Manufacturing Engineer – CNC Programming and Estimating

Job Overview

We are hiring a Manufacturing Engineer / Estimator to support the production of complex, high-precision aerospace components. This role combines CNC programming, process planning, estimating, and shop-floor support to ensure efficient manufacturing operations from quote through production release.

You will work closely with machinists, engineers, quality, and production teams to resolve machining issues, develop CNC processes, and support continuous improvement in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, write, simulate, and optimize CNC programs using CAD/CAM tools for aerospace components
• Validate CNC programs using Vericut and shop-floor prove-outs prior to production release
• Define machining setups, including fixturing, tooling selection, and machine configuration strategies
• Provide CNC programs, posted code, tooling lists, offsets, and setup documentation
• Support full-cycle manufacturing execution from planning through production readiness
• Lead or support shop-floor troubleshooting for machining, tooling, and process issues
• Collaborate with Design, Quality, and Production teams to resolve deviations and non-conformances
• Create and approve detailed work instructions for prototype and production parts
• Develop manufacturing estimates and support quoting for new aerospace hardware
• Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews
• Drive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to improve cost, quality, and delivery

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (or 10+ years equivalent experience)
• 3+ years of CNC machining/programming experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong hands-on experience with CNC mills, lathes, EDM, or grinding operations
• Ability to machine parts end-to-end using CNC and manual machining methods
• Strong understanding of tooling, speeds & feeds, and machining principles
• Experience working directly with shop-floor personnel to resolve production issues
• CAD/CAM experience required (NX, Mastercam, Esprit, Mazatrol)
• Experience with CNC simulation/verification tools (Vericut preferred)
• Ability to develop process plans, setups, and manufacturing documentation

Preferred Qualifications

• Aerospace manufacturing experience strongly preferred (Automotive or Hi-Tech acceptable)
• Experience with ITAR-regulated or tightly toleranced components
• Prior experience in estimating, quoting, and process planning
• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma or continuous improvement experience
• Experience leading shop-floor execution or cross-functional manufacturing teams

Candidate Requirements

• Must be a US Citizen or a Green Card holder
• Strong hands-on CNC machining and programming experience required
• Comfortable working in a regulated aerospace manufacturing environment
• Proven ability to support production from planning through execution