Multi-axis CNC Programmer

Position Title: CNC Programmer / Estimator (Mastercam)
Employment Type & Schedule: Direct Hire – Full Benefits – Early Start, M–F
Compensation: Feel free to add your preferred ceiling here for folks with leadership potential!
ITAR Requirements: Perm. Residency/Green Card or U.S. Citizenship Required
Location: Santa Ana, CA
Industry: Aerospace and Defense Precision Manufacturing

Company Overview:
With over fifty years of service to the aerospace, defense, and medical device sectors, our precision machining client is entering a new phase of growth under refreshed ownership. They are seeking an experienced CNC Programmer who can also contribute to job estimating, customer quoting, and operations support. The ideal candidate is not only technically skilled but also exhibits the leadership potential to eventually step into a general management or plant leadership role as the organization scales.

We are actively looking for someone who can either immediately impact CNC programming and/or estimating while ideally improving overall operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Required: Programming & Production Support

• Use Mastercam to generate CNC programs for 3-, 4-, and true 5-axis milling machines.
• Collaborate with Planning, Production, and Quality to meet daily shop goals.
• Produce accurate setup documentation and shop traveler information.
• Load and prove out programs on FANUC- and Mitsubishi-controlled mills.
• Interpret engineering blueprints with proficiency in GD&T.
• Apply DPD procedures and quality standards in line with aerospace/defense work.
• Machine a variety of aerospace alloys: aluminum, stainless, Inconel, titanium.

Preferred (plus): Quoting & Estimating

• Review customer drawings, 3D models, and technical specifications to provide accurate time and cost estimates.
• Work closely with leadership and customers to scope projects and generate quotes.
• Offer input on manufacturability, materials, and lead times during the RFQ process.
• Use your hands-on machining experience to provide practical pricing insights and quoting strategy.

Preferred (plus): Leadership & Advancement Potential

• This position has the potential to evolve into a general management or operations leadership role based on performance and interest.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and mentor shop floor staff as needed.
• Help drive the implementation of new processes and best practices in a collaborative team setting.

Requirements:

• 10+ years of CNC machining and programming experience, including true 5-axis work.
• 5+ years of Mastercam or similar CAD/CAM software use.
• Prior experience quoting or estimating precision machining jobs is highly preferred.

Required Skills/Experience:

• Proficient with FANUC and Mitsubishi control systems.
• Strong experience creating tool paths for ‘true’ 5-axis (full-motion) milling centers including those made by Okuma.
• Strong understanding of blueprint reading, GD&T, and manufacturing process flow.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Other Requirements:
• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident (required for ITAR compliance).

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and contribution
• Full benefits: Medical, PTO, 401(k), and more
• Career growth opportunities into leadership and management