CNC Programmer

THE ROLE:

The CNC Programmer, Airfoil Department is responsible for developing, proving out, and continuously improving CNC programs for 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines used to produce complex turbine airfoil components. This role works closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and shop floor personnel to ensure programs produce parts efficiently, safely, and to specification, and reports directly to the General Manager.

RESPONSIBILITIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs using CAM software for 3, 4, and 5-axis milling machines producing turbine airfoil components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, 3D CAD models, and GD&T to create accurate, efficient machining programs for complex airfoil geometries.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, feeds and speeds, work-holding, and machining strategies to optimize cycle time, tool life, and surface finish.
• Prove out new and revised programs at the machine, including first-article setups, and make real-time adjustments to resolve issues during run-off.
• Troubleshoot and revise existing programs to address quality issues, tool wear, machine alarms, or process deviations identified during production.
• Partner with Quality to review first-article and in-process inspection data, adjusting programs and offsets as needed to maintain conformance to specification.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering on process planning, fixture/tooling design, and continuous improvement of airfoil machining processes.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date program documentation, revision history, setup sheets, and tool lists for all programs.
• Support selection and design of tooling and work-holding fixtures in coordination with tooling engineering or outside vendors.
• Train and support machine operators and Tech Leads on program operation, offsets, and troubleshooting.
• Identify and implement process improvements to reduce cycle time and scrap/rework and to improve throughput on airfoil CNC machines.
• Maintain compliance with applicable quality systems (e.g., AS9100/ISO 9001) and customer specifications in all programming and documentation practices.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for programming-related nonconformances.
• Communicate program status, risks, and improvement opportunities directly to the General Manager as needed.

JOB REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

• ​Associate's degree in Machine Tool Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, CNC Programming, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education, training, and hands-on experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum 5 years of CNC programming experience, with significant hands-on experience programming 4- and 5-axis milling machines.
• Direct experience programming and/or machining airfoils, seals, diaphragms, or other complex contoured components strongly preferred, ideally in an aerospace, power generation, or precision turbine manufacturing environment.
• Experience with CAM software packages such as Mastercam, Siemens NX, ESPRIT, or similar.
• Hands-on experience programming and/or operating CNC machines with multiple controller types, such as Fanuc, OSP (Okuma), Siemens, and Heidenhain.
• Experience using in-machine probing systems (e.g., Renishaw or equivalent) for part setup, in-process inspection, and offset correction preferred.
• Strong knowledge of multi-axis (3, 4, and 5-axis) CNC milling programming techniques and machine kinematics.
• Proficiency with CAM software and the ability to work from 3D CAD models (e.g., SolidWorks, NX, CATIA).
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and blueprints for airfoil and other turbine components.
• Solid understanding of cutting tool selection, feeds/speeds, work-holding, and machining strategies for difficult-to-machine materials (e.g., nickel-based superalloys, titanium, and stainless steels common in turbine components).
• Familiarity with CMM or other inspection data and the ability to translate inspection results into program or offset corrections.
• Working knowledge of AS9100/ISO 9001 quality systems and associated documentation requirements.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently at the machine to prove out and refine programs.
• Good communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with engineering, quality, Tech Leads, machine operators, and the General Manager.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position can be required to participate in the company random or customer specific drug and alcohol screening and background check.
• Ability to lift 30 lbs.
• Ability to professionally handle stressful situations.
• Outgoing personality to interact with entire company and customers.
• Organization skills to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods of times, able to reach above head, bend and stand.
• Able to pass a pre-employment drug, alcohol test and background check.
• Must not have allergies or issues related to handling oils or metals including aluminum, copper, bronze and steel.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• While performing the duties of this position, the employee will routinely enter a shop environment and will be exposed to moving mechanical parts. While the work area may be described as generally clean, safe, and "not loud", there will be machine operations that generate moderate noise and metal particles.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive Pay
• Paid Time Off
• Medical / Dental / Vision
• 401k
• Employee Incentive Programs
• Employee Reimbursement Programs

Come Join Rotating Machinery Services Inc. and watch your Career go TURBO! Visit www.rotatingmachinery.com to learn more about who we are and what we do.

ABOUT RMS

Rotating Machinery Services (RMS Inc.) was established in 1998 with the vision to reinvent the concept of an aftermarket turbomachinery business. The goal was to provide turbomachinery operators with unparalleled service based on established relationships, solid engineering, and technical expertise - all backed by responsiveness in competitive prices and lead times. RMS’ commitment to quality penetrates every aspect of the organization and in the guiding force for all decision making. With an equal blend of cutting-edge technology, engineering experience, and the work of skilled crafts people, RMS continuously delivers the best possible results to customers. RMS is a nimble organization with a collaborative culture of individuals who come to work every day with a desire to improve upon their craft and further the rotating machinery industry. RMS Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.