Leidos Defense Manufacturing is seeking seeking a seasoned
5-axis CNC Programmer with expertise in CNC machining of components. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of advanced manufacturing principles, particularly in 3-axis and 5-axis machining, lathe, mill-turn operations, and wire EDM. The role involves creating, maintaining and the continuous improvement of multi-axis CNC programs and associated documentation related to 3 & 5-Axis machining for complex aerospace and defense hardware. The candidate will utilize their technical expertise to work within the team to develop and implement those processes to meet engineering requirements. The successful candidate will solve complex technical issues, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and effectively communicate with internal teams, clients and external parties.
Primary Responsibilities- Develop 3 & 5-Axis CNC programs for machining complex aerospace and defense hardware in a variety of materials including, but not limited to, inconel, titanium, alloy steels, stainless steels, aluminums, and composites.
- Create complete work package consisting of CNC program, machining operation setup sheets, tool lists and other related documentation for use by a machinist.
- Provide shop floor support to resolve technical and manufacturing issues.
- Develop and manage manufacturing processes for CNC machined components, including 3-axis, 5-axis, lathe, mill-turn operations, and wire EDM. Ensuring we are using best practice toolpath strategies and cutting tools for the goal of efficiency and predictable machining outcome.
- Support quality and manufacturing engineering groups to perform root cause analysis and develop corrective action plans to reduce/eliminate non-conformances.
- Design and develop tooling and fixtures for manufacturing.
- Solve complex technical issues and provide innovative solutions.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focusing on safety, quality, cost, and delivery.
- Communicate effectively with internal teams, clients, and external parties.
- Implement lean manufacturing principles and practices, assisting in creation of SOPs.
- Collaborate with project and team leaders to influence solution design and process approaches.
- Sharing your knowledge by mentoring those on the TEAM, who are up and coming rock stars.
Basic Qualifications- BS degree with 12+ years of relevant experience in a CNC machining environment or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience in offline CNC programming a plus.
- Experience with CNC programming in Siemens NX a plus.
- Proficient in working with a variety of materials, including plastics, aluminum, steels, stainless steels, and nickel alloys.
- Deep understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
- Proven track record of solving complex technical issues and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and practices.
- Must be a US Citizen and possess or meet the eligibility to obtain (and be able to maintain) a Secret Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with Surfcam, Solidworks, Renishaw probing and CNC Macro Programming.
- Experience with ERP and MES systems (e.g., Costpoint, Solumina).
- Experience with large gantry and bridge mills, VTLs and large lathes.
HuntsvilleManufacturing
Original Posting:July 20, 2026
Pay Range:Pay Range $116,350.00 - $210,325.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
