DescriptionThe Programming Manager leads the Programming Department and is accountable for the full lifecycle of CNC-derived outputs - NC programs, Mylars, e-drawings, flat patterns, and derived data supporting both detail fabrication and assembly operations. This is a floor-facing leadership role. The Programming Manager is the primary technical resource for machine operators across manufacturing and assembly, owns programming readiness before every FAI event, and leads a team of CNC programmers.
Principal Responsibilities and Accountabilities:NC Programming & Derived Data- Develop and maintain CNC programs for 3, 4, and 5-axis operations using Mastercam (X9-current); platforms include DMG 105 Monoblock, Haas VF2-VF11, Mazak, Fadal, and Fanuc
- Produce Mylars, e-drawings, flat patterns, and toolpath documentation supporting manufacturing and assembly operations
- Manage Renishaw on-machine probing; maintain version control and controlled release of all programs and derived outputs
Operator Interface & Programming Quality- Primary floor technical resource for NC program issues, setup discrepancies, and machining anomalies across manufacturing and assembly
- Enforce internal review gate - no program or derived output reaches the floor without lead sign-off
- Own the production request resolution loop daily; develop setup sheets and work instructions enabling operator-led first articles
FAI Programming Readiness- Ensure all NC programs and derived documentation are current and released before FAI is scheduled - programming is never the cause of delay
- Lead prove-out for new part introductions; maintain part-level programming history for repeat-order setup reduction
LEU Surface-to-Air Missile Launcher & Weld Operations- Own all NC programming for LEU launcher components from NPI through sustained production; participate in LEU program reviews
- Develop CNC fixture programs for weld assembly setups; support post-weld machining operations requiring dimensional correction toolpaths
Team Leadership- Lead CNC programmers - priorities, workload, performance, and development; build programmer certification matrix eliminating single points of failure
- Sustain daily standup and visual management cadence; report monthly RTOR closure rate, NC ticket trend, and Stopped ticket age to Senior Manager
Professional Requirements, Qualifications & Desired Competencies:- 15+ years progressive CNC machining and programming experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing
- 5+ years supervisory or lead role with direct responsibility for programming staff and machining operations
- Demonstrated 5-axis CNC programming through first article and production - DMG Monoblock, Haas, Mazak, or equivalent
- Experience producing derived data outputs (Mylars, e-drawings, flat patterns) in support of manufacturing and assembly
- Mastercam proficiency required (X9-current); 3/4/5-axis modeling, toolpath development, post-processor management
- Machine control proficiency: Haas, DMG MORI, Mazak, Fanuc, Fadal; Renishaw on-machine probing
- GD&T; aluminum alloys, stainless, titanium, Inconel, and composite/plastic material experience
- Configuration control discipline in a build-to-print environment; structured root cause problem-solving
- Must be able to work any shift, overtime, and flexible hours; adhere to Company policies and maintain confidentiality
Preferred:
- LEU, Surface-to-Air Missile Launcher, or similar precision defense hardware experience
- Weld fixture programming and post-weld machining; DMS 5-axis router and Flow Waterjet programming
- Lights-out machining setup; third-party programming vendor coordination; AS9100 familiarity
Work Environment:- Primarily works in a manufacturing setting with exposure to machinery and production equipment.
- Requires standing for extended periods and occasional lifting of materials.
- May involve occasional travel to suppliers or other company locations.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. The employee may be required to follow other instructions and to perform other duties requested by their supervisor.
Physical Requirements:Primarily manufacturing/assembly environment. Must be able to work in the following environmental conditions: noise, vibration, proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current. Must be able to bend and reach. Must have close visual acuity such as viewing a computer terminal, extensive reading, visual inspection involving small defects, small parts, and/or operation of machines, and/or assembly or fabrication parts at close distance to the eyes. Must be able to communicate effectively. Must be able to maneuver up to 20 pounds. Will be performing substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
