Job Type

Full-time

Description

Position Summary:

The Wire EDM Programmer/Technician is proficient in programming, setting up, and operating Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) equipment to produce precision-machined components to customer print specifications. This individual reads and interprets engineering drawings, programs parts using CAM software, and debugs/troubleshoots cuts at the machine, submitting First Article piece samples to Quality for approval. The Wire EDM Programmer/Technician takes directions from the Manufacturing Supervisor and works in close partnership with Tool Room, Engineering, and Quality personnel.

Essential Functions:

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each stated essential function, with or without reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to help qualified individuals with disabilities perform the essential functions.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

Programming & Setup:

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T specifications to determine machining requirements.
• Program Wire EDM parts using CAM software (ESPRIT preferred) and post-process for machine controls (Agie Charmilles preferred).
• Select appropriate wire type, tension, and machine parameters based on material and tolerance requirements.

Machine Operation & Troubleshooting:

• Set up and operate Wire EDM machines to cut precision parts from various materials (steel, carbide, exotic alloys, etc.).
• Troubleshoot and resolve programming, machine, or process-related issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Optimize cut paths and parameters to improve cycle time, surface finish, and part accuracy.

Quality & Documentation:

• Perform first-article inspections and in-process quality checks using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM, etc.).
• Maintain accurate documentation of programs, setups, and inspection results per quality system requirements.

Maintenance:

• Perform routine machine maintenance and coordinate with maintenance staff on repairs.

Non-essential Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as directed.
• Provides backup and support to other tool room and engineering functions as needed.
• Cross trains on additional CAM software or machine controls as needed

Position Qualifications and Competency Statements:
• Regard for safety - Ability to follow safety rules and processes and keeps own safety and the safety of others in the forefront of every action.
• Integrity - Ability to demonstrate consistency between words and actions. Follows through on commitments.
• Attitude - Ability to maintain a positive mindset towards achieving success and eagerness and willingness to accept and meet challenges.
• Work Ethic - Ability to make decisions based upon ethical principles, considering how the choice will affect others.

Skills and Abilities:
• Minimum 2+ years of experience programming and operating Wire EDM machines on any make/model (Sodick, Mitsubishi, Fanuc, AgieCharmilles, etc.); experience on AgieCharmilles equipment preferred.
• Experience with CAM programming software for Wire EDM (Mastercam, GibbsCAM, ESPRIT, or similar); proficiency with ESPRIT preferred.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and GD&T; working knowledge of tolerances, surface finish requirements, and material properties.
• Ability to use precision measurement tools and basic quality inspection techniques; familiarity with relevant quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100).
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical degree or certificate in machining/manufacturing preferred.
• Experience in an ITAR-regulated or aerospace/defense manufacturing environment a plus.

Work Environment:

This position involves working in a manufacturing environment that is adjacent to the shop work environment. The employee must be aware of potential hazards, including, but not limited to, working in close proximity to moving mechanical parts, operating vehicles, exposure to electrical current, high temperatures, and chemicals. It's important to maintain a high level of alertness and caution while performing tasks in this work environment.

Salary Description

$40.00 to $50.00 per hour (pending experience)