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Woodward, Inc

CNC Programmer

Posted 6 Days Ago
Be an Early Applicant
In-Office
Campus, IL
27-50 Hourly
Entry level
In-Office
Campus, IL
27-50 Hourly
Entry level
Program and refine G-code for multi-axis CNC milling and turning machines using engineering drawings and CAD data. Support tooling, fixtures, offsets, and machine setup; optimize toolpaths, cycle times, and tool life; troubleshoot programming and machining issues; analyze CAD models for manufacturability; and maintain CNC program libraries, setup sheets, and process documentation. The role works collaboratively with machinists, engineers, and quality teams in a high-mix, low-volume machine shop.
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Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.

We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.

Woodward supports our members’ wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. 


  • Estimated hourly base pay: Level 1: $27.00 - $42.00 hourly. Level 2: $31.25 – $50.00 hourly. Plus, overtime.

All Levels are eligible for the benefits below:

  • Long-term incentive compensation in the form of equity
  • All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) match (4.5%)
  • Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)
  • Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members  
  • 12 paid holidays
  • Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
  • Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave. 
  • Paid parental leave
  • Adoption Assistance  
  • Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits
  • Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life 
  • Member referral bonus 
  • Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending 
  • Voluntary benefits, including:  
    • Home / Auto Insurance discounts 
    • Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave 

Are you ready to make your mark?

If you’re a skilled CNC Programmer, we have an exciting opportunity for you! In this role, you’ll join a large, diverse machine shop with high-mix, low-volume production rates, focusing on programming multi-axis CNC machines for operators to use and producing precision components.

This is not a CNC Machinist role. We are seeking experienced professionals whose primary responsibility is programming CNC machines that others will operate.


** This is a 1st shift position, Monday to Friday.


What you will be doing:

  • Develop CNC Programs: Creates and refines CNC code for milling and turning operations based on engineering drawings and CAD data.
  • Support Machine Setup: Collaborates with operators to configure tooling, fixtures and work holding devices for efficient production runs.
  • Optimize Machining Processes: Analyzes cycle time and tool life metrics to recommend program adjustments and process improvements.
  • Troubleshoot Programming Issues: Diagnoses code errors and machining disruptions, applying corrective edits to programs and machine parameters.
  • Maintain Documentation: Updates CNC program libraries and process records, ensuring compliance with version control standards.

What we are looking for:

Level 1:

  • G code Programming: Expert level creation and refinement of CNC programs for milling and turning operations.
  • CAM Software Proficiency: Skilled in generating and editing toolpaths using Mastercam, Siemens NX, or equivalent.
  • CNC Machine Setup: Proficient in selecting tooling, calibrating offsets, and establishing work holding for precision runs.
  • GD&T Interpretation: Accurate reading and application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing from technical drawings.
  • Toolpath Optimization: Designing efficient, collision free tool paths to reduce cycle times and enhance surface finishes.
  • Machining Troubleshooting: Diagnosing programming errors, tool wear, and machine faults to restore optimal performance.
  • Process Documentation: Developing detailed setup sheets, operation protocols, and parameter logs for consistent production.
  • CAD Model Analysis: Examining 3D designs for manufacturability issues, clearances, and necessary modifications.
  • Material Property Knowledge: Applying material specific cutting parameters based on machinability and thermal properties.
  • Cross Functional Communication: Explaining complex technical dependencies and coordinating with engineering and operations teams.

 

Level 2

  • G-Code Programming: Expert level creation and refinement of CNC programs for milling and turning operations.
  • CAM Software Proficiency: Skilled in generating and editing toolpaths using Esprit Legacy Series 20/Edge, Mastercam, Siemens NX, or equivalent.
  • CNC Machine Setup: Proficient in selecting tooling, calibrating offsets, and establishing work holding for precision runs.
  • GD&T Interpretation: Accurate reading and application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing from technical drawings.
  • Toolpath Optimization: Designing efficient, collision free tool paths to reduce cycle times and enhance surface finishes.
  • Machining Troubleshooting: Diagnosing programming errors, tool wear, and machine faults to restore optimal performance.
  • Process Documentation: Developing detailed setup sheets, operation protocols, and parameter logs for consistent production.
  • CAD Model Analysis: Examining 3D designs for manufacturability issues, clearances, and necessary modifications.
  • Material Property Knowledge: Applying material specific cutting parameters based on machinability and thermal properties.
  • Cross Functional Communication: Explaining complex technical dependencies and coordinating with engineering and operations teams.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with machinists, engineers, and quality teams.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with advanced verification tools and simulation software.
  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

Physical & Work Environment

  • Ability to work in a shop environment with exposure to machining equipment.
  • Occasional lifting of tooling and components up to 50 lbs.

Application window is anticipated to close 20 days from original posting date.


This information is provided in compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and is the company’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation range and benefits offered for this position. The compensation offered to the successful applicant may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education, location, and other job-related reasons.


This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).   All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).


Woodward is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local laws.


Woodward, Inc Niles, Illinois, USA Office

6300 W Howard St, Niles, United States, 60714

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