CNC Lead Programmer

EZARC, INC.

CNC Lead Programmer

Job Description

1. Role Details

Job Title

CNC Lead Programmer

Division

Utah Fab / Manufacturing

Department

FAB 3, Laser

Reports To

Shop Foreman

Direct Reports

None

Location

Pleasant Grove, Utah

FLSA Status

Non-exempt

Employment Type

Full time

Pay Range

$28 to $38 per hour, based on demonstrated skills and experience

2. Position Summary

The CNC Lead Programmer turns fabrication drawings into cut-ready programs for the shop's CNC laser table, then runs and maintains the machine. This person imports and edits DXF, DWG, and NC1 files in Radan, builds efficient nests, sets up and runs each job, and checks finished parts against the drawing.

Why This Role Matters

Every part the shop builds starts at the laser. A good program cuts the right part the first time, uses the least material, and keeps every station after it supplied. A bad one wastes steel, stops the line, and creates rework downstream. Efficient nesting is also where the shop lives the Zero Waste value every day.

3. Reporting Structure and Decision Rights

This role owns

• Programming and nesting every laser job in Radan.
• Machine setup, consumables, and cut settings for each job.
• Daily cleaning, lubrication, and calibration of the laser.
• First-part checks before running the full nest.
• Keeping cut parts tagged, organized, and traceable.

This role escalates

• Drawings that are unclear, conflict, or don't match the latest revision. These go to the Shop Foreman before cutting.
• Machine faults or repairs beyond daily maintenance.
• Material that is wrong, damaged, or short.
• Cut schedule conflicts that will delay the next station.

4. Responsibilities

Program and nest

• Import, check, and edit DXF, DWG, and NC1 files in Radan.
• Build nests that meet the cut schedule and get the most parts from each sheet or plate.
• Track and reuse remnants where possible.
• Confirm part revisions match the current drawing before release.

Set up and run

• Load and unload plate and sheet safely, using cranes, lift tables, or forklifts as trained.
• Select and install consumables, set cut parameters, and monitor cut quality.
• Run a first-part check before cutting the full nest.

Inspect and organize

• Inspect cut parts with tape measure and calipers against the drawing.
• Mark or tag parts so each one can be traced to its job and material.
• Keep finished parts tidy on pallets or in bins and ready for the next station.

Maintain the machine

• Perform daily cleaning, lubrication, and calibration.
• Follow laser safety, assist gas, and fume extraction procedures.
• Report problems early so small issues don't become downtime.

Records and teamwork

• Keep job lists, task lists, and deadlines current.
• Work with the Shop Foreman and Project Manager to set cut priorities.
• Cross-train on other shop tasks when needed.

5. Qualifications

Required

• Experience programming and nesting for a CNC laser, plasma, or similar cutting machine.
• Working knowledge of CAD/CAM software. Radan experience, or ability to learn it quickly.
• Ability to read and interpret fabrication and part drawings.
• Skill with a tape measure and calipers.
• Comfort with computers and managing files and folders.
• Ability to read work orders and communicate clearly with the team about work instructions and safety.

Preferred

• 2 or more years of CNC laser programming in steel fabrication.
• Experience importing NC1 files from Tekla Structures or similar detailing software.
• Experience operating a fiber laser.
• Forklift or overhead crane training.

6. Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform these essential functions, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Stand and walk for most of an 8 to 10 hour shift.
• Lift and move up to 50 pounds, and more with cranes or lift aids.
• Bend, reach, and handle plate and parts safely.
• Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, and safety-toe boots.

7. Work Environment

This role works in an active steel fabrication shop in Pleasant Grove. Time is split between the programming station and the laser table. The shop has noise, cranes, forklifts, and welding nearby. PPE is required on the shop floor.

8. Schedule

Full time. Shifts are typically 8 to 10 hours. Overtime may be needed to meet production schedules. [Confirm shift: day or swing.]

9. Performance Expectations

This role is measured on keeping the laser ahead of the shop, cutting it right the first time, and getting the most from every sheet.

Measure

What good looks like

Programs ready

Programs and nests are ready before the cut schedule needs them. The laser never waits on programming.

First-time quality

Parts are cut to the current drawing revision. No rework caused by a programming error.

Material use

Nests are efficient and usable remnants are tracked and reused.

Machine care

Daily cleaning, lubrication, and calibration are done and logged every shift.

Organized output

Every cut part is tagged and staged for the next station by end of shift.

10. Compensation and Benefits

$28 to $38 per hour, based on demonstrated skills and experience.

Health, dental, and vision insurance. Health Savings Account.

Short-term and long-term disability. Life insurance.

Matching 401(k) plan.

Paid time off and paid holidays.

Employee Assistance Program, employee referral program, and professional development assistance.

11. Compliance Requirements

• Pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.
• Background screening.

12. Equal Employment Opportunity

EZARC, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.