Numerical Control Programming Engineer
Role Snapshot
CompanyConfidential Employer
LocationRed Oak, Texas, USA
IndustryDefense
Compensation$150,000 - $175,000 per year
Employment TypeFull Time/Direct Hire
Remote StatusNo Remote
Total Openings1
Work Experience15 - 30 years
Opportunity
This senior NC Programming Engineer role opens a door to a confidential aerospace leader where your work directly shapes critical military and commercial aircraft platforms. The team is small but vital, and the company is expanding its composite and metallic manufacturing capabilities, meaning your expertise will have immediate and visible impact.
The core of the position is developing and optimizing NC programs for advanced 5-axis machine centers, rapid ply cutters, and laser projection systems. You will drive process control from concept through production, ensuring parts meet stringent quality standards for programs like Global Hawk and Gulfstream. Your leadership will guide a multi-functional team and serve as the go-to technical authority for customers and suppliers.
We are looking for a hands-on expert who thrives on solving complex machining challenges and mentoring others. The ideal candidate brings deep CATIA skills, composites manufacturing knowledge, and a track record of applying Lean and Six Sigma tools to real-world production problems. You are self-motivated, communicate clearly, and are ready to step into a role where you will set the technical direction for the entire NC programming function.
This is not just another programming job; it is a rare opportunity to step into a leadership position at a company that builds some of the most advanced airframes in the world. With excellent pay, fully paid benefits, and relocation support, the company is committed to bringing top talent to Red Oak, Texas. If you meet the ITAR citizenship requirements and have the experience to lead from day one, we encourage you to apply today and take your career to the next level.
Non-Negotiables
- Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident per ITAR regulations, without requiring visa sponsorship
- A minimum of 15 years of related experience in aerospace or similar manufacturing is required
- Expertise in CATIA 5/6 and Computer Aided Design (CAD) is mandatory
- Deep knowledge of aerospace composites manufacturing is essential
- The candidate must possess effective communication skills to present complex technical information
- Proficiency in programming 3-axis and 5-axis machine centers for both composite and metallic fabrication is required
- A Bachelor of Science in a relevant engineering or technical field is expected, though significant experience may substitute
What's In It For You
- Enjoy comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance fully paid by the company
- The company provides basic life insurance at 1x salary, along with short-term and long-term disability coverage
- Receive immediate vesting in the 401(k) retirement plan, helping you build long-term financial security
- Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to continue your professional development and advance your skills
- Benefit from flexible time off, holidays, and a supportive work environment that values work-life balance
- Critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance offer additional peace of mind
- Health savings and flexible spending accounts let you manage healthcare costs with pre-tax dollars
Responsibilities
- Program rapid ply cutter (PRC) equipment to precisely cut composite material for bonding operations
- Develop laser projection programs to define manufacturing build sequences and ply component locations
- Program 3-axis and 5-axis automatic tape laying equipment and trim and drill machine cells for composite fabrication
- Program 3-axis and 5-axis machine centers used in metallic part fabrication, including production and repair components
- Lead process development and manage team personnel related to NC programming, process control, and manufacturing support
- Serve as the primary technical liaison for customer and supplier reviews, ensuring requirements are met
- Apply Lean/Six Sigma and problem-solving techniques like A3, 8D, and Pareto analysis to drive process yield improvements
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Siemens NX in addition to CATIA 5/6 is preferred
- Familiarity with Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) tools is a plus
- Experience in planning and manufacturing execution systems within aerospace fields is beneficial
- Knowledge of Lean/Six Sigma principles and their application to process control is highly regarded
- Experience with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) at an expert level adds value
- A demonstrated ability to lead multi-functional teams and drive change from concept through production is desirable
- Formal education in engineering is preferred, though substantial equivalent experience is acceptable
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