CNC Process Specialist

SUMMARY OF JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide leadership and guidance to CNC Machinists who program, set up, and operate complex, multi-axis Swiss screw machines and multi-axis CNC lathes. Actively drive shop-floor efficiency. This role goes beyond standard production by analyzing toolpaths, standardizing work instructions, reducing changeover times (SMED), and leading continuous improvement projects to enhance part quality and throughput. 

SPECIFIC JOB DUTIES:

·      Provide leadership and guidance for CNC Machinists who program, set up, and operate multi-axis Swiss screw machines (e.g. Citizen, Tsugami, Tornos Deco, and/or Escomatic) and multi-axis CNC lathes (e.g. DMG Mori Seki NLX2500) to produce tight-tolerance components.

·      Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, and technical specifications.

·      Determine the most efficient tooling, feeds, and speeds for complex geometries, minimizing cycle times while maintaining strict tolerances.

·      Specify and manage cutting tools, collets, and guide bushings. Monitor tool wear and program wear offsets to prevent part defects.

·      Perform preventative maintenance and diagnose/repair machine tool malfunctions.

·      Troubleshoot G-code, tooling wear, chatter, or dimensional drift during live runs.

·      Identify and eliminate shop-floor wastes (defects, excess motion, waiting, overprocessing, and scrap).

·      Participate in the quoting process by calculating the cost and time required to machine custom parts, turning customer drawings and CAD files into profitable commercial bids.

·      Participate in or lead Kaizen events and rapid-improvement projects targeting cycle time and setup reduction.

·      Apply Lean manufacturing principles (e.g. 5S, standard work, Single-Minute Exchange of Die / SMED) to machine cells.

·      Document and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and setup sheets to ensure cross-shift repeatability.

·      Collaborate with engineering, quality, and machining teams to re-engineer fixtures, toolpaths, or cutting parameters for better part flow.

·      Create and maintain detailed setup sheets, operation manuals, and inspection reports.

·      Communicate problems and procedural issues with appropriate supervision and departments.

·      Train and mentor machinists and operators on best-practice machine setups and process controls.

·      Perform other related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

·      High school diploma or GED

·      Technical certification or Associates degree in Machining, Manufacturing or a related field is preferred

·      12+ years machining experience with CNC Swiss and CNC multi-axis lathes

·      Demonstrated track record participating in and leading shop-floor continuous improvement, 5S, Lean, root-cause analysis, and process mapping initiatives

·      Experience machining a wide variety of various metals, including stainless steel, titanium, Inconel and copper

·      Solid understanding of CNC programming (G-code/M-code) and CAM software (e.g. MasterCam)

·      Advanced blueprint reading and strong understanding of GD&T

·      Ability to read, write and communicate effectively with all other personnel

·      Ability to follow directions and perform complex duties

·      Good hand and eye coordination

·      Good manual dexterity

·      Good interpersonal skills