NC Programmer - Mastercam
Align Precision · Garden Grove, California, United States ·
- Employment
- Contract
- Experience
- 5+ years
Develops and optimizes 3- to 5-axis CNC programs in Mastercam to machine large aerospace components like wing skins and spars, ensuring tight tolerances and GD&T compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, test, and optimize 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC programs in Mastercam for large gantry-style machining centers.
- Program complex aerostructure components including monolithic wing skins, spars, ribs, and large sheet metal detail parts from 3D models and engineering drawings
- Optimize toolpaths for material removal rates, cycle time, tool life, and surface finish while managing part deflection and thin-wall stability
- Select appropriate cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and work-holding strategies for aluminum, titanium, and composite materials
- Collaborate with manufacturing engineering, tooling, and quality teams to ensure programs meet GD&T requirements and first-article inspection standards
- Perform program verification and simulation (e.g., Vericut) to eliminate collisions, gouges, and fixture interference prior to machine floor deployment
- Support first-article setup and provide on-machine troubleshooting, including program edits and offset adjustments
- Interpret and program from engineering models (CATIA, NX, or similar) and native/neutral CAD file formats
- Maintain and update program documentation, setup sheets, and tool lists in accordance with AS9100 and customer quality requirements
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times and improve process capability on large-format work
- Participate in DFM (Design for Manufacturability) reviews for new aerostructure programs
- Regular, reliable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of the role.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of CNC programming experience using Mastercam, with a focus on large-part or aerostructure machining
- Demonstrated experience programming multi-axis gantry or large-envelope machining centers
- Strong understanding of aerospace materials (aluminum alloys, titanium) and their machining characteristics
- Proficiency reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D models
- Experience with toolpath simulation/verification software (Vericut or equivalent)
- Working knowledge of work-holding and fixturing strategies for large, flexible parts
- Familiarity with post-processor logic and the ability to troubleshoot post output
- Strong understanding of AS9100 and aerospace quality documentation requirements
- Must be able to obtain and maintain any required government clearances/authorizations (ITAR compliance)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience programming 5-axis simultaneous machining on large gantry platforms
- Familiarity with CATIA V5 or Siemens NX for model preparation and surfacing
- Experience with composite trimming/drilling programs in addition to metallic structures
- Prior experience in a defense or commercial aerospace structures manufacturing environment
- Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma exposure
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
Physical & Work Environment
- Ability to work on a manufacturing floor with exposure to large-scale CNC equipment
- Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs) and standing/walking for extended periods
- May require flexibility to support multiple shifts or production schedules
Note: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) of this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the employee(s) will possess the skills, aptitude, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety to themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an at will relationship.
Affirmative Action/Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: ALIGN PRECISION is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at our company. We are committed to creating a workplace where all qualified individuals are welcome and can thrive, regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristics protected by law.