Precision Swiss Screw Machining Programmer — Prototype to Production
Do you love turning complex prints into flawless Swiss-turn parts? Arena Direct Hire is helping a confidential, precision healthcare manufacturer find a programmer who can bridge R&D concepts and production-ready processes on Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines.
Why this work matters
In healthcare manufacturing, every micron counts. Your programming choices influence quality, repeatability, and speed—ultimately impacting patients. If you’re energized by problem-solving at the machine, codifying best practices, and mentoring others, this is your platform.
Your mission
- Own CNC programming and tooling diagrams for prototypes and production parts, emphasizing cost-effective, robust methods.
- Co-develop prototypes with R&D and lead smooth transfer into scaled production.
- Validate programs and set-up parameters, ensuring they align tightly with engineering intent and GD&T.
- Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, sketches, models, and specifications.
- Choose machining strategies, tooling, machine requirements, and operation sequences.
- Drive continuous improvement: reduce variability and secondary ops; improve tool life, cycle time, and cost.
- Maintain and enhance current programs and processes.
- Install/change tooling, perform set-ups, and edit programs on Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines.
- Troubleshoot production issues on the floor and resolve problems with speed and rigor.
- Train machinists and set-up teams on new or optimized methods; audit processes to elevate control and quality.
- Leverage SolidWorks (or similar CAD) and apply GD&T in real production contexts.
- Support lean initiatives and uphold safety and 5S standards.
What you bring
- 3+ years in CNC machining with introductory CNC programming experience.
- Experience creating, editing, validating, or supporting CNC programs for prototypes or production.
- Comfort reading and working from engineering drawings, models, and specs.
- Working knowledge of G Code and M Code.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent CAD.
- Strong GD&T knowledge.
- Hands-on experience with tooling changes, part set-ups, and program edits.
- Direct experience on Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines.
- Demonstrated ability to stabilize and optimize machining processes.
- Excellent troubleshooting, organization, documentation, communication, and prioritization skills.
- Capable of working independently and with cross-functional teams.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Preferred profile
- Experience in cGMP and/or ISO regulated environments.
- Related college or certificate coursework.
- Training experience for machinists or set-up teams.
- Background in NPD, prototyping, and production transfer.
- Measurable wins in cycle time, tool life, process control, quality, or cost.
- Time in precision manufacturing, medical device, healthcare manufacturing, aerospace, or similar regulated industries.
Tools and platforms
- SolidWorks or similar CAD software
- CNC programming utilities
- G Code and M Code
- GD&T
- Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines
- Microsoft Office (helpful)
The environment you’ll join
- Well-established manufacturer in healthcare manufacturing.
- Precision-first culture with rigorous process control and documentation.
- Close collaboration with manufacturing leadership, machinists, set-up teams, R&D, and quality.
- Opportunities to prototype, validate, and scale new parts into production.
- Continuous improvement mindset focused on quality, consistency, and efficiency.
Schedule, reporting, and location
- Location: North County San Diego
- Work Arrangement: In Office
- Schedule: 6:00am to 2:30pm
- Reports to: Machine Shop Manager
Compensation and benefits
- Base compensation range: $100,000 to $125,000
- This role is paid hourly and is eligible for overtime.
- Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, voluntary benefits, disability insurance, 401(k), financial planning resources, paid time off, and bonus opportunity. Full details will be discussed during the interview process.
Interview process
- Round 1: Onsite interview and facility tour
- Offer decision expected to move quickly for the right candidate.
Targeted proficiencies
- GD&T
- CNC Tooling
- CNC Programming
- CAD Software
- G-Code
- M-Code
- Machine Setups for Production Runs
- Manual Machining Skills
- Citizen CNC Swiss Screw
- CNC machine programs
- Solidworks
- SWISS
- SWISS Screw Machining
- tooling diagrams
Equipment exposure
- CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
- CNC Swiss Lathe
- CNC Lathe (5+ axis)
Legal and compliance
Employment Type: Non-exempt, paid hourly with overtime
Pre-Employment Requirements
- E-Verify
- Background check
- Basic drug test
Equal Opportunity Statement
Arena Staffing and our client are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. We comply with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including California requirements related to pay scale disclosures, paid sick leave, and required reporting and recordkeeping. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.