Manufacturing Engineer - CNC in Lowell, Michigan at Platinum Engineering Inc

The CNC Manufacturing Engineer designs complex multi-axis workholding fixtures and develops advanced CAM programs for aerospace and defense manufacturing. This role requires expertise in 3, 4, and 5-axis fixture design, proficiency in Fusion 360 and GibbsCAM programming, and knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes and compliance requirements. The position supports our company's rapid growth while maintaining precision standards for mission-critical components.

Fixture Design & Development

• Design 3, 4, and 5-axis workholding fixtures for aerospace and defense components ensuring proper orientation, accessibility, and machining stability
• Create detailed fixture drawings and documentation complying with AS9100 and military specifications
• Optimize part geometry for manufacturability and fixturing while maintaining airworthiness standards
• Lead fixture validation through simulation and prototype testing
• Establish fixture design standards and best practices as we scale operations

CAM Programming & Optimization

• Develop CNC programs using Fusion 360 and GibbsCAM for multi-axis machining of titanium, Inconel, aluminum alloys, and exotic superalloys
• Generate optimized toolpaths for 3, 4, and 5-axis simultaneous machining while meeting stringent aerospace tolerances
• Select cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and machining strategies based on material properties and aerospace best practices
• Create and maintain post-processors ensuring accurate G-code output and compliance with military standards
• Perform toolpath simulation and verification to prevent collisions, gouging, or programming errors

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with AS9100, ITAR, DFARS, and aerospace regulations
• Implement material traceability and chain of custody requirements for defense contracts
• Develop inspection procedures meeting aerospace GD&T requirements
• Support first article inspection processes and maintain documentation for customer approval
• Interface with customer quality representatives during surveillance activities

Process Development & Manufacturing Leadership

• Analyze part prints to determine optimal machining sequences and setup requirements
• Establish machining parameters achieving required surface finish, tolerances, and material properties
• Develop efficient processes minimizing material waste for high-value aerospace materials
• Lead troubleshooting for fixture performance, program execution, and part quality issues
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce lead times and increase throughput

Technical Documentation & Business Support

• Create setup sheets, work instructions, and operator guidelines complying with ITAR requirements
• Maintain records of fixture designs and program revisions with proper version control
• Provide technical training to operators on fixture usage and program execution
• Support proposal development and cost estimation for new opportunities
• Participate in customer meetings and capability demonstrations

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES)

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering, related technical field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 5 years CNC programming and manufacturing engineering experience, preferably aerospace/defense
• Proficiency in Fusion 360 and GibbsCAM for multi-axis programming
• Experience with 3, 4, and 5-axis CNC machining, Multi-Axis bar fed Lathe, and workholding fixture design
• Knowledge of aerospace materials (titanium, Inconel, aluminum alloys, superalloys)
• Understanding of AS9100, ITAR, DFARS compliance requirements and GD&T
• CAD software proficiency (SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar)
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects
• U.S. citizenship required due to ITAR regulations