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Mastercam Programmer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

CAM Programmer

Austin, TX · On-site

$26.25 - $36/hr

Proficiency in CAM software (e.g., Fusion 360, Mastercam, PowerMill, or similar) * Strong ... Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T * Knowledge of cutting tools, materials ...

CNC Programmer

Round Rock, TX · On-site

$30 - $41/hr

Demonstrated ability to program using CAD/CAM Mastercam software. * The ability to read blueprints ... 3-5 axis CNC mill programming * Ability to edit and create CAM Post Processors Physical ...

R&D Operations Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

The Engineer will be responsible for accelerating the development and iteration of our ... Develop, program, and optimize complex parts using CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360 ...

CNC Engineer

Pflugerville, TX · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

CNC Programming (Mastercam preferred) * Additive Experience (preferred) * Planning and Development of Lights out CNC Manufacturing * 5+ Years Experience with High Volume CNC Production

Be Seen First

Experienced programmers will take the lead on program development; if you're earlier in your career ... Experience running a surface grinder on finished parts * CAD/CAM experience -- Mastercam 2020 or ...

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Mastercam Programmer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$23

$32

$45

How much do mastercam programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for mastercam programmer in Austin, TX is $32.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.12 and $33.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Mastercam programmer?

A Mastercam programmer sets up, programs, and adjusts CNC manufacturing machinery and CAM computer software. Your responsibilities include designing tools and fixtures for improved machining, understanding speeds/feeds of tools and their effect on manufacturing cycle time, and providing support to each machinist. You actively search for process improvement opportunities, while keeping production standards and safety as top priorities. Other duties include staying updated on industry trends and incorporating developing technologies to improve manufacturing processes. Some employers require you to run studies on cost reduction and provide recommendations. You work with engineers, supervisors, and other shop personnel to resolve machining and quality issues.

What is a Mastercam programmer?

A Mastercam Programmer is a skilled professional who uses Mastercam software to create toolpaths and instructions for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. They translate technical drawings and blueprints into precise machine code, enabling the automated manufacturing of parts and components. Mastercam Programmers play a crucial role in ensuring efficient, accurate, and safe machining processes in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. Their expertise helps optimize production times, reduce waste, and improve product quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mastercam programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mastercam Programmer, you need expertise in CNC programming, machining processes, and a solid understanding of technical drawings, typically supported by experience or a relevant technical certification. Proficiency with Mastercam CAD/CAM software, G-code, and familiarity with CNC machinery are essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set standout programmers apart. These skills ensure the creation of precise, efficient toolpaths and facilitate seamless collaboration with machinists and engineers to maintain production quality and efficiency.

What are some common challenges Mastercam programmers face when transitioning from 2D to 3D machining projects?

Mastercam Programmers often encounter challenges when moving from 2D to 3D machining, such as adapting to more complex toolpath strategies, understanding advanced surface modeling, and ensuring accurate simulation to avoid costly errors. Learning how to efficiently use Mastercam's 3D features and integrating them with multi-axis machines requires additional training and practice. Collaborating closely with engineers and machinists is also essential, as projects often demand precise communication to interpret complex drawings and meet tight tolerances.

What is the difference between Mastercam Programmer vs CNC Machinist?

AspectMastercam ProgrammerCNC Machinist
CredentialsOften requires CAD/CAM software training, certifications in MastercamHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesigning and programming CNC machines, typically in manufacturing settingsOperating CNC machines, setting up and running production
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive for programming CNC toolsFound in similar industries, focusing on machine operation and setup

The Mastercam Programmer specializes in creating CNC programs using CAD/CAM software, focusing on programming and toolpath design. In contrast, the CNC Machinist operates and sets up CNC machines based on those programs. While both roles work closely in manufacturing, the Mastercam Programmer is more software-focused, whereas the CNC Machinist emphasizes machine operation and production.

What are popular job titles related to Mastercam Programmer jobs in Austin, TX?

For Mastercam Programmer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mastercam Programmer jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Mastercam Programmer jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Mastercam Programmer jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Mastercam Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Mastercam Programmer job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,104 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

CNC Machinist & Programmer, McDonald Observatory

Austin, TX • On-site


The University of Texas at Austin
Education • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 625 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Posting Title:
CNC Machinist & Programmer, McDonald Observatory
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Hiring Department:
McDonald Observatory
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Position Open To:
All Applicants
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Weekly Scheduled Hours:
40
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FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt from FLSA
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Earliest Start Date:
Immediately
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Position Duration:
Expected to Continue
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Location:
UT MAIN CAMPUS
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Job Details:
General Notes
The McDonald Observatory CNC Machinist & Programmer is responsible for producing quality precision machined parts for astronomical instruments by programming, setting up, and operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine while maintaining excellence and safety standards. Programming with MasterCAM (required ) on CNC vertical mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines. Experience with 3D surfacing.
This position is located in Austin on the UT Campus. The observatory fosters an environment that emphasizes personal responsibility, continuous improvement, teamwork, innovation, and safety. Applicants selected for interviews are encouraged to bring samples of their work and may be requested to perform MasterCAM skills.
UT Austin offers a competitive benefits package that includes:
  • 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage.
  • Retirement contributions; options are: Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
  • Paid vacation and sick time.
  • Paid holidays.
  • Please visit our Human Resources (HR) website to learn more about the total benefits offered.

Purpose
To perform highly skilled and technical supervisory work fabricating precision parts from drawings and solid models by programming, setting up, and operating CNC vertical milling machine, CNC lathe, and CNC wire EDM. Use manual machine tools and all other machine shop-related equipment as necessary.
Responsibilities
  • Fabricate high-quality, high-precision parts efficiently and on time using CAM programming and by setting up and operating CNC milling machines, lathes, and wire EDM. Use personal judgment and initiative to match the machining process, layout, and setup to the job, including designing and building fixtures and jigs when necessary. Performs other duties as required to meet the business needs.
  • Use manual milling machines, lathes, and similar equipment to fabricate parts.
  • Assist researchers and design personnel in planning instrument design and construction, drawing on practical knowledge from shop experience.
  • Maintain general use of perishable tools and instruct students and others using the machine shop as needed. Stay current on new manufacturing methods, practices, and tools. Instruct students and others using the shop as needed.
  • Assemble, modify, repair, and maintain instruments and equipment, including mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines, for the Observatory, the shop, and the Astronomy Department.

Required Qualifications
  • High school graduation or GED, supplemented by or including a vocational machine shop and other technical courses such as mathematics, physics, and blueprint reading.
  • Professional level of MasterCAM software to program CNC machines, ability to set up and operate CNC machines, and using PC computers to run programs and save files.
  • Four years skilled construction and maintenance of equipment, or as an instrument maker or machinist beyond the apprentice level.
  • Advanced knowledge of choosing and loading the correct cutting tools, tool paths and adjusting machine settings to the desired product specification.
  • Advanced knowledge using a lathe, milling machines, drill press, micrometers, and other precision measuring devices.
  • Good working knowledge of trigonometry, geometry, and basic math.
  • Follows instructions when selecting appropriate tooling and fixtures.
  • Ability to work independently, work under pressure, accept supervision, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without day-to-day supervision, and effectively communicate with supervisors, co-workers, and customers.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Motivated and shows willingness to learn.
  • Willingness to teach others machining skills if necessary.
  • Demonstrates a strong mechanical aptitude.
  • Regular and punctual attendance.
  • Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Five or more years of experience as an instrument maker, machinist, or tool and die maker.
  • Five or more years of experience programming and operating CNC mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines (specifically, Hurco, HAAS, and Fanuc WEDM), and planning, laying out and setting up tooling, jigs, and fixtures to fabricate single-part or multi-part jobs.
  • Five or more years of experience using MasterCAM software to program CNC machines.
  • Knowledge of solid modeling software (specifically, Inventor and SolidWorks), MasterCAM tool libraries, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
  • Technical courses such as machine tool programming and blueprint reading.

Salary Range
$60,000 + depending on experience and qualifications
Working Conditions
  • Usual machine, scientific, or engineering shop conditions, such as sitting, walking, standing, squatting, stooping, and reaching
  • Work under supervision
  • Maintains a safe work environment
  • Follows established procedures as well as quality and safety standards
  • May be required to work multiple machines simultaneously
  • Exposure to a variety of experimental laboratory shop conditions
  • Handles deadlines and overlapping projects
  • May work around chemicals and chemical fumes
  • May work around electrical and mechanical hazards
  • May work around standard office conditions
  • Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation and use of a computer
  • May work around bio-hazards
  • May work around hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids
  • Use of manual dexterity
  • Climbing of stairs
  • Heavy lifting and moving
  • Working with heavy machinery
  • Use of approved safety equipment if required

Work Shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • 8-hour shift plus lunch break

Required Materials
  • Letter of interest
  • Resume/CV
  • 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor

Important for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.
Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left-hand navigation menu, and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled into your application. The application is one page, and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.
Employment Eligibility:
Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.
Retirement Plan Eligibility:
The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.
Background Checks:
A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.
Pay Transparency:
The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
Employment Eligibility Verification:
If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.
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E-Verify:
The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:
  • E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

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Compliance:
Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.
The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.


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