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Contract Cnc Programmer Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

MASS Precision

Machining Programmer

Fremont, CA

$29 - $39.75/hr

... custom contract manufacturer of electronic chassis, frames, fabrications, and turn-key electro ... Experience in CNC operations including setups * Experience using CNC Vertical, and 4-axis and 5 ...

Astranis

Machinist/Programmer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $55/hr

... contracts. Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent ... Program and set up 2, 3, 5, and 9-axis CNC mills and lathes, including tooling creation, tool ...

OMW Corporation

Senior Machinist/Programmer

Novato, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

General Description OMW Corporation is a highly respected contract manufacturing company ... Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of CNC machining and programming experience, including ...

OMW Corporation

Senior Machinist/Programmer

Novato, CA · On-site

$31 - $42.50/hr

General Description OMW Corporation is a highly respected contract manufacturing company ... Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of CNC machining and programming experience, including ...

OMW Corporation

Senior Machinist/Programmer

Novato, CA

$31 - $42.50/hr

General Description OMW Corporation is a highly respected contract manufacturing company ... Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of CNC machining and programming experience, including ...

OMW Corporation

Senior Machinist/Programmer

Novato, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

General Description OMW Corporation is a highly respected contract manufacturing company ... Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of CNC machining and programming experience, including ...

MASS Precision

CNC Lathe Programmer

Fremont, CA

... experience excelling in the custom contract manufacturer of electronic chassis, frames ... We are currently seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Programmer. First Shift: 5am - 1:30pm Second ...

MASS Precision, Inc

CNC Lathe Programmer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... experience excelling in the custom contract manufacturer of electronic chassis, frames ... We are currently seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Programmer.First Shift: 5am - 1:30pmSecond Shift ...

MASS Precision, Inc

CNC Lathe Programmer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... experience excelling in the custom contract manufacturer of electronic chassis, frames ... We are currently seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Programmer. First Shift: 5am - 1:30pm Second ...

Agility Recruiting

Engineering Manager

Fremont, CA

$185K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent experience * 7+ years of CNC programming/manufacturing engineering experience * 3+ years of leadership experience in precision machining or contract ...

SlingShot Connections

Be Seen First

CNC Machinist - Day & Swing Shift

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25 - $36/hr

Collaborate with engineering and CAM programming teams to develop and improve CNC programs ... Company Description SlingShot Connections provides contract staffing, direct hire placement ...

Leupold and Stevens

Be Seen First

Manufacturing/Process Engineer (CNC Machining)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Manufacturing/Process Engineer (CNC Machining) Starting Base Salary Range of $90,000 to $115,000 ... Interacts with suppliers, vendors, consultants, and contract engineers to obtain services or ...

Signing bonus

Astranis

Manufacturing Engineer, Additive

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $110K/yr

A successful candidate will apply knowledge of GD&T, 5-axis CNC machining, additive qualification ... Work with supplier quality and contract manufacturers, to develop their manufacturing and quality ...

Astranis

Manufacturing Engineer, Additive

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $110K/yr

... contracts. Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent ... A successful candidate will apply knowledge of GD&T, 5-axis CNC machining, additive qualification ...

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All JobsContract Cnc Programmer JobsContract Cnc Programmer Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Contract Cnc Programmer information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$20

$37

$55

How much do contract cnc programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cnc programmer in Berkeley, CA is $37.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.20 and $42.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract CNC programmer?

Contract CNC Programmers are skilled professionals who create and optimize computer numerical control (CNC) machine programs for manufacturers on a contract or temporary basis. They use specialized software to convert engineering drawings and blueprints into code that CNC machines use to produce precision parts. Unlike full-time employees, contract CNC programmers are typically hired for specific projects or periods of high demand, providing flexibility to both the employer and the programmer.

What does a contract CNC programmer do?

A computer numerical control (CNC) programmer develops software programs that direct machines to cut and shape the material into parts and tools. A contract CNC programmer is a freelance position; companies hire you on a short- or long-term contract. As a contract CNC programmer, you work with 3D computer designs, computer-aided manufacturing, and blueprint software. Your responsibilities are to review job orders, design models, perform calculations, determine appropriate tools and speed, generate program code, and run tests. Additional job duties may include operating the machines and checking for compliance with all safety standards. Once the materials are complete, you work with quality control to ensure the products are cut to specifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract CNC programmer?

To thrive as a Contract CNC Programmer, you need expertise in CNC programming, machining processes, and blueprint reading, usually supported by relevant technical education or experience. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software (such as Mastercam or SolidWorks), G-code, and CNC machine operation is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in client-driven, project-based environments. These competencies ensure precise, efficient production and successful collaboration with engineers and machinists on custom manufacturing projects.

What are some common challenges faced by contract CNC programmers when working with new clients or unfamiliar machines?

Contract CNC Programmers often need to quickly adapt to different client environments, which can include learning new software, interpreting unfamiliar design standards, and troubleshooting various CNC machines. One common challenge is ensuring compatibility between the client's CAD/CAM files and the machines on site, as well as understanding unique workflow processes. Effective communication with shop floor staff and engineers is essential to clarify project specifications and resolve production issues efficiently. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are key to overcoming these challenges and delivering high-quality programs under tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Contract Cnc Programmer vs Cnc Machinist?

AspectContract Cnc ProgrammerCnc Machinist
CredentialsTypically requires programming certifications, technical degrees, or CNC trainingRequires machining experience, technical skills, and often certifications in CNC operation
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in offices or programming stations, sometimes on-site at manufacturing facilitiesOperates CNC machines directly on shop floors
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance or temporary roles in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industriesFull-time or shift-based roles in manufacturing plants and machine shops

While both roles involve CNC technology, Contract Cnc Programmers focus on creating and optimizing CNC programs, often remotely or on a project basis. Cnc Machinists operate the machines directly, executing the programs and ensuring quality. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc Programmer jobs in Berkeley, CA?

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Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Contract Cnc Programmer job openings:

Contract Cnc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Cnc Programmer job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,841 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Machining Programmer

MASS Precision

Fremont, CA

$29 - $39.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

About Us:

MASS Precision Inc. is a global manufacturer with over 30 years of experience excelling in the custom contract manufacturer of electronic chassis, frames, fabrications, and turn-key electro-mechanical assemblies built to customer specifications.

MASS manufactures medical devices and military electronics for some of the largest companies in Silicon Valley. We are constantly improving our operations and looking for new ways to meet our Customer's needs through continuous improvement.


Position Summary:

Machining Programmer will be responsible for producing mill and lathe programs. Machines types include vertical, horizontal, 4th and 5th axis mills. Lathes include 2 axis, 3 axis, live tooling and mill turns. Software types are Mastercam and Esprit.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance, Paid Tuition, Paid Time Off, and Discounts on Public Transportation.


Overall Responsibilities:

  • Possess comprehensive knowledge of machining practices, measurement, and evaluation skills and tooling applications.
  • Complete machine setups on a wide variety of specialized production equipment.
  • Selects, aligns, holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials
  • Collaborates with engineers, production personnel, other programmers, maintenance, or others to resolve machining problems.
  • May provide training to other team members and assist management in the management of the department.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, or sample part to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished work piece, sequence of operations, and setup requirements.
  • Full working knowledge of Mastercam is necessary. Esprit experience is a plus.
  • Use, knowledge of measuring tools (dial calipers, ID gauge, threat gauges, height gauges, etc.
  • Ability to work as a team with a positive attitude

Education & Training/Experience:

  • 5-10 years of programing experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience in CNC operations including setups
  • Experience using CNC Vertical, and 4-axis and 5-axis Horizontal and Vertical Mills, CNC lathes
  • Experience with high speed machining
  • Experience machining a variety of materials
  • Mechanically inclined

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