Mastercam Programming Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: CNC Programmer

Job Description

This role focuses on programming and optimizing 3–5 axis Vertical Machining Centers and Horizontal Machining Centers using CAD/CAM tools, with a strong emphasis on hands-on machining. You will take ownership of projects from initial concept through full production readiness, applying deep knowledge of machining processes, cutting tools, fixturing strategies, and material machinability. The position requires a self-directed professional who is comfortable spending part of the day on the manufacturing floor to validate and refine CNC programs.

Responsibilities

• Create, optimize, and validate CNC programs for 3–5 axis Vertical Machining Centers and Horizontal Machining Centers using Mastercam software.
• Interpret engineering drawings and 3D models to develop efficient and robust machining strategies.
• Design, document, and standardize work holding and fixturing solutions to ensure repeatable and accurate machining processes.
• Select appropriate cutters, tooling, and machining parameters based on material type, tolerance requirements, and machine capabilities.
• Perform machine setup and prove-out on the shop floor, adjusting toolpaths, feeds, and speeds as needed to achieve quality and productivity targets.
• Utilize probing cycles and Macro B programming to automate setup, verification, and in-process inspection checks.
• Troubleshoot machining challenges such as chatter, dimensional variation, work holding issues, and tool performance concerns, implementing corrective actions.
• Create and maintain detailed setup sheets, tool lists, and process documentation to support consistent production.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure manufacturability, repeatability, and adherence to specifications.
• Drive continuous process improvements related to cycle time reduction, tool life optimization, quality enhancement, and workflow efficiency.
• Assist the quoting team by providing accurate estimates for cycle times and fixture costs.
• Create detailed setup layouts in SolidWorks, including work holding, datums, tooling clearance, and machine orientation to support accurate and repeatable setups.
• Spend designated periods on the manufacturing floor to support production, validate programs, and provide technical guidance to the team.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency with Mastercam, including current or recent versions (such as Version 2026).
• Strong knowledge of material machinability, cutting tools, and machining parameters.
• Hands-on experience with 3–5 axis Vertical Machining Centers and Horizontal Machining Centers.
• Ability to create fixtures, work holding, and tooling concepts that support repeatable machining.
• Strong understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerancing.
• Experience with probing cycles and Macro B programming for automated setup and verification.
• Ability to independently manage projects from concept through production readiness.
• Ability to work closely with and train Process Engineers and machine operators.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Comfort working on the manufacturing floor to support setup, prove-out, and troubleshooting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Mastercam 2026.
• Experience using CAD/CAM tools alongside SolidWorks for detailed setup layouts.
• Background in creating and maintaining structured process documentation, including setup sheets and tool lists.
• Experience supporting quoting activities with cycle time and fixture cost estimates.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and professional growth. You will have access to medical, dental, and vision coverage, including options such as PPO and HDHP with HSA, as well as short-term and long-term disability insurance. The company provides employer-paid life insurance and AD&D with options to add coverage for yourself and your family, plus supplemental critical illness and accident insurance. A 401(k) plan with a strong employer match and access to a personal retirement advisor helps you plan for the future. You can enjoy a generous PTO policy, nine paid holidays per year, and 100% tuition reimbursement for job-related classes to support ongoing development. The company also offers reimbursement for personal protective equipment, a uniform rental service, and regular employee events that foster a sense of community and recognition.

Work Environment

This is a first-shift position, offering some flexibility with a schedule. You will work in a manufacturing environment that requires regular presence on the shop floor around Vertical and Horizontal Machining Centers. The role involves using Mastercam, CAD/CAM tools, and SolidWorks, as well as standard machining and inspection equipment. Personal protective equipment is supported through reimbursement, and a uniform rental service is provided to help maintain appropriate work attire for the production environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Carol Stream, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

• Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical insurance (PPO and HDHP with HSA) w/ Prescription Coverage
• Dental PPO Insurance
• Vision PPO Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Company Paid Life Insurance and AD & D – Including options to add on additional life insurance for yourself, spouse & children.
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• 401(k) Fidelity Plan with strong employer match
• Personal Retirement Advisor
• Generous PTO Policy and 9 Paid Holidays per year
• 100% Tuition Reimbursement for Job-Related Classes
• Personal Protective Equipment reimbursement (safety glasses, shoes, etc.)
• Uniform Rental Service
• Employee Events

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Carol Stream,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 25, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.