Apprentice Software Developer Jobs in Long Beach, CA

Summary

When you work at ALIGN PREISION you are joining a team that takes pride in delivering precision solutions for leading aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and high-tech industry OEMs. We are seeking an experienced CATIA Programmer to develop CNC programs for large-scale aerostructure components machined on multi-axis gantry mills. This role is responsible for translating CATIA V5 design models into machinable toolpaths for complex, close-tolerance structures used in aerospace and defense platforms. The ideal candidate has strong CATIA modeling/surfacing skills combined with hands-on programming experience on large-envelope gantry machines. If you are looking to join a Company whose employees thrive through continual learning and mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this position is for you!

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and optimize 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC programs using CATIA V5 (Prismatic/Surface Machining, Advanced Machining workbenches) for large gantry-style machining centers
• Program complex aerostructure components including monolithic wing skins, spars, ribs, and large sheet metal detail parts directly from CATIA design models and engineering drawings
• Build and maintain manufacturing models, stock definitions, fixture assemblies, and tooling libraries within CATIA
• Optimize toolpaths for material removal rates, cycle time, tool life, and surface finish while managing part deflection and thin-wall stability on large structures
• 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, CATIA NC simulation) 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
• Post-process CATIA toolpaths and troubleshoot post-processor output for specific gantry machine controllers
• 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, providing manufacturing input on CATIA design models
• Regular, reliable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of the role.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC programming experience using CATIA V5 (Manufacturing/Machining workbenches), with a focus on large-part or aerostructure machining
• Demonstrated experience programming multi-axis gantry or large-envelope machining centers
• Strong proficiency with CATIA V5 surfacing and part design modules in addition to manufacturing modules
• 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 PLM/PDM systems (ENOVIA, Windchill, or similar) for CATIA model management
• Experience with composite trimming/drilling programs in addition to metallic structures
• Prior experience in a defense or commercial aerospace structures manufacturing environment
• Cross-training or working knowledge of Mastercam or other CAM systems
• 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 and 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.