Design- CNC Programmer

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Design- CNC Programmer in our Fullerton, CA location.  

Summary:

The CNC Specialist serves as the technical leader for CNC manufacturing operations, responsible for programming, tooling strategy, process optimization, machine performance, and manufacturing support across all CNC equipment. This role partners with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Maintenance, Purchasing, and Tooling Suppliers to develop standardized machining processes, maximize spindle utilization, reduce setup times, improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), and support lights-out manufacturing initiatives.

The CNC Specialist is expected to drive continuous improvement through standardized tooling, machining best practices, operator development, vendor collaboration, and advanced manufacturing technologies while ensuring safe, reliable, and cost-effective production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop, optimize, and maintain CNC programs using Mastercam.
• Program and support Vertical Machining Centers (VMC), Horizontal Machining Centers (HMC), CNC Lathes, Swiss-Type CNC Machines, Multi-Spindle Screw Machines, Mill-Turn Centers, Dual-Spindle, Multi-Turret, and Triple-Turret CNC equipment.
• Develop standardized machining strategies that maximize machine performance, improve repeatability, and reduce setup time.
• Optimize cycle times, toolpaths, feeds and speeds, cutter engagement, and machining parameters to improve productivity and quality.
• Support new product introduction by developing manufacturing processes from prototype through full-rate production.

Tooling & Manufacturing Support

• Develop and implement standardized tooling systems across multiple machine platforms.
• Establish redundant tooling strategies to maximize spindle utilization and minimize production interruptions.
• Design and improve work holding, fixtures, tool packages, and setup methods that increase manufacturing flexibility.
• Evaluate cutting tool performance and implement improvements that extend tool life, improve surface finish, and reduce machining costs.
• Support lights-out manufacturing through robust tooling strategies, process reliability, and machine readiness.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and process issues while providing hands-on support to manufacturing operations.

Vendor & Purchasing Coordination

• Serve as the primary technical liaison between Manufacturing and tooling suppliers.
• Coordinate with cutting tool manufacturers to evaluate new tooling technologies, machining strategies, coatings, inserts, holders, and work holding solutions.
• Partner with Purchasing to define tooling requirements, obtain quotations, manage supplier recommendations, and support procurement activities.
• Assist with tooling cost reduction initiatives through standardization, supplier partnerships, and continuous evaluation of new technologies.
• Coordinate vendor visits, technical demonstrations, process trials, and equipment evaluations.
• Support capital equipment projects by recommending tooling packages, accessories, automation solutions, and machining technologies.

Supervisory Responsibilities:                                           

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Basic Qualifications:

• Knowledgeable in GD&T
• Minimum 3 years of design experience
• Proficient in creating drawings and 3D models 
• Proficient in creating parts and assemblies in SolidWorks 
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Mastercam programming experience.
• Experience supporting high-volume precision manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Vertical Machining Centers (VMC)
  • Horizontal Machining Centers (HMC)
  • CNC Turning Centers
  • Swiss-Type CNC Machines
  • Multi-Spindle Screw Machines
  • Dual-Spindle CNC Machines
  • Multi-Turret and Triple-Turret Turning Centers
  • Mill-Turn Machines
  • Automated and Lights-Out Manufacturing Systems
• Experience with cutting tool selection, workholding, fixture design, and tooling standardization.
• Understanding of GD&T, machining fundamentals, manufacturing drawings, and process documentation.
• Experience coordinating with tooling suppliers and supporting Purchasing in tooling procurement.
• Experience developing technical training programs and mentoring CNC personnel.
• Strong communication, project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Fastener or metal forming experience is preferred
• Knowledgeable about various manufacturing processes
• Experienced in Pro Engineer, MRP/ERP system, SolidWorks Manage, SolidWorks PDM
• Bachelors’ degree from an accredited institution

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. 

• Frequently required to stand and sit. 

• Frequently required to walk and talk or hear. 

• Occasionally lifts and/or moves up to 30 pounds. 

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is low to moderate.  Hearing protection is required on the Manufacturing floor.

Benefits/Salary: 

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position is $75,000 to $90,000.