Programming Associate Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

This role focuses on independently developing advanced CNC programming solutions while taking growing ownership of manufacturing processes, supporting training efforts, and driving continuous process improvements. The CNC Programmer will create and optimize programs in Mastercam, apply tooling strategies and GD&T principles, and collaborate closely with machine shop, inspection, engineering, and planning teams to support high-quality production in a precision machining environment.

• Independently develop and improve CNC programs using Mastercam for 3-axis and simple 5-axis machining operations.
• Own and lead 5-axis programming work, including the creation of usable 5-axis toolpaths.
• Create and utilize standard manufacturing routes and write SMR, 3-axis, and simple 5-axis programs to support production.
• Develop high-speed and 3-axis toolpaths, including appropriate stepdown and finish pass strategies.
• Design simple tooling and perform simple solid modeling to support machining operations.
• Select appropriate tooling and machining resources to achieve quality, efficiency, and cost targets.
• Create detailed setup sheets to ensure consistent and repeatable machining processes.
• Verify CNC programs using Vericut and other verification tools to ensure safe and accurate execution.
• Program vacuum fixture parts and solve simple process challenges related to fixturing and machining.
• Perform process improvement activities to enhance productivity, quality, and repeatability.
• Set up and troubleshoot CNC machines to ensure programs run correctly and efficiently.
• Provide estimated completion dates (ECDs) for create, update, and process improvement jobs.
• Support production prove-outs by collaborating with machine operators and cross-functional teams on the shop floor.
• Train and support Level 1–2 programmers, sharing best practices and helping build programming capability within the team.
• Work cross-functionally with Machine Shop, Inspection, Engineering, and Planning to resolve issues and optimize processes.
• Maintain safe, organized work practices in compliance with facility standards and procedures.
• Communicate effectively with team members, ask clarifying questions, and maintain professionalism under pressure.
• Perform miscellaneous duties as assigned to support overall manufacturing and programming objectives.

• Minimum 2 years of CNC machine operation experience.
• Experience developing CNC programs using Mastercam.
• Working knowledge of inspection tools and gauges, including calipers, micrometers, thread gauges, pin gauges, height gauges, and radius gauges.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering prints.
• Proficient understanding of GD&T and core manufacturing principles.
• Basic understanding of G-Code, with proficient understanding of G-Code and M-Code programming for CNC machines.
• Strong CAD/CAM interfacing knowledge for program creation and modification.
• Ability to create and utilize standard manufacturing routes and write SMR, 3-axis, and simple 5-axis programs.
• Capability to develop high-speed and 3-axis toolpaths and select appropriate tooling.
• Ability to create setup sheets and verify programs in Vericut.
• Strong understanding of work coordinate systems (WCS) for multi-axis machining.
• Ability to create usable 5-axis toolpaths and program vacuum fixture parts.
• Experience setting up and troubleshooting CNC machines to resolve runtime issues.
• Strong mathematical aptitude to support programming, tooling, and inspection tasks.
• Ability to read gauges and instrumentation accurately for quality verification.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to ask questions and maintain professionalism under stress.
• High School Diploma or GED.

• Experience in an aerospace or aircraft machining environment.
• Preferred basic CAD/CAM understanding beyond core requirements.
• Basic Microsoft Office skills, including Word, Excel, and email.
• Basic exposure to Mastercam, with continued growth into advanced programming.
• Associate degree or technical certification in machining, manufacturing, or a related field is preferred.
• Simple tooling design capability to support machining operations.
• Ability to perform simple solid modeling to assist with program development.
• Experience performing process improvement activities in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated professionalism, confidentiality, and effective communication in cross-functional settings.
• Ability to train and mentor less experienced programmers and support team development.

The role operates in a growing defense program within a precision machining and manufacturing environment. You will work closely with machine shop, inspection, engineering, and planning teams, using CNC machines, Mastercam, Vericut, inspection tools, and standard shop instrumentation. The environment emphasizes safety, organization, and adherence to structured processes, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and collaboration across functions.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wichita, KS.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $40.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Wichita,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 28, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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.