CNC Programmer

GENERAL SUMMARY

LAIKA is seeking a proficient and highly independent CNC Programmer to support CNC manufacturing for multiple studio departments. This role is responsible for programming, setting up, proving out, operating, and inspecting small-batch prototype precision parts.

JOB FUNCTIONS

• Review models, drawings, and part requirements to determine machining approach, tooling, workholding, setup sequence, and inspection strategy for machined parts used throughout the studio.
• Create CNC programs for 3-axis milling using ESPRIT EDGE to machine small-batch precision parts from materials including annealed tool steels, aluminum, bronze, and plastics.
• Set up, prove out, operate, and troubleshoot CNC programs on a Haas VF1 vertical mill, Makino U3 Wire EDM, and Babin-Hardinge CNC lathe.
• Transfer appropriate setup and operation work to a CNC Operator by providing clear setup direction, process notes, inspection expectations, and troubleshooting support.
• Use simulation, probing, inspection, and machining judgment to verify programs before and during prove-out.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, holders, fixtures, workholding methods, speeds, feeds, and machining strategies.
• Inspect parts using appropriate inspection tools including micrometers, calipers, pin gauges, height gauges, indicators, optical comparator, and microscope inspection methods.
• Read and interpret drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements, and read and edit G-code as needed including programs using macro variables.
• Use Renishaw probing or similar probing methods for setup, verification, and process support.
• Perform occasional CAD work in Autodesk Inventor to support fixture design and related machining needs.
• Troubleshoot machining, workholding, tooling, tolerance, finish, and repeatability issues, and perform occasional manual machining as needed.
• Contribute to an evolving system of process notes, setup practices, tooling standards, and CAM/machine workflows.
• Communicate clearly with mechanical fabrication leadership and internal customers regarding part requirements, technical concerns, schedule impacts, and process risks.
• Work effectively with artists, engineers, designers, and other studio staff in a nontraditional CNC manufacturing environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 3+ years of CNC programming experience.
• Experience programming, setting up, proving out, and operating 3-axis CNC mills.
• Ability to independently create a process plan, select tooling and workholding, program, simulate, set up, prove out, inspect, and troubleshoot from a model or drawing.
• Experience machining small or highly detailed parts including producing tight-tolerance precision components, commonly to ±.001 in.
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, toolholders, workholding, speeds, and feeds.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements.
• Hands-on inspection experience using precision inspection tools.
• Experience reading and editing G-code.
• Experience working with macro variables.
• Strong troubleshooting skills related to machining, setup, tooling, finish, tolerance, and repeatability.
• Ability to work independently with minimal direction after LAIKA-specific training.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to identify and resolve technical concerns early.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with ESPRIT, ESPRIT EDGE, or similar CAM software.
• Experience with Haas CNC controls or Haas vertical mills.
• Experience with Renishaw probing or similar CNC probing systems.
• Wire EDM experience.
• CNC lathe experience.
• CAD experience, especially Autodesk Inventor.
• Experience supporting low-volume production or prototype-to-small-batch manufacturing.
• Experience providing technical direction, setup guidance, and process support to CNC operators or junior machinists.

LOCATION

On-site in Hillsboro, OR

SALARY

Salary is commensurate with skills and experience.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made as required by applicable law.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to walk, stand, sit, use hands to operate mechanical equipment, reach with hands and arms, balance, stoop, talk, and hear both in person and by telephone. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee works under typical shop conditions around CNC equipment, cutting tools, inspection equipment, small parts, coolant, oil, and tumbling equipment, with variable indoor temperatures. The noise level is usually moderate.