Sr. CMM Programmer

J G Kern Enterprises, Inc

$75K — $95K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in CMM programming and metrology
  • Strong experience with Zeiss CMM systems and Calypso software
  • Proven ability to program CMMs per customer print specifications
  • Expert-level understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5)
  • Demonstrated expertise in interpreting and validating CMM results
  • Experience with tight tolerances (±.0004" or better)
  • Hands-on experience with CMM fixturing and manual inspection tools

Responsibilities

  • Program and operate Zeiss CMM equipment (Calypso) according to customer specifications
  • Develop inspection programs for complex CNC machined components
  • Serve as a subject matter expert in evaluating CMM accuracy and repeatability
  • Design and utilize CMM fixtures to ensure measurement stability
  • Perform manual inspections using precision gauges
  • Analyze dimensional data to identify trends and non-conformance issues
  • Collaborate with engineering and CNC teams to resolve quality issues
  • Lead First Article Inspections (FAI) and PPAP submissions
  • Enhance inspection efficiency through program optimization
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives in metrology

Benefits

  • Collaborative work environment promoting innovation and quality
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development
  • Engagement in continuous improvement initiatives
  • Hands-on approach with advanced metrology equipment
  • Potential for influence in quality assurance processes
Full Job Description
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 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, 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

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