Cnc Programmer And Operator

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer - Advanced CNC Programmer

Job Description

This position focuses on advanced CNC programming in a high‑mix prototype and production environment. The mechanical engineer will create complete manufacturing packages-including NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files-for 3‑axis, 5‑axis, and mill‑turn machines. The role combines expert‑level workholding and fixture design, deep knowledge of machining processes, and strong collaboration with manufacturing engineers and machinists to support both prototype and production work.

Responsibilities

• Develop optimized NC programs for 3‑axis, 5‑axis, and mill‑turn CNC machines to support high‑mix prototype and production work.
• Create detailed setup sheets that clearly define tooling, fixturing, work offsets, and other critical setup information for shop floor execution.
• Generate and review simulation files to verify CNC programs prior to release, ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate machining operations.
• Deliver complete, ready‑to‑run manufacturing packages that include NC code, setup documentation, and simulation data for production teams.
• Design custom fixtures and workholding solutions for complex and high‑precision parts, ensuring stability, repeatability, and ease of use.
• Optimize workholding strategies to improve efficiency, reduce setup time, and enhance part quality and consistency.
• Collaborate closely with machinists on fixture implementation, adjustment, and refinement based on real‑world performance and feedback.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, and feeds to achieve optimal performance, balancing cycle time, tool life, and part quality.
• Apply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles by reviewing part designs and recommending modifications to reduce cost and improve manufacturability.
• Support transitions from prototype to production by developing scalable programming solutions and standardized processes.
• Troubleshoot CNC programming and machining issues on the floor, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective actions.
• Provide technical guidance on machining capabilities, limitations, tooling options, and process improvements to engineering and production teams.
• Set up and run CNC machines as needed to validate programs, prove out new processes, and confirm fixture and workholding performance.
• Use 3D design tools to support fixture design, workholding concepts, and DFM recommendations for complex geometries.

Essential Skills

• At least 8 years of advanced CNC programming experience in a production or high‑mix environment.
• Expert‑level workholding and fixture design capabilities for complex and precision parts.
• Proficiency programming 3‑axis, 5‑axis, and mill‑turn CNC machines.
• Ability to deliver complete manufacturing packages, including NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files, ready for shop floor use.
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling selection, cutting strategies, and process optimization.
• Hands‑on experience setting up and running CNC machines to validate programs and processes.
• Experience applying Design for Manufacturability (DFM), including the ability to review part designs and recommend cost‑ and process‑improving changes.
• Proficiency in 3D design for fixture and workholding development and for evaluating part manufacturability.
• Background as a CNC programmer with a focus on workholding design and practical shop‑floor support.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in ISO 9001 certified manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency with Mastercam programming software.
• Experience using ESPRIT programming software.
• Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work closely with manufacturing engineers and machinists.
• Ability to troubleshoot programming and machining issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Comfort providing technical guidance on machining capabilities, limitations, and best practices.

Work Environment

The role is based in a high‑mix prototype and production machining environment that uses 3‑axis, 5‑axis, and mill‑turn CNC equipment. You will work closely with manufacturing engineers and machinists on the shop floor, supporting real‑time problem solving and continuous improvement. The environment emphasizes quality, efficiency, and adherence to documented processes, with exposure to ISO 9001 practices and modern CNC programming tools such as Mastercam and ESPRIT. Work involves both office‑based programming and documentation tasks as well as time in the machining area for setups, program prove‑outs, and fixture validation, requiring appropriate industrial attire suitable for a CNC shop setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $55.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Seattle,WA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.