Step into a Day-in-the-Life: CNC Manufacturing Programmer

When you walk into our Sterling, VA facility, you’ll join a tight-knit, third‑generation team that has been perfecting precision work since 1969. As a CNC Manufacturing Programmer at Pro-Type Industries, you’ll translate complex drawings and 3D models into efficient, accurate CNC toolpaths—powering components for aerospace, defense, electronics, marine, and high-tech customers. Under forward‑thinking ownership, we’re scaling our legacy with a people-first approach and continuous learning culture.

What Your Day Looks Like

• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, models, specifications, and customer requirements to create robust CAM programs for CNC mills (3-, 4-, and 5-axis) and, as needed, CNC lathes.
• Build, edit, and refine Mastercam programs that deliver precision and repeatability while minimizing cycle time.
• Develop machining strategies: choose tooling, define speeds/feeds, determine workholding, and sequence operations for quality and throughput.
• Author clear setup sheets, tooling lists, and operator instructions for seamless handoffs to machinists and CNC operators.
• Support setups and first-article prove-outs; validate and adjust programs on the floor to hit spec the first time.
• Troubleshoot issues tied to code, tooling, fixtures, dimensions, finishes, or machine behavior—and close the loop quickly.
• Continuously improve by reprogramming or optimizing strategies to extend tool life, enhance finish, reduce time, and elevate yield.
• Leverage SolidWorks and 3D data to verify toolpaths and manufacturability before chips fly.
• Measure finished components with micrometers, calipers, indicators, and gauges to confirm conformance.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Production, and Shop teams to solve problems and improve flow.
• Maintain controlled files for programs, revisions, and setup documentation aligned with current engineering requirements.
• Follow AS9100 procedures and customer mandates, keeping your work area clean, organized, and safe.
• Manage programming priorities to support the machine shop schedule; pitch in with broader Pro‑Type activities as needed.

Who Thrives Here

• Craft-driven pros who set a high bar for quality and personal performance.
• Detail-obsessed programmers who like independent, heads-down work and own tasks end to end.
• People who enjoy combining hands-on machining sense with strong CAM skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training in machining, CNC programming, manufacturing technology, or related field preferred.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Proven experience programming CNC equipment in a precision metal manufacturing environment.
• Mastercam expertise (or similar CAM) with 3-, 4-, and/or 5-axis milling; turning/lathe programming experience preferred.
• Practical knowledge of CNC mill and lathe setup and operation; hands-on machining background to connect code with cut.
• Deep familiarity with cutting tools, tool selection, speeds/feeds, workholding, fixtures, and process sequencing.
• Manual machining experience preferred.
• Strong blueprint reading, interpretation of specifications, and 3D model comprehension.
• Applied GD&T knowledge.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or other 3D CAD platforms.
• Comfort with precision metrology: micrometers, calipers, gauges, indicators, and related tools.
• Able to diagnose machining problems tied to programs, tooling, fixtures, tolerances, finish, or machine performance.
• Clear communicator who can produce concise setup instructions and coach operators.
• Strong math, analysis, and critical thinking; meticulous attention to detail.
• Capable of juggling multiple priorities in a deadline-driven shop.
• Independent worker who collaborates smoothly with Shop, Engineering, Quality, and Production.
• Background in aerospace, defense, or AS9100-certified manufacturing preferred.
• Reliable attendance; ability to work assigned schedules and overtime when required.
• Physical: stand for extended periods (full shift) and safely lift/move up to 75 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Tools & Domains

• Proficiency areas: CNC Programming; Aerospace Manufacturing
• Key equipment: CNC Mill (3–4 axis VMC)

What You’ll Receive

• Competitive pay package.
• Annual, fully paid continuing-education training.
• Career growth with a structured professional development plan.
• Employee recognition programs.
• Health, dental, vision, sick and vacation leave, on‑site gym, and more.
• 401(k) with a generous employer match.
• Collaborative, entrepreneurial team environment.

About Pro‑Type Industries

From Sterling, VA, we deliver precision CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and finishing to customers in aerospace, military, manufacturing, electronics, technology, and marine sectors. Our average team tenure is 17 years—a testament to our investment in people and training. With new leadership, we’re building on more than 50 years of momentum—and we’re just getting started.