Machinist Programmer in Central Point, Oregon at Erickson Incorporated

Position Purpose

We are seeking a highly experienced and self-driven Senior Machinist Programmer with extensive 5-axis CNC programming expertise to support and enhance our advanced machining operations. This role is critical for driving high-precision manufacturing, supporting production efficiency, and mentoring junior machinists and programmers. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience with 5-axis programming in aerospace or similarly demanding industries.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, drawings, specifications, or sample parts to determine dimensions and tolerances of the finished work piece, sequence of operations, and setup requirements.
• Develop and document new setups as required.
• Demonstrate competence in the use of CNC and can perform basic and complex machine operations and repairs of aviation parts.
• Manufacture or fabricate parts or tooling as required.
• Assist in training junior machinists.
• Program, set up, and operate complex 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines (mills and lathes) using CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Siemens NX, or similar).
• Translate blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings into optimized machining strategies.
• Perform comprehensive setup documentation and fixture design as needed.
• Optimize programs for efficiency, quality, and repeatability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining and programming issues in a timely and professional manner.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to ensure successful part execution.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to tooling, programming methods, and workflow.
• Act as a subject matter expert and mentor for junior machinists and programmers.
• Maintain compliance with safety procedures, internal quality standards, and customer specifications.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalency, Valid Driver’s license
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in CNC machining and 5-axis programming.
• Proficient in CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, NX, GibbsCAM, or equivalent).
• Expert knowledge of G-code and post-processing for 5-axis machining centers.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and advanced blueprint reading.
• Ability to work independently from complex drawings or CAD models.
• Experience in machining aerospace components or tight-tolerance parts.
• Demonstrated ability to diagnose and correct complex machining issues.
• Experience working in a lean or continuous improvement environment is preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and teamwork mentality.
• Ability to use and set up diverse types of manual machines.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Must have reading, speaking, writing, and understanding skills in the English language.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in CNC machining or manufacturing technology.
• Familiarity with DAX or similar ERP systems.
• Background in tool path simulation and verification software (e.g., Vericut).