CNC Programmer - Lathe / VTL / Mills (Aerospace Manufacturing)

Location: Meriden, CT

Compensation: Competitive Salary + Bonus + Comprehensive Benefits

We are hiring a CNC Programmer with strong Lathe, VTL, and Milling experience to support high-precision aerospace manufacturing in Meriden, Connecticut—one of the region’s established centers for advanced machining and aerospace production.

This is a hands-on, shop-floor driven role where you will not only program, but also help develop manufacturing methods, fixtures, and processes from concept through production release.

We are seeking an experienced 5-Axis CNC Programmer to support the production of complex aerospace components. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, optimizing, and validating CNC programs for precision-machined parts using Mastercam and/or Siemens NX CAM. This role requires extensive knowledge of aerospace machining practices, advanced multi-axis programming techniques, and a strong understanding of quality and process control requirements within a high-precision manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Create, optimize, and maintain CNC programs for 5-axis machining centers using Mastercam and/or Siemens NX CAM.

• Interpret aerospace engineering drawings, 3D CAD models, specifications, and GD&T requirements.

• Develop efficient machining strategies for complex aerospace components made from aluminum, titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, and other aerospace-grade materials.

• Generate setup sheets, tooling documentation, and work instructions for production personnel.

• Support machine setup, program prove-outs, and first article inspections.

• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to ensure parts meet customer and regulatory requirements.

• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and programming issues to improve productivity and reduce scrap.

• Perform machining simulations and collision checks prior to production release.

• Optimize cycle times, tool life, and machine utilization while maintaining quality standards.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on process capability, throughput, and cost reduction.

• Ensure compliance with AS9100, customer specifications, and company quality procedures.

• Maintain revision-controlled program files and manufacturing documentation.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; technical degree or CNC programming certification preferred.

• 5 years of CNC programming experience, including 3+ years programming 5-axis machining centers.

• Demonstrated experience programming aerospace components.

• Advanced proficiency with Mastercam and/or Siemens NX CAM.

• Strong knowledge of G-code, M-code, and CNC machine controls.

• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T.

• Experience machining tight-tolerance aerospace components.

• Knowledge of cutting tools, fixture design concepts, and advanced machining strategies.

• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience machining structural aerospace components, flight-critical hardware, or precision assemblies.

• Experience with high-speed machining and multi-axis toolpath optimization.

• Knowledge of AS9100 quality systems and aerospace manufacturing standards.

• Experience with CAD software and fixture design.

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced 5-axis CNC programming

• Aerospace machining expertise

• Mastercam and / or Siemens NX CAM proficiency

• GD&T interpretation

• Process development and optimization

• Tooling and fixture planning

• Quality-focused decision making

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

• Continuous improvement mindset

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

• Ability to safely operate and inspect machining equipment.

Apply Today

If you're a CNC Programmer who thrives in a hands-on aerospace environment and enjoys building processes—not just running them—we want to hear from you.