspection results
• Reduced inspection variability and improved measurement consistency
• Strong collaboration with machining and engineering teams
• Consistent delivery of parts meeting tight-tolerance requirements