Department: NIAR Advanced Machining and Prototyping Lab

Campus Location: Other Kansas Location

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically, 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday; occasional evenings and weekends may be required as needed. Work is performed at NIAR Facilities and on-site at Customer facilities.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Information

The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University is looking for a well experienced CNC Programmer. This position is located at the Advanced Machining and Prototyping (AMP) lab in Park City, KS.  Come join our fast-paced and fast-growing team! 

Job Summary

Responsible for creating work instructions and preparing programs to be read by controllers on computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines for the purpose of producing precision machined metal parts in conformance with customer design specifications.

Essential Functions

Prepares numerical control (NC) programs and related documentation for producing a precision part on the machines Creates consistent and reliable methods for optimum efficiency of material removal and part compliance Selects cutting tools that are suitable for particular part/machine tool; sets up all jobs with required fixtures and tooling Follows the progress of part(s) through inspection and other processing cycles for discrepancies and optimizations Collaborates with internal and external customers as required regarding delivery, blueprint questions, lean ideas, cost reductions, etc. Identifies improvement opportunities; adheres to schedule and budget constraints Provides support for machine operations; provides training on safe work habits as needed Perform other related duties as required

Job Duties

Develop and optimize CNC programs using CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, CATIA) and manual G-code/M-code entry to control mills, lathes, or multi-axis machines.
Analyze engineering blueprints, 3D CAD models, and GD&T specifications to determine appropriate machining sequences and tolerances
Select optimal cutting tools, calculate speeds and feeds, and design or specify fixtures and work holding solutions for production.
Monitor and refine existing programs to reduce cycle times, minimize tool wear, and decrease material scrap rates.
Perform machine dry runs to ensure new programs operate safely and produce parts that meet all quality benchmarks.
Provide shop-floor support to operators by diagnosing programming errors or mechanical issues and implementing corrective actions.
Create detailed setup sheets and tooling lists to ensure standardized and repeatable manufacturing processes.
Use of simulation software like Vericut is critical to verify toolpaths and prevent catastrophic machine crashes before the program ever reaches the shop floor.

Required Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent by hire date

Five (5) years of relevant work experience; Every 30 hours of related college coursework and/or technical training can be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to interpret drawing and GD&T requirement and incorporate requirement in CNC program.
Proficient programming in Mastercam and/or CATIA V5.
Ability to inspect work, materials, equipment, and/or supplies and identify any errors, needs, and/or determining factors.
Ability to work in a team focused environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Three (3) years of experience operating 5 Axis Large Gantry CNC machines.
Three (3) Years of 5 Axis CNC Programming.

Additional Position Information

The CNC Programmer is responsible for translating complex engineering drawings and 3D models into high-quality machine code to drive precision manufacturing. You will utilize CAM software to develop efficient toolpaths, select appropriate tooling, and design work holding solutions that optimize production speed and accuracy. Beyond code generation, you will be expected to perform program "prove-outs," troubleshoot technical issues on the shop floor, and collaborate closely with the production team to ensure all parts meet strict dimensional tolerances and quality standards.

Physical Requirements

Ability to use tools, equipment, and technology necessary to do the job. This includes dexterity in instrument manipulation. Ability to move, transport, and/or deliver items, supplies, or equipment. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to ascend and descend ladders and/or stairs. Ability to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially, both receptively and expressively.

Additional Physical Requirement

Ability to position self for inspection, construction or maintenance of equipment and/or buildings including confined, elevated and loud noise spaces.