Assistant Computer Programmer Jobs in Itasca, IL

Job Title: CNC Programmer

Job Description

This role offers an opportunity for an experienced CNC Programmer to take full ownership of complex machining projects, from concept through production readiness. You will program and optimize 3–5 axis Vertical and Horizontal Machining Centers using Mastercam, while working closely with engineering, production, and quality teams. The ideal candidate brings strong CAD/CAM proficiency, hands-on machining experience, and a deep understanding of machining processes, cutting tools, and fixturing strategies, and is comfortable spending part of the day on the manufacturing floor.

Responsibilities

• Create, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3–5 axis Vertical Machining Centers and Horizontal Machining Centers using Mastercam software.
• Interpret engineering drawings and 3D models to develop efficient and robust machining strategies.
• Design and document work holding and fixturing solutions to support repeatable and accurate machining processes.
• Select appropriate cutters, tooling, and machining parameters based on material, tolerance requirements, and machine capabilities.
• Perform machine setup and prove-out on the shop floor, adjusting toolpaths, feeds, and speeds as needed to achieve quality and productivity targets.
• Utilize probing cycles and Macro B programming to automate setup, verification, and in-process checks.
• Troubleshoot machining challenges, including chatter, dimensional variation, work holding issues, and tool performance problems.
• Create and maintain setup sheets, tool lists, and detailed process documentation to support consistent production.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure manufacturability, repeatability, and adherence to specifications.
• Drive continuous process improvements related to cycle time reduction, tool life optimization, quality enhancement, and workflow efficiency.
• Assist the quoting team by providing accurate cycle time estimates and fixture cost estimates.
• Create detailed setup layouts in SolidWorks, including work holding, datums, tooling clearance, and machine orientation, to support accurate and repeatable setups.
• Spend required periods on the manufacturing floor to support setups, prove-outs, troubleshooting, and operator training.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency with Mastercam, including recent versions such as Mastercam 2026.
• Strong knowledge of material machinability, cutting tools, and machining parameters for a variety of materials.
• Hands-on experience programming and supporting Vertical Machining Centers (3–5 axis) and Horizontal Machining Centers.
• Ability to create fixtures, work holding concepts, and tooling solutions for complex parts.
• Strong understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, and dimensional tolerancing.
• Experience using probing cycles and Macro B programming for automated setups and in-process verification.
• Ability to independently manage projects from initial concept through production readiness.
• Ability to work closely with and train Process Engineers and machine operators on programs, setups, and best practices.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills applied to machining and process challenges.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and apply GD&T principles in a production environment.
• Proficiency in machining practices and hands-on machining support on the shop floor.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Mastercam 2026 or later versions.
• Experience creating detailed setup layouts in SolidWorks, including work holding, datums, and tooling clearances.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM workflows supporting multi-axis machining.
• Comfort working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment with engineering, production, and quality teams.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily in a manufacturing environment supporting CNC machining operations. The role requires being on the manufacturing floor for portions of the day to support setups, prove-outs, and troubleshooting. You will work with modern Vertical and Horizontal Machining Centers, Mastercam for programming, and SolidWorks for setup layouts, while collaborating closely with engineering, production, and quality teams in a hands-on, safety-focused setting. Personal protective equipment is supported through reimbursement, and uniform rental service is provided to maintain a professional and safe work environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Carol Stream, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

• Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical insurance (PPO and HDHP with HSA) w/ Prescription Coverage • Dental PPO Insurance • Vision PPO Insurance • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance • Company Paid Life Insurance and AD & D – Including options to add on additional life insurance for yourself, spouse & children. • Critical Illness Insurance • Accident Insurance • 401(k) Fidelity Plan with strong employer match • Personal Retirement Advisor • Generous PTO Policy and 9 Paid Holidays per year • 100% Tuition Reimbursement for Job-Related Classes • Personal Protective Equipment reimbursement (safety glasses, shoes, etc.) • Uniform Rental Service • Employee Events

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Carol Stream,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 31, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

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

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.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.