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Senior Cnc Programmer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

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$16

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$43

How much do senior cnc programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior cnc programmer in Appleton, WI is $30.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.86 and $33.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior CNC Programmer, you need advanced knowledge of CNC machining, blueprint reading, GD&T, and experience with CAD/CAM software, often backed by a degree or technical certification in manufacturing or engineering. Expertise in programming languages such as G-code, and proficiency with software like Mastercam or Siemens NX, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with machinists and engineers to optimize production. These skills ensure precision, efficiency, and high-quality output in complex manufacturing environments.

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

AspectSenior Cnc ProgrammerCnc Machinist
CredentialsTypically requires programming certifications, technical degrees, or extensive experienceUsually needs machining experience, technical training, or certifications in machine operation
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and optimizing CNC machines, often in office or engineering settingsOperating CNC machines on the shop floor, performing setup and manual adjustments
ResponsibilitiesDeveloping CNC programs, troubleshooting, and improving manufacturing processesSetting up machines, loading tools, and executing machining tasks

The main difference between a Senior Cnc Programmer and a Cnc Machinist lies in their focus: programmers develop and optimize CNC code, while machinists operate and set up machines. Both roles require technical skills, but the programmer's role is more design and process-oriented, whereas the machinist's role is hands-on manufacturing.

What is a senior CNC programmer?

Senior CNC Programmers are experienced professionals who create, modify, and optimize computer numerical control (CNC) programs for manufacturing machinery. They interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications to write precise code that directs machines to cut, shape, or assemble materials. In addition to programming, they often oversee junior programmers, troubleshoot production issues, and work closely with engineers and machinists to ensure high-quality parts are produced efficiently.

Is there a demand for senior CNC programmers?

Senior CNC programmers are in high demand due to the need for skilled operators who can program, set up, and operate complex CNC machinery. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing increasingly seek experienced professionals with knowledge of CAD/CAM software and precision machining. The role often requires certifications and advanced technical skills, contributing to strong job prospects.

How does a senior CNC programmer typically collaborate with engineers and machinists during the production process?

Senior CNC Programmers work closely with engineers to review technical drawings and specifications, ensuring that the machining strategies align with design intent. They also regularly communicate with machinists on the shop floor to address any issues that arise during setup or production, such as tool selection, programming adjustments, or troubleshooting errors. Effective collaboration is key for optimizing manufacturing efficiency, minimizing errors, and delivering high-quality finished parts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc Programmer jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Cnc Programmer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
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Senior Cnc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Cnc Programmer job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,826 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Senior CNC Machinist / Programmer - 2nd Shift (GibbsCAM)

Ravelin Defense

Green Bay, WI

$40.88 - $44.98/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

At a glance

Company: Ravelin Defense
Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin
Base Pay: $35.88–$39.98/hr
Shift Premium: Additional $5.00/hr
Total Hourly Pay: $40.88–$44.98/hr
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: 2nd Shift | Monday–Thursday, 3:30 PM–3:00 AM
Experience: Advanced CNC setup and programming experience
Machines: CNC mills • CNC lathes • Large bridge mills • Horizontal boring mills
CAM Software: GibbsCAM preferred

Why join Ravelin Defense?

This position is for an experienced machinist who can take ownership of difficult work—not someone who needs every step mapped out for them.

Ravelin Defense’s Green Bay operation machines large, complex components and weldments used in mission-critical defense applications. As a Level III Machinist, you’ll be expected to set up and program challenging jobs, use probing systems, troubleshoot programming and machining problems, and recommend practical solutions when the original process is not working.

You’ll be joining a defense manufacturer with substantial machining, fabrication, welding, and engineering capabilities. Ravelin supports major military programs and customers including the U.S. Department of Defense, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems.

The company also uses a formal skills matrix. You’ll meet with your manager monthly to review your capabilities, identify any gaps, and understand what is required to advance toward the Lead Machinist pay level.

⚙️ What you'll be doing

  • Set up, program, and operate CNC machining equipment
  • Program large, complex components and fabricated weldments
  • Create, edit, and troubleshoot programs using GibbsCAM and G-code
  • Work across different CNC machines and control platforms
  • Select tooling, fixtures, cutting parameters, and machining strategies
  • Set work offsets and use probing systems
  • Interpret complex blueprints, drawings, and specifications
  • Establish and verify workholding for large components
  • Inspect machined features using precision measuring equipment
  • Diagnose programming, tooling, setup, and machining problems
  • Recommend alternative methods when a process or setup is not working
  • Identify and document nonconforming components
  • Provide technical support and guidance to other machinists
  • Work with programming, quality, engineering, and production teams
  • Maintain accurate job-time and production records

️ Machines, controls & software

Ravelin Defense’s Green Bay machining capabilities include:

  • Feeler bridge mills
  • VisionWide bridge mills
  • Toshiba horizontal boring mills
  • Haas CNC vertical mills
  • Haas CNC turning equipment
  • Large-format CNC machining equipment
  • Multiple CNC control platforms
  • GibbsCAM
  • G-code programming
  • Machine probing systems
  • Calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision inspection tools

The ideal candidate is comfortable adapting across different machines and controls rather than being limited to one equipment brand.

⭐ Shop highlights

  • $40.88–$44.98/hour including shift premium
  • Four-day Monday–Thursday schedule
  • Large-part and large-weldment machining
  • Complex defense manufacturing work
  • Substantial in-house machining and fabrication capabilities
  • Opportunity to solve difficult setup and programming problems
  • Defined path toward Lead Machinist
  • Monthly skills-matrix and advancement reviews
  • Work supporting major U.S. military platforms
  • AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified organization

✅ What we're looking for

Required

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Advanced CNC setup and machining experience
  • Ability to program complex parts and large weldments
  • Strong blueprint and technical-drawing interpretation skills
  • Ability to independently select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies
  • Experience setting tooling and work offsets
  • Experience using machine probing systems
  • Ability to troubleshoot CNC programs and machining processes
  • Ability to recommend practical solutions or alternative processes
  • Ability to use precision measuring instruments
  • Willingness to work the full second-shift schedule

Preferred

  • GibbsCAM or Virtual Gibbs programming experience
  • Experience operating multiple CNC controls
  • Large bridge mill or horizontal boring mill experience
  • Large-part or fabricated-weldment machining experience
  • G-code programming proficiency
  • Experience supporting or mentoring less-experienced machinists
  • ISO or AS9100 defense manufacturing experience

Why you'll like working here

This role offers advanced machinists challenging work, strong second-shift compensation, and the authority to solve problems instead of simply running an established process.

The skills-matrix structure also makes advancement more transparent. Monthly reviews identify exactly where you stand and what you need to demonstrate to move toward the Lead Machinist level, which has a base pay range of $42.03–$44.08/hour before the second-shift premium.

Pay, benefits & schedule

Level III Base Pay: $35.88–$39.98/hr
Second-Shift Premium: Additional $5.00/hr
Total Pay Range: $40.88–$44.98/hr

Schedule:
Monday–Thursday
3:30 PM–3:00 AM
Full-Time | 2nd Shift

Additional benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.

About Ravelin Defense

Ravelin Defense designs and manufactures armor, survivability systems, precision-machined components, fabricated structures, and advanced defense products. The company was formed through the combination of ArmorWorks Enterprises and Fox Valley Metal Tech.

Its Green Bay operation brings together precision machining, large-scale fabrication, welding, engineering, and prototyping capabilities. The company’s equipment supports both conventional precision machining and the production of large, complex components and weldments.

Ravelin works with the U.S. Department of Defense and major contractors including Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems. Its manufacturing supports Columbia-class submarines, Ford-class aircraft carriers, Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, and other military platforms.

Ravelin operates multiple advanced manufacturing facilities and is AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certified, NAVSEA-approved, and ITAR registered.

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If you can independently program, set up, troubleshoot, and improve complex CNC machining work, apply today through hireCNC.

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