CNC Programmer

CNC PROGRAMMER (PLTX):

Bowhead seeks an CNC Programmer to join our Manufacturing and Products Group team in Plano, TX. This role supports production operations by programming, setting up, and operating CNC and automated machinery used in the fabrication of aluminum and steel components with tight tolerances.

• Provide programming support for machining parts, tools, or sheet metal on numerically controlled machine tools by writing programs of machine.
• Determine dimension and configuration of cuts, selection of cutting tools, machine speeds, and feed rates by analyzing drawings, sketches, and design data of part.
• Select proper cutting tools for each part, taking into consideration speeds, types of cutters, and feeds.
• Generate tooling concepts to securely and accurately hold work pieces during machining.
• Specify machinery and tooling required to manufacture a wide variety of parts in small to large quantities.
• Design and implement set‑up sheets for fabrication processes to streamline production processes, reduce setup times, and ensure consistency across shifts.
• Oversee selection, maintenance, and inventory of cutting tools, implementing tool management strategies to optimize tool life, reduce downtime, and ensure cost‑effective operations.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including quality, manufacturing planning and production, to drive continuous improvement initiatives and resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Recommend process improvements that will improve quality and reduce overall costs.
• Interface with processing suppliers to effectively transfer information required to execute subcontracted work.
• Stay informed on new manufacturing technologies, investigate and recommend new processing technologies that improve efficiency and quality.
• Support Lean initiatives and create a culture of continuous improvement.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years with hands‑on operation and programming of 3‑axis and/or 5‑axis CNC equipment using CAM software, or an associate’s degree and minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience.
• Strong computer knowledge and familiarity with Microsoft Office, ERP systems (CostPoint) and CAD/modeling software such as Mastercam or equivalent.
• Experience providing engineering support in a manufacturing environment, specifically with high‑precision CNC lathes, milling machines, and/or surface grinders.
• Strong ability to generate, read and interpret fabrication drawings, process and instrumentation diagrams and schematics, with a strong understanding of GD&T principles.
• Proven in‑depth knowledge of fundamental mechanical engineering concepts and how to apply them to fabrication and manufacturing processes.
• Able to create CNC programs for lathe and milling processes.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining a positive attitude and managing competing demands and tight deadlines.
• Ability to communicate and work with all levels of the organization.
• Strong judgment and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.

• Experience in Mastercam & Solid Works.

• Must be able to lift up to 10–15 pounds.
• Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time.
• Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically.

There are currently no security clearance requirements for this position; however, candidates must be able to successfully pass a background check. Due to the location of this work, US citizenship is required. Bowhead reserves the right to change this requirement if necessitated by business needs or contractual obligations.

Applicants may be subject to a pre‑employment drug & alcohol screening and/or random drug screen, and must follow UIC’s Non‑DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing Program requirements. If the position requires, an applicant must pass a pre‑employment criminal background history check. All post‑secondary education listed on the applicant’s resume/application may be subject to verification.

Where driving may be required or where a rental car must be obtained for business travel purposes, applicants must have a…