CNC Programmer - Mastercam Programming$35 - $45hr Depending On Experience Job Description
An established precision manufacturing organization serving Aerospace & Defense customers is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Estimator to support complex machining operations. This role combines advanced Mastercam programming for multi-axis CNC milling centers with detailed estimating and quoting responsibilities for precision-machined components. You will develop machining strategies, create production-ready programs and documentation, and accurately evaluate manufacturing costs while ensuring quality, efficiency, and profitability.
Responsibilities
- Program complex precision CNC machined components using Mastercam for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centers.
- Develop and validate efficient machining strategies and toolpaths for multi-axis applications, optimizing cycle time, quality, and tool life.
- Select appropriate tooling, workholding, fixturing, and machining methods to maximize productivity and maintain tight tolerances (±0.0005" and tighter).
- Create complete setup sheets, tool lists, and manufacturing documentation to support consistent and repeatable production.
- Generate detailed and accurate estimates for labor, materials, tooling, and outside processing for new and existing parts.
- Review engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T requirements, and customer specifications to determine manufacturing approach and costs.
- Improve and optimize existing CNC programs and machining processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput.
- Collaborate closely with engineering, quality, production, and customers to conduct manufacturability reviews and refine process strategies.
- Support prototype, development, and production manufacturing efforts across a range of aerospace and defense components.
- Ensure compliance with aerospace manufacturing standards, AS9100 quality systems, FAI requirements, and documentation practices.
- Apply advanced machining knowledge to challenging materials, including titanium and Inconel, selecting appropriate tools and cutting parameters.
- Support quoting efforts for aerospace, defense, and other high-precision manufacturing opportunities by analyzing customer drawings and specifications.
- Maintain strong focus on accuracy, process optimization, and continuous improvement in all programming and estimating activities.
Essential Skills
- Minimum 5 years of Mastercam programming experience for complex, multi-axis CNC milling applications.
- Strong understanding of precision CNC milling processes and machining best practices.
- Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills for complex aerospace and defense components.
- Proven ability to program tight-tolerance parts (±0.0005" and tighter) and maintain dimensional accuracy.
- Knowledge of aerospace metals and difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium and Inconel.
- Experience working within AS9100 quality systems, including FAI requirements and aerospace documentation.
- Understanding of material traceability and customer compliance requirements in aerospace manufacturing.
- Strong mathematical and analytical skills to support accurate estimating and process optimization.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, quality, production, and customers.
- Demonstrated project management abilities and capability to handle multiple projects and quotations simultaneously.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
- Aerospace and defense manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with Mastercam programming for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling centers.
- Background in CMM programming and use of inspection tools in a precision machining environment.
- Familiarity with SolidWorks or similar CAD software for reviewing models and drawings.
- Hands-on machining experience and understanding of shop-floor practices and workflows.
- Experience supporting both prototype and production manufacturing environments.
- Ability to perform accurate quoting and cost analysis for high-precision machining projects.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documentation and estimating.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with multiple concurrent projects and deadlines.
Why Work Here?
You will work on highly complex Aerospace & Defense components that challenge your technical skills and keep your work engaging. The role offers a unique blend of programming and estimating responsibilities, giving you broad impact on both manufacturing efficiency and business growth. You will have access to advanced CNC machining technologies and multi-axis equipment, along with exposure to cutting-edge materials and machining strategies. The environment encourages collaboration with engineering, production, and customers, providing opportunities to influence process improvements and operational excellence. This precision manufacturing organization supports career growth and development, offering a path to expand your expertise and take on increasing responsibility over time.
Work Environment
You will work in a precision machining and manufacturing environment that combines office-based programming and estimating activities with regular collaboration on the shop floor. The facility is climate controlled and supports advanced CNC machining technologies and multi-axis equipment. You will interact frequently with engineering, quality, production, and customers in a fast-paced setting that manages multiple projects and quotations simultaneously. The organization operates under Aerospace & Defense manufacturing standards, including AS9100 quality requirements, material traceability, and rigorous documentation practices. The work focuses on accuracy, process optimization, and continuous improvement, with a mix of programming, estimating, and technical manufacturing support activities.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Wylie, TX.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $72800.00 - $93600.00/yr.
Time off benefits 401k medical, dental, vision short term disability company paid life insurance
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Wylie,TX.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Aug 13, 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.