Computer Aid Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

CNC Programmer Level III

Client: Confidential Aerospace / Precision Manufacturing Company
Location: Phoenix, AZ 85027
Department: Manufacturing / CNC Programming / Engineering Support
Position Type: Direct Hire
Pay Rate: Approximately $30.00/hour, depending on experience
Workplace Type: On-Site
Industry: Aerospace Manufacturing / CNC Machining / Precision Manufacturing

Position Summary

A confidential aerospace / precision manufacturing client in Phoenix, AZ is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer Level III for a direct hire opportunity.

This role is responsible for developing complete CNC program packages using CAD and CAM software for 4-axis and 5-axis CNC milling equipment, CNC lathes, and CNC mill-turn machines. The CNC Programmer will create and support machine programs, cutter selection, setup documentation, tooling, fixture design and drafting, CNC tooling programs, verification, and shop aid sketches.

The ideal candidate will have strong CAD/CAM experience, advanced blueprint reading ability, strong shop math skills, and experience supporting complex machined parts in an aerospace or precision manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop complete CNC program packages using CAD and CAM software.
• Program for 4-axis and 5-axis CNC milling equipment, CNC lathes, and CNC mill-turn machines.
• Create machine programs, setup documentation, tooling documentation, fixture design, drafting, verification, and shop aid sketches.
• Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, and design data.
• Calculate part dimension compatibility with machines, tooling, speeds, and feed rates.
• Select cutters, tooling, and machining methods based on part requirements.
• Observe machine trial runs or conduct computer simulations to verify programs and machine functionality.
• Verify CNC code against engineering models to ensure accuracy.
• Write, store, retrieve, transfer, and modify original or existing CNC programs.
• Improve existing programs to enhance machining efficiency, quality, and repeatability.
• Coordinate with manufacturing, engineering, quality, tooling, and other functional areas as needed.
• Provide progress updates, troubleshooting reports, and status reports to management.
• Support special projects as assigned.
• Follow all safety requirements, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work environment.
• Wear required PPE in designated areas of the facility.
• Participate in required training, safety, health, and medical monitoring programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 3+ years of related CNC programming, CNC machining, or manufacturing experience required.
• 2+ years of CAD/CAM experience required.
• Experience programming CNC mills, CNC lathes, or CNC mill-turn machines.
• Experience with 4-axis or 5-axis CNC milling preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, complicated drawings, sketches, specifications, and engineering documentation.
• Ability to write machine-level instructions, including revisions to existing CNC programs.
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, cutter selection, speeds, and feeds.
• Ability to use advanced shop mathematics, charts, tables, and handbook formulas.
• Ability to understand measuring devices and inspection requirements.
• Good computer skills with the ability to query, monitor, and input NC machine and system data.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to communicate professionally and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Qualifications

• SolidWorks experience preferred.
• GibbsCAM experience preferred.
• Aerospace manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience with precision machined components.
• Experience programming complex parts with tight tolerances.
• Experience with CNC verification, simulation, and program optimization.
• Experience designing or supporting fixtures, tooling, and setup documentation.
• Experience working with engineering models and manufacturing drawings.
• Experience supporting shop floor troubleshooting and first-run prove-outs.

Software, Machines & Technical Skills

Candidates may use or be expected to work with:

• CAD software.
• CAM software.
• SolidWorks preferred.
• GibbsCAM preferred.
• 4-axis CNC milling equipment.
• 5-axis CNC milling equipment.
• CNC lathes.
• CNC mill-turn machines.
• CNC program verification tools.
• Engineering models.
• Blueprints and technical drawings.
• Setup sheets and shop aid sketches.
• Tooling and fixture documentation.
• NC machine and system data.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, stoop, bend, sit, walk, twist, kneel, and turn as required.
• Ability to lift materials up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and follow all safety and PPE requirements.
• Ability to use computers, drawings, shop documentation, and technical systems throughout the workday.
• Ability to support shop floor programming, troubleshooting, and production needs as required.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a hands-on CNC Programmer with strong CAD/CAM skills, strong blueprint reading ability, and experience supporting complex CNC machining operations. This person should be able to create full CNC program packages, support tooling and fixture needs, verify programs against engineering models, and work closely with machinists, engineering, quality, and production teams.

The strongest candidates will have experience with SolidWorks, GibbsCAM, 4-axis or 5-axis milling, CNC lathes, mill-turn machines, aerospace components, and tight-tolerance machining.