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Freelance Cnc Router Programmer Jobs in Charleston, WV

Manufacturing Sr Engineer I

Charleston, WV ยท On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Proficient with Statistical Process Control concepts, process development, CNC programming ... routers. * Supporting a wide variety of processing applications such as machining, finishing ...

New

Freelance Cnc Router Programmer information

See Charleston, WV salary details

$16

$30

$43

How much do freelance cnc router programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance cnc router programmer in Charleston, WV is $30.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Cnc Router Programmer vs Cnc Machine Operator?

AspectFreelance Cnc Router ProgrammerCnc Machine Operator
CredentialsTechnical skills, CAD/CAM software knowledgeBasic machine operation training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, client sites, workshopsManufacturing facilities, factories
Industry UsageDesign, prototyping, custom fabricationMass production, routine operation
Search/Comparison IntentDesign, programming, freelance workOperation, manufacturing, employment

Freelance Cnc Router Programmers focus on designing and programming CNC routers for custom projects, often working independently. Cnc Machine Operators handle the day-to-day operation of CNC machines in manufacturing settings. While both roles require technical knowledge, programmers emphasize software skills and design, whereas operators focus on machine handling and safety.

What does a Freelance CNC Router Programmer do?

A Freelance CNC Router Programmer creates and optimizes programs that control CNC (computer numerical control) routers used in manufacturing and fabrication. They interpret design blueprints or CAD files to develop tool paths and instructions for cutting, carving, or shaping materials like wood, plastic, or metal. Working independently, they may collaborate with clients to customize designs, troubleshoot issues, and ensure efficient machine operation. These professionals are skilled in CAD/CAM software and understand both programming and machining processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance CNC Router Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance CNC Router Programmer, you need expertise in CNC programming, knowledge of machining processes, and proficiency in reading technical drawings, often supported by experience or a relevant certification in CNC operations. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software (such as Fusion 360 or Mastercam) and the ability to operate and troubleshoot CNC routers are essential technical competencies. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate, efficient production, minimize errors, and help maintain strong client relationships in a competitive freelance environment.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance CNC router programmers, and how can they be managed?

Freelance CNC router programmers often encounter challenges such as interpreting diverse client specifications, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring compatibility with various machine types and software. To manage these, it's important to establish clear communication with clients, set realistic timelines, and stay updated on different CAD/CAM software platforms. Building a strong portfolio and network can also help secure repeat business and referrals, making it easier to navigate fluctuations in workload.

Manufacturing Sr Engineer I

Zimmer, Inc.

Charleston, WV โ€ข On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

New


Job description

At Zimmer Biomet, we believe in pushing the boundaries of innovation and driving our mission forward. As a global medical technology leader for nearly 100 years, a patient's mobility is enhanced by a Zimmer Biomet product or technology every 8 seconds.

As a Zimmer Biomet team member, you will share in our commitment to providing mobility and renewed life to people around the world. To support our talent team, we focus on development opportunities, robust employee resource groups (ERGs), a flexible working environment, location specific competitive total rewards, wellness incentives and a culture of recognition and performance awards. We are committed to creating an environment where every team member feels included, respected, empowered and recognised.


What You Can Expect

The senior manufacturing engineer is responsible for providing manufacturing
engineering services to support efficient manufacturing processes. Engineering services
may include cell management, process development, project management, process
validation, tool design, and trouble shooting.

How You'll Create Impact
  • Creating, maintaining, and improving controlled technical documents such as prints,
    procedures, bill of materials and routers.
  • Supporting a wide variety of processing applications such as machining, finishing,
    forging, casting, cleaning, heat treating, bonding, molding, etc.
  • Conducting feasibility study to estimate product cost and analyze capital equipment,
    capacity, and capability requirements
  • Establishing and improving process methods which meet performance and quality
    requirements
  • Developing and executing project plans and schedules for work activities
  • Communicate (written and verbal) direction and project plans with appropriate
    personnel from other departments.
  • Evaluating multiple options to select the most appropriate processes and machining
    methods
  • Execute equipment qualification or process validation project(s)

This is not an exhaustive list of duties or functions and might not necessarily comprise all of the essential functions for purposes of the Americans with Disabilities Act

What Makes You Stand Out
  • Skilled and knowledgeable in manufacturing and new product processing
  • Competence with drafting standards and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Ability to balance marketing, manufacturing, and design requirements to meet customer
    requirements
  • Ability to lead and prioritize multiple medium complexity project assignments and
    complete work in a timely manner
  • Good problem-solving skills through the use of quality and statistical tools
  • Ability to effectively work within a cross-functional team to complete critical project tasks
  • Demonstrates good written and verbal communication skills
    F-01694A
  • Experienced with control procedures, such as the Change Management System,
    Nonconformance Reports, Engineering Specifications, Corrective and Preventive Action
    (CAPA), and Work Instructions
  • Proficient with Statistical Process Control concepts, process development, CNC
    programming terminology, and tooling design concepts
  • Microsoft Office Suite and Project
  • Creating, maintaining, and improving controlled technical documents such as
    prints, procedures, bill of materials and routers.
  • Supporting a wide variety of processing applications such as machining, finishing,
    forging, casting, cleaning, heat treating, bonding, molding, etc.
  • Support deployment of Operational Excellence/Process improvement initiatives in
    the plant. Examples of these programs and initiatives are Cost Saving Program,
    Class A, Workflow Lean Transformation, Quality Begins with Me, DMAIC
    Problem Solving, Lean Six Sigma, Total Productive Maintenance, etc.
  • Assists site leadership team in selecting and prioritizing projects that align with
    plant goals and strategies.
  • Responsible for the sustaining and execution of cost saving program, metric
    tracking and reports within the site.
  • Responsible to manage and complete Six Sigma Green Belt projects.
  • Maintain Class A roadmap and timeline to incorporate into the overall
    Operational Excellence Strategy.
  • Conducting feasibility study to estimate product cost and analyze capital
    equipment, capacity, and capability requirements.
  • Establishing and improving process methods which meet performance and quality
    requirements.
  • Developing and executing project plans and schedules for work activities
  • Lead engineers as Project lead on Process improvement initiatives.
  • Communicate (written and verbal) direction and project plans with appropriate
    personnel from other departments.
  • Evaluating multiple options to select the most appropriate processes and
    machining methods.
  • Execute equipment qualification or process validation project(s)
Your Background
  • B.S. in Engineering with a minimum of 3-5 years of manufacturing engineering
    experience.
  • Knowledge in Lean Principles and or Six Sigma or other problem-solving
    methodology is preferred.
Travel Expectations
  • Up to 10%

EOE/M/F/Vet/Disability

Employment Type: OTHER