CNC Programmer

Grand Rapids, MI
Machine Shop
10/27/2026
Grand Rapids, MI
Depends on Experience 
Full Time
1st

We are looking for a CNC Programmer who will actively program and maintain CNC machines for the ABT Machine Shop.    

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Programming & Technical Tasks
• Create, edit, and optimize CNC programs using Hypermill software to create programs for  milling, turning, and multi-axis machining operations.
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and 3D models to determine machining strategies, toolpaths, and tooling requirements.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, holders, speeds, and feeds based on material type and machining needs.
• Simulate and validate toolpaths to ensure accuracy, safety, and efficiency prior to production release.
• Develop and maintain detailed setup sheets and machining process documentation.

Production Support
• Collaborate with machinists to ensure programs run efficiently on the shop floor.
• Troubleshoot programming, machining, and tooling-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Adjust and optimize programs to improve cycle times, tool life, and part quality.
• Support machine setup optimization and contribute to fixture design as needed.

Quality & Compliance
• Ensure machining operations meet dimensional, tolerance, and surface finish requirements.
• Partner with Quality Assurance to resolve non-conformances and assist with root cause analysis.
• Maintain strict revision control of CNC programs, tooling data, and process documentation.

Continuous Improvement
• Identify opportunities to enhance machining processes, tooling strategies, and CNC programming standards.
• Evaluate and implement new cutting tools, technology, and programming methods.
• Support lean manufacturing initiatives and productivity enhancements within the machine shop.

Other Duties
• Maintain organized program files, tool libraries, and process documentation.
• Train machinists and operators in program interpretation, tooling setup, and machining best practices.
• Assist in estimating machining times for new parts, prototypes, or customer quotes.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong proficiency with CAM software (HyperMill, GibbsCAM, Soildworks, etc.).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D models.
• Solid understanding of G-code, M-code, and CNC control systems (Mori, Hurco, Mazak, etc.).
• Knowledge of machining fundamentals, tooling selection, work holding, and cutting strategies.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills, including geometry and trigonometry.
• Hands-on experience with mills, lathes, or multi-axis machines is preferred.
• Ability to troubleshoot machining and programming issues effectively.
• Familiarity with CAD software and model manipulation.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to precision and quality.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills across production and engineering teams.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, process optimization, or continuous improvement initiatives is a plus.