Senior Manufacturing Engineer - CNC Programming & Machining

Our client is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to support high‑volume CNC machining operations by optimizing processes, improving OEE, reducing scrap, and ensuring production readiness. This engineer will lead CNC program development and validation, tooling and fixture optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives across machining lines that include vertical milling and horizontal machining centers.

This role is ideal for a seasoned manufacturing engineer with deep CNC programming experience, strong process‑improvement capability, and hands‑on expertise in high‑volume metal machining environments.

Onsite | No Visa Sponsorship | No Relocation Assistance

Contract Duration: 12 months | W2

Work Schedule: 1st Shift

Responsibilities:

Production Readiness & Process Optimization

• Perform other engineering duties as assigned.
• Ensure production‑part acceptance and readiness for manufacturing.
• Improve OEE, scrap performance, and process stability across machining lines.
• Maintain process integrity by developing and updating procedures, work instructions, and standard methods.

CNC Programming & Tooling

• Develop, modify, and validate CNC programs for lathes and milling machines, including toolpath optimization.
• Identify and implement optimal tooling solutions, cutting strategies, and machining parameters.
• Troubleshoot machining issues related to tooling, fixtures, CNC programs, and process flow.

Quality, Inspection & Data‑Driven Improvement

• Support first‑piece inspections and collaborate with Quality to maintain statistical process control and capability.
• Apply SPC, capability studies, and data‑driven methodologies to improve machining performance.
• Ensure alignment with GD&T requirements and CMM measurement practices.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with production, quality, tooling, and maintenance teams to drive continuous improvement.
• Support machine line readiness, problem‑solving, and corrective‑action initiatives.

Qualifications (Must-Haves)

• Strong understanding of GD&T and CMM measurement concepts.
• Experience with SPC, capability studies, and data‑driven process improvement.
• Knowledge of machining fixtures, including pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
• Familiarity with tool presetting systems (e.g., Zoller), carbide inserts, and tool holders.
• Experience with various CNC equipment types; exposure to vertical and horizontal machining centers preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent hands‑on experience.
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing environments, preferably high‑volume metal machine or automotive.
• 5+ years of hands‑on CNC programming and program modification for lathes and milling machines.
• Proficiency with Mastercam or AutoCAD for toolpath development and machining layouts.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Fuji or Mori Seiki machining centers.
• Experience in Tier‑1 automotive or large‑scale machining environments.
• Demonstrated success improving OEE, reducing scrap, or optimizing cycle times.
• Prior leadership of cross‑functional manufacturing or process‑improvement projects.