Manufacturing Engineer CNC Programmer

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Manufacturing Engineer with strong CNC programming and machining expertise to drive process optimization, cycle time reduction, and manufacturing efficiency improvements. This is a hands-on role for an experienced master programmer who can develop, standardize, and optimize CNC programs across mills and lathes while improving tooling strategies, setup efficiency, and overall equipment performance.

You will work closely with machinists and production leadership to deliver measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and repeatability for tight-tolerance, high-precision components.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and standardize CNC programs (G-code and/or CAM) for lathes and milling machines
• Improve machining efficiency through cycle time reduction, setup optimization, and process standardization
• Serve as CNC programming SME for complex, tight-tolerance components
• Implement tooling strategies to improve tool life, surface finish, and process stability
• Lead setup reduction initiatives through improved fixturing, workflows, and standardized work instructions
• Perform machine prove-outs, program validation, and troubleshooting on the shop floor
• Apply GD&T and blueprint interpretation to ensure manufacturability and precision
• Collaborate with machinists and engineering teams to identify root causes and implement sustainable improvements
• Support continuous improvement (Lean/Kaizen) initiatives with measurable production impact
• Assist with process planning, routing, setup sheets, and manufacturing documentation
• Support adoption of automation, pallet systems, and manufacturing technology improvements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience
• 7+ years of CNC machining experience with significant programming responsibility
• Expert-level CNC programming skills (G-code and/or CAM systems)
• Strong experience with lathes and/or milling machines in production environments
• Proven success improving cycle time, setup reduction, or machining efficiency
• Experience machining stainless steel, brass, and high-performance alloys (e.g., Alloy 20, Hastelloy, Duplex, or similar)
• Strong understanding of GD&T and technical blueprint interpretation
• Experience with tooling selection, machining strategies, and fixture design
• Hands-on background in tight-tolerance, high-precision manufacturing environments
• Strong problem-solving and process improvement mindset

Preferred Experience

• CAM systems (advanced user) for CNC program development and optimization
• Automation, pallet systems, or lights-out manufacturing environments
• ERP systems (Syteline or similar)
• Experience in aerospace, medical device, oil & gas, power generation, or precision machining industries
• Demonstrated success leading measurable manufacturing improvements (OEE, cycle time, tool life, setup reduction)

Work Environment & Requirements

• On-site role in a manufacturing/shop-floor environment (Bethlehem, PA 18020)
• Regular daily interaction with production and machining teams is required
• Ability to safely navigate a manufacturing facility and perform occasional physical tasks (lifting up to 25 lbs, bending, stooping)
• Consistent attendance and reliability are essential

Location Preference

Candidates located in or near the Lehigh Valley region (Bethlehem, Allentown, Easton, and surrounding areas) are strongly preferred due to the on-site nature of the role and lack of relocation support.