Job at a glance
CNC Programmer - Mastercam Programming, Dallas, TX $90k+ Depending On Experience 1st shift (Relocation Assistance) Job Description An established precision manufacturing organization serving Aerospace & Defense customers is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Manufacturing Estimator to support complex machining operations. This role combines advanced Mastercam programming for multi-axis CNC milling centers with detailed estimating and quoting responsibilities for precision-machined components.
You will develop machining strategies, create production-ready programs and documentation, and accurately evaluate manufacturing costs while ensuring quality, efficiency, and profitability. Responsibilities Program complex precision CNC machined components using Mastercam for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining centers. Develop and validate efficient machining strategies and toolpaths for multi-axis applications, optimizing cycle time, quality, and tool life.
Select appropriate tooling, workholding, fixturing, and machining methods to maximize productivity and maintain tight tolerances (±0.0005" and tighter). Create complete setup sheets, tool lists, and manufacturing documentation to support consistent and repeatable production. Generate detailed and accurate estimates for labor, materials, tooling, and outside processing for new and existing parts.
Review engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T requirements, and customer specifications to determine manufacturing approach and costs. Improve and optimize existing CNC programs and machining processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput. Collaborate closely with engineering, quality, production, and customers to conduct manufacturability reviews and refine process strategies. Support prototype, development, and production manufacturing efforts across a range of aerospace and defense components.
Ensure compliance with aerospace manufacturing standards, AS9100 quality systems, FAI requirements, and documentation practices. Apply advanced machining knowledge to challenging materials, including titanium and Inconel, selecting appropriate tools and cutting parameters. Support quoting efforts for aerospace, defense, and other high-precision manufacturing opportunities by analyzing customer drawings and specifications.
Maintain strong focus on accuracy, process optimization, and continuous improvement in all programming and estimating activities. Essential Skills Minimum 5 years of Mastercam programming experience for complex, multi-axis CNC milling applications. Strong understanding of precision CNC milling processes and machining best practices. Advanced blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills for complex aerospace and defense components.
Proven ability to program tight-tolerance parts (±0.0005" and tighter) and maintain dimensional accuracy. Knowledge of aerospace metals and difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium and Inconel. Experience working within AS9100 quality systems, including FAI requirements and aerospace documentation. Understanding of material traceability and customer compliance requirements in aerospace manufacturing.
Strong mathematical and analytical skills to support accurate estimating and process optimization. Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, quality, production, and customers. Demonstrated project management abilities and capability to handle multiple projects and quotations simultaneously. Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
Aerospace and defense manufacturing experience strongly preferred. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience with Mastercam programming for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling centers. Experience in CMM programming and use of inspection tools in a precision machining environment. Familiarity with SolidWorks or similar CAD software for reviewing models and drawings. Hands-on machining experience and underst