Job Description

Job Location: St. Joseph, MO 64507,

Position Type: Full Time,

Job Shift: Day, SUMMARY

The CNC Programmer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and optimizing CNC programs to support Van-Am Tool & Engineering’s machining operations. This position translates engineering blueprints and 3D CAD designs into precise machine instructions, selects appropriate tooling, validates programs through simulation and prove-out, and partners with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve efficiency, maintain specification compliance, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Review 3D CAD models and engineering drawings to develop CNC programs using CAD/CAM software
• Write, modify, and optimize CNC programs for lathes, mills, grinders, and other machining equipment
• Determine machining sequences, cutting paths, tooling requirements, speeds, feeds, tolerances, and material requirements for each job
• Conduct program simulations and machine prove-outs to validate CNC programs and make required adjustments
• Prepare setup sheets, tooling lists, workholding documentation, and production instructions to support efficient manufacturing
• Support Sales and Engineering with new part quotations by estimating raw material requirements, machining cycle times, tooling needs, and fixturing packages
• Collaborate with engineers, machinists, and quality personnel to resolve programming, setup, and production issues
• Continuously improve setup times, tooling utilization, machining efficiency, and overall process performance
• Maintain CNC programs, program libraries, setup documentation, and revision-controlled records
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety requirements, customer specifications, and applicable Quality Management System requirements
• Provide training and technical support to machinists and other staff on CNC programming practices

Qualifications: KNOWLEDGE

• Strong knowledge of CNC programming, machining principles, tooling selection, cutting paths, and production setup requirements
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software and platforms including SolidWorks, CAMWorks, Creo, ProE, CATIA, and PTC Creo; SolidWorks and CAMWorks preferred
• Working knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, algebra, trigonometry, tolerances, and material requirements
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality standards preferred
• Experience with advanced CAM systems, multi-axis machining, aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments preferred

COMPETENCIES

• Strong technical problem-solving and analytical thinking
• High attention to detail in programming, documentation, calculations, and quality compliance
• Clear and professional communication with engineering, production, quality, and sales teams
• Ability to collaborate across departments to resolve programming and production challenges
• Commitment to continuous improvement, safety, quality, and machining efficiency
• Ability to manage shifting priorities, strict deadlines, and fast-paced manufacturing demands

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• Associate’s degree in CNC Programming, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required; equivalent work experience may be considered
• Minimum of three years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing or machining environment required
• Experience working with aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing quality standards preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field preferred
• No certifications required

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer
• Occasional walking, standing, and moving between engineering, inspection, and production areas
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds as needed
• Visual acuity required for reading blueprints, operating computer software, reviewing machining documentation, and inspecting components
• Work is primarily performed in an office setting with regular visits to the manufacturing floor
• Exposure to machining environments, including noise, vibration, moving equipment, and production activity
• Personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, gloves, and hearing protection may be required in production areas

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• If a security clearance is required:
• Candidate must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearance requirements
• Successful candidates must be able to obtain required Program Access approval, if applicable