CNC Programming Specialist – Sheet Metal Operations

Title: CNC Programming Specialist – Sheet Metal Operations
Location: Newport News, VA
Shift: First Shift (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM)
Schedule: Monday – Friday, with overtime availability
Pay: $25 – $40/hour (higher compensation based on skills, experience, and background)

Company Overview

We are a long-established precision sheet metal fabrication operation with over four decades of industry experience. Operating from a modern, 60,000‑square‑foot manufacturing facility, the organization produces high-quality sheet metal components and complex enclosures for a broad range of applications. The environment is fast-paced, quality-driven, and focused on delivering accurate, on-time results.

Position Summary

The CNC Programming Specialist supports manufacturing operations by creating, maintaining, and optimizing CNC programs and associated production documentation for sheet metal components. This role involves translating engineering data into efficient machine programs, supporting production teams with accurate setup information, and continuously improving programming efficiency and cycle times using CAD/CAM tools.

The position works closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to ensure designs are manufactured accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with quality standards.

Primary Responsibilities:
• Analyze work orders, engineering prints, orthographic drawings, and GD&T to plan machining and fabrication operations

• Generate, edit, and maintain CNC programs (G‑code) using CAM software

• Create flat patterns and support reverse engineering of existing components when required

• Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure design intent aligns with manufacturing capabilities

• Apply expertise in material selection, bend allowances and deductions, tooling strategies, and cost-effective sheet metal processing

• Select appropriate machines, tooling, and manufacturing methods for each job

• Develop detailed setup documentation, work instructions, and assembly guidelines for production use

• Partner with quality teams to ensure adherence to ISO 9001 requirements and customer specifications

• Support ongoing improvements in programming efficiency, accuracy, and cycle time reduction

Required Qualifications:
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on CNC programming experience

• Strong proficiency in creating and modifying G‑code

• Experience using CAM software such as SolidWorks, TekSoft, or similar platforms

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints

• Solid mathematical skills, including geometry and trigonometry

• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills

• Knowledge of tooling and tool management practices

• High attention to detail and accuracy

Preferred Experience:
• Background in sheet metal fabrication or manufacturing

• Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems

• Exposure to process improvement or continuous improvement initiatives

• Experience working with inventory or supply chain coordination