Division NC Programmer

Position: Division NC Programmer

Job Description

The 5-Axis Milling NC Programmer works closely with the Division leaders of NC Programming and NC Team Leads to develop high-quality CNC programs for complex milled components produced on 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centers. The role includes execution of advanced machining strategies, designing tooling and workholding solutions, optimizing manufacturing processes, and supporting shop-floor prove-outs. The programmer ensures all CNC programs meet manufacturing, quality, safety, and delivery requirements while aligning with company standards and production objectives.

Key duties

• Develop CNC programs for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centers using appropriate CAM software and based on engineering drawings, 3D models, and technical specifications.
• Create and modify 3D solid models from 2D drawings, PDFs, customer-supplied geometry, and scan data when required.
• Develop advanced toolpaths for roughing, semi-finishing, finishing, high-speed machining, and multi-axis contouring operations.
• Design tooling, fixtures, workholding, and part retention concepts to support complex machining requirements and maximize process stability.
• Optimize machining processes for cycle time, tool life, machine utilization, and manufacturability while maintaining quality requirements.
• Apply advanced machining strategies including tool center point control (TCPC), dynamic milling, adaptive roughing, and simultaneous 5-axis machining.
• Ensure CNC programs meet internal programming standards, machining best practices, and production requirements.
• Interpret and apply GD&T, model-based definition (MBD), and tolerance schemes to ensure dimensional compliance.
• Support program prove-outs on the shop floor, collaborating with machinists, manufacturing engineers, and quality personnel to resolve technical issues.
• Analyze and resolve programming, tooling, fixture, and machine-related challenges during development and production.
• Understand and apply FAI requirements, inspection methods, and aerospace documentation standards (if applicable).
• Work cross-functionally to support new product introduction, continuous improvement initiatives, cost reduction efforts, and special projects.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support production and engineering objectives.

Requirements

• 7–10+ years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing environment, with significant experience programming 5-axis machining centers.
• Strong knowledge of CAM software (CATIA, NX, Mastercam, HyperMill, PowerMill, or equivalent) and post-processing workflows.
• Extensive experience programming simultaneous 5-axis and indexed multi-axis machining operations.
• Strong understanding of machine kinematics, rotary axis configurations, tool center point control (TCPC), and collision avoidance techniques.
• Proficient understanding of G-Code and M-Code programming principles.
• Experience with tooling selection, cutter geometry, feeds and speeds optimization, high-performance machining, and difficult-to-machine materials.
• Ability to design and document fixtures, tombstones, pallets, and workholding solutions for complex components.
• Familiarity with Vericut or equivalent simulation software for toolpath verification, collision detection, and process validation.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, model-based definition (MBD), and metrology techniques.
• Experience machining aerospace, medical, energy, or other high-precision components preferred.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office tools and capable of producing clear technical documentation.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with machinists, quality engineers, manufacturing engineers, and production teams.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Formal training in relevant CAD/CAM software and advanced machining technologies preferred.

With more than 120 operations and approximately 20,000 employees worldwide, Precision Castparts Corp. is the market leader in manufacturing large, complex structural investment castings, airfoil castings, forged components, aerostructures and highly engineered, critical fasteners for aerospace applications. In addition, we are the leading producer of airfoil castings for the industrial gas turbine market. We also manufacture extruded seamless pipe, fittings, and forgings for power generation and oil & gas applications; commercial and military airframe aerostructures; and metal alloys and other materials for the casting and forging industries. With such critical applications, we insist on quality and dependability – not just in the materials and products we make, but in the people we recruit.

PCC is relentless in its dedication to being a high-quality, low-cost and on-time producer; delivering the highest value to its customers while continually pursuing strategic, profitable growth.

In 2016, Berkshire Hathaway, led by Chairman and CEO Warren E. Buffett, acquired Precision Castparts Corp.