CNC Programming Specialist in Muskegon, Michigan at Waseyabek Development Company

Baker Engineering, LLC’s (Baker) core business centers around the design and development of high-tech, high-performance technologies for a variety of applications, from custom military and commercial engines, to engine components, to the production of parts and mechanical assemblies for other industries. Baker is a division of Waséyabek Development Company, LLC that is wholly owned by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, a Federally recognized Indian Tribe.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior CNC Programming & Manufacturing Systems Specialist collaborates with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams to develop, optimize, and maintain CNC machining processes for prototype and production components. This position is responsible for CNC programming, process development, fixture design support, machine reliability, preventative maintenance coordination, continuous improvement initiatives, quoting support, and technical leadership.

The Specialist develops efficient machining strategies utilizing Mastercam software while supporting machine uptime, tooling optimization, manufacturing workflow improvements, and production readiness. This role serves as one of the primary technical resources for CNC manufacturing throughout the organization.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

CNC Programming & Process Development

• Create, modify, optimize, and maintain CNC programs using Mastercam for multi-axis milling and turning operations.
• Develop machining strategies that maximize efficiency, tool life, and quality.
• Write CNC programs both offline and directly at CNC machines.
• Develop standardized machining processes for prototype and production work.
• Create setup documentation, tooling sheets, and operator instructions.
• Maintain revision control for CNC programs and manufacturing documentation.
• Troubleshoot programming issues and implement corrective actions.
• Continuously improve cycle times while maintaining quality standards.

Manufacturing Engineering

• Evaluate new manufacturing opportunities for feasibility and manufacturability.
• Assist estimating by providing machining strategies, cycle time estimates, tooling recommendations, and quote input.
• Develop complete manufacturing workflows for new products.
• Support prototype development, including military and commercial programs.
• Collaborate with Engineering regarding fixture concepts and manufacturing improvements.
• Assist with fixture design and workholding improvements.
• Specify and order cutting tools, fixtures, and manufacturing materials.

Machine Reliability & Process Optimization

• Monitor CNC machine performance and identify opportunities to improve reliability.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance activities with maintenance personnel.
• Assist in troubleshooting machine, tooling, fixture, and process issues.
• Support machine changeovers and process validation.
• Analyze production data to identify recurring manufacturing issues.
• Recommend equipment upgrades and process improvements.
• Support predictive maintenance efforts by monitoring machine performance trends.
• Improve machine utilization and reduce downtime through continuous improvement initiatives.

Production Support

• Set up and validate new jobs.
• Build prototype and production parts to specification.
• Support first article inspections and process validation.
• Perform part quality verification as required.
• Assist production personnel with technical machining issues.
• Optimize tooling and machining parameters.
• Participate in root cause investigations for quality concerns.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Mentor programmers, machinists, and setup personnel.
• Train operators on machining best practices and basic troubleshooting.
• Lead technical problem-solving efforts.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop manufacturing standards and best practices.
• Support ISO/AS quality system requirements.
• Promote safe manufacturing practices throughout the facility.

Communication

• Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Production departments.
• Effectively communicate project status and technical recommendations.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and manufacturing documentation.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 5 years CNC programming experience.
• Advanced experience programming multi-axis CNC milling and turning centers.
• Advanced proficiency with Mastercam.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
• Experience developing manufacturing processes.
• Experience troubleshooting machining issues.
• Working knowledge of tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, and machining dynamics.
• Ability to independently manage multiple technical projects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to pass background investigation.
• U.S. Citizenship required (ITAR compliance).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• Lean Manufacturing experience.
• Six Sigma training or certification.
• ISO 9001 and/or AS9100 experience.
• Experience with ERP/MRP manufacturing systems.
• Experience with robotics or CNC automation.
• CAM post processor knowledge.
• Experience implementing standardized machining processes.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position operates in a professional office environment as well as a climate-controlled production shop.

TRAVEL

This position may require travel up to 10% of the time

POSITION TYPE

Full-Time Hourly (or Salary Exempt if desired)

RELOCATION

Relocation expenses are not provided

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to walk production floor frequently.
• Lift up to 50 lbs.
• Manual dexterity for tooling and machine setup.
• Ability to safely work around manufacturing equipment.
• Use of required PPE.

Additional recommendations

• Machine simulation and collision avoidance.
• Tool library and cutting parameter management.
• Standardization of programming methods across all CNC equipment.
• Support for automation, probing, and in-process inspection.
• CAM post processor testing and validation.
• Participation in capital equipment selection.
• Ownership of machining best practices documentation.
• KPI tracking for machine utilization, OEE, setup reduction, cycle time improvements, and programming efficiency.

DISCLAIMER

This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.

Native American & Veteran Hiring Preferences will be applied in accordance with Waséyabek Development Company policy. We are committed to making merit-based hiring decisions. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship, marital status, height or weight, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.