CNC Programmer Tooling Engineer

Job Title: CNC Programmer / Tooling Engineer

Job Description

This role combines advanced CNC programming with tooling and fixture design to support complex machining operations, primarily in an aerospace manufacturing environment. You will interpret engineering drawings, develop and optimize CNC programs, design and validate tooling and fixtures, and work closely with both engineering and shop-floor teams to ensure high-quality, efficient production. The position offers long-term stability, full benefits, and strong opportunities for growth within a tight-knit, collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Analyze drawings, sketches, and design data to determine part dimensions, configurations of cuts, selection of cutting tools, and appropriate machine speeds and feed rates.
• Create, evaluate, and refine tool designs, coordinating with engineering to implement necessary design changes.
• Analyze, design, and support the manufacture of machine holding fixtures for a variety of parts.
• Compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures, and define the sequence of operations required to machine each part.
• Prepare detailed geometric layouts using Mastercam software, clearly showing reference points and the direction of cutting paths.
• Write clear instruction sheets, check sheets, and cutter lists to guide machine setup and operation.
• Develop, test, and maintain programs for multi-axis CNC milling and lathe machines.
• Compare computer printouts with original program sheets to verify the accuracy of machine instructions and ensure conformance to specifications.
• Revise CNC programs to eliminate errors or omissions and improve reliability and efficiency.
• Observe and validate program operation using NC plot software to prove out tool paths and confirm safe, accurate machining.
• Set up and operate all CNC machines in the facility as needed to validate programs, tooling, and processes.
• Train and mentor operators, providing guidance on CNC programs, tooling, and process troubleshooting.
• Evaluate and resolve CNC program and associated manufacturing issues in collaboration with all relevant departments.
• Initiate and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including set-up time reduction, cycle-time improvements, and process standardization.
• Write clear, effective standard operating instructions to support consistent manufacturing practices.
• Ensure proper handling and management of hazardous waste generated in the work area in accordance with internal procedures.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet required deadlines.
• Communicate effectively with engineering, production, and other internal teams to support smooth manufacturing operations.
• Support overtime and weekend work when needed to meet production demands.

Essential Skills

• Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 5-7 years of related experience in CNC programming, tooling engineering, or a closely related job function.
• At least 3 years of machining background, with hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient knowledge of Mastercam for programming and geometric layout creation.
• Proficient knowledge of SolidWorks for tooling and fixture design.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings accurately.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and aerospace components, including GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing).
• Demonstrated ability to manage numerous projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and maintain a strong memory for detail.
• Strong analytical skills and meticulous work habits, with a focus on accuracy and quality.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with personnel at all levels.
• Team-oriented mindset with a continuous improvement outlook.
• Expert-level capability to work independently without supervision.
• Proficient computer skills, including use of new screens, reports, functions, and simple software programs with assistance as needed.
• Proficient use of shop math, including addition and subtraction of whole numbers and time intervals, as well as trigonometry.
• Ability to support overtime and weekend work when required to support manufacturing.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with tooling design, including cutting tools and workholding solutions.
• Experience with fixture design for complex machined parts.
• background in CAD applications beyond Mastercam and SolidWorks is beneficial.
• Experience in aerospace manufacturing environments is highly advantageous.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of CNC machining processes.
• Comfort working with NC plot software or similar tools to validate tool paths.
• Demonstrated ability to write clear, concise standard operating instructions.
• Pleasant, collaborative demeanor with the ability to work effectively within a tight-knit team.
• Ability to read and understand internal procedures and policies and apply them consistently.
• Comfort mentoring and training operators on CNC programs, tooling, and process best practices.

Work Environment

This role operates in a mixed office and manufacturing setting, with regular movement between the engineering office and the shop floor. You will spend time in the office performing design work in Mastercam and SolidWorks, and then transition to the manufacturing floor to validate tooling, fixtures, and CNC programs directly on the machines. The team in the office is small and closely collaborative, while the manufacturing floor hosts a larger group of operators and technicians. The culture is tight knit and supportive, with colleagues who work together like a family and share a strong focus on quality and continuous improvement. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility when absolutely necessary and the expectation of occasional overtime or weekend work to support production demands. The environment includes typical manufacturing-floor conditions, such as active machinery and production activity, and appropriate shop-floor attire and safety practices are required.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Santa Clarita, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $72800.00 - $87000.00/yr.

Health, dental, vision, 401K

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Santa Clarita,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 29, 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.