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:
· Strong CNC programming experience using Mastercam or similar CAM software
· Experience estimating cycle times and setup times in a machining environment
· Ability to create and prove out CNC programs on the shop floor
· Solid understanding of tooling selection and machining processes
· Experience with both lathe and mill operations
· Strong blueprint reading and model interpretation skills
· Experience working with tight tolerance components
· Ability to troubleshoot machining issues in a production environment
· Strong communication skills and ability to operate between office and shop floor
Preferred:
· Background as a machinist prior to transitioning into programming or estimating
· Experience with high-performance or exotic materials such as Inconel, Monel, or Hastelloy
· Experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced oil and gas machining environments
· Experience with fixture design and process development
· Familiarity with Haas, Okuma, or Fanuc-controlled machines
· 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.