Metal Prep Programmer

Overview

About ERMCO

Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) is the leading manufacturer of distribution transformers and engineered electrical solutions, serving electric utilities, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and industrial customers across North America. Headquartered in Dyersburg, Tenn., ERMCO delivers reliable, high-quality products that power homes, businesses, and communities across North America.

With a commitment to safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, ERMCO is at the forefront of supporting grid modernization and energy transition. Our vertically integrated operations, customer-focused culture, and investment in people and technology make ERMCO the Most Valued Partner for delivering resilient, sustainable power infrastructure for the future.

Job Summary 

The Metal Prep Programmer plays a critical role in supporting ERMCO's fabrication operations by developing, optimizing, and managing CNC programs used throughout the metal preparation process. This position is responsible for translating engineering designs and production requirements into efficient machine programs that drive quality, throughput, and schedule adherence across multiple fabrication technologies.

The Metal Prep Programmer serves as the technical owner of programming activities within the Metal Preparation area, supporting laser cutting, brake forming, folding, and related fabrication processes. This role works closely with Engineering, Production Planning, Manufacturing, and Operations teams to develop efficient manufacturing methods, maximize material utilization, and ensure production schedules are achieved.

Success in this role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, effective communication skills, and the ability to balance production priorities while continuously improving fabrication processes.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities 

Programming & Technical Responsibilities

• Create, maintain, and optimize laser cutting programs and material nests using Mazak programming software.
• Develop efficient material nests to maximize sheet utilization, reduce scrap, and improve overall manufacturing efficiency.
• Create and maintain Amada programs utilizing Striker Systems software for large pole tank wall production and other fabrication requirements.
• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC press brake programs to support fabrication operations and ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Create and maintain folder programs to support metal forming operations.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and production requirements to determine optimal manufacturing methods.
• Validate programming accuracy through testing, troubleshooting, and continuous program refinement.
• Support new product introductions by creating manufacturing programs and developing processing methods.
• Identify opportunities to improve machine throughput, reduce setup time, and enhance production efficiency.

Production Planning & Coordination

• Develop and maintain daily and weekly production schedules for metal preparation equipment based on the master production schedule.
• Coordinate with Production Planning, Engineering, and Operations teams to align programming priorities with business needs.
• Monitor equipment capacity and workload to ensure effective utilization of resources.
• Communicate production schedules, priorities, and programming requirements to operators and supervisors.
• Provide technical support to machine operators during setup, production runs, and troubleshooting activities.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Serve as a technical resource for fabrication processes and equipment.
• Ensure all programs meet quality standards and product specifications.
• Investigate and resolve programming-related quality issues and production challenges.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost reduction.
• Maintain program libraries, documentation, and revision control processes.
• Support implementation of new equipment, software, and manufacturing technologies.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
• Follow all ERMCO safety policies, procedures, and quality standards.
• Collaborate effectively across departments to support operational goals.
• Adapt to changing production priorities and business needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Technology, Drafting, Industrial Technology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• 2+ years of experience in CNC, laser, or fabrication programming within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with laser cutting systems, nesting software, and CNC press brake programming preferred.
• Experience with Amada, Striker, or similar programming software preferred.
• High-volume manufacturing experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of CNC programming, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Working knowledge of CAD, ERP (Infor preferred), and manufacturing software systems.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and analytical skills with a focus on quality and efficiency.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, tape measures) and basic manufacturing math.

Job Locations