Title:CNC Programmer / Estimator
Location:Houston, TX Area
Duration:Full-Time
Work Requirements: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Summary
We are seeking a CNC Programmer / Estimator to support a high-capability precision manufacturing environment serving aerospace, oil and gas, automotive, and advanced industrial markets.
This is not a basic programming role. This position operates as a hybrid across CNC programming, manufacturing estimating, and shop floor troubleshooting. The right candidate will split time between office-based responsibilities such as quoting and programming, and hands-on involvement on the production floor proving out programs and supporting machinists.
This role exists due to continued business growth and shifting customer demand. It requires someone who is adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of moving work efficiently from print to production in a fast-paced job shop environment.
Responsibilities
CNC Programming & Production Support
- Develop CNC programs using Mastercam or similar CAM software
- Prove out new programs on the shop floor and make real-time adjustments
- Troubleshoot machining and programming issues alongside machinists and operators
- Support multi-axis machining including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis environments
- Collaborate with shop personnel to improve programming efficiency and production flow
Estimating & Quoting
- Review customer drawings and specifications to support quoting efforts
- Estimate cycle times, setup times, and overall production requirements
- Evaluate tooling, workholding, and machining approach during quoting
- Support accurate and timely responses to customer quote requests
Process Improvement
- Contribute to fixture design and machining strategy development
- Identify opportunities to improve cycle times and programming efficiency
- Support continuous improvement across production and estimating workflows
Qualifications
Required:
ยท Strong CNC programming experience using Mastercam or similar CAM software
ยท Experience estimating cycle times and setup times in a machining environment
ยท Ability to create and prove out CNC programs on the shop floor
ยท Solid understanding of tooling selection and machining processes
ยท Experience with both lathe and mill operations
ยท Strong blueprint reading and model interpretation skills
ยท Experience working with tight tolerance components
ยท Ability to troubleshoot machining issues in a production environment
ยท Strong communication skills and ability to operate between office and shop floor
Preferred:
ยท Background as a machinist prior to transitioning into programming or estimating
ยท Experience with high-performance or exotic materials such as Inconel, Monel, or Hastelloy
ยท Experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced oil and gas machining environments
ยท Experience with fixture design and process development
ยท Familiarity with Haas, Okuma, or Fanuc-controlled machines
ยท Experience in small-part, high-mix job shop environments
Work Environment
- Clean, organized, and air-conditioned facility
- Quality-focused, methodical production environment
- High variety of work across multiple industries
- Structured workflow with strong leadership visibility
- Collaborative, team-oriented shop culture
EEO Statement
Summa Staffing Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.