SUMMARY
The Project Programmer - Team Lead is highly skilled and supports our manufacturing operations by driving CNC programming, process improvements, troubleshooting, and tooling development. This role requires extensive experience with various manufacturing equipment and processes, as well as the ability to lead team members. High proficiency in CAD/CAM software, CNC programming, and have a strong background in complex work holdings, jigs, and fixtures. The Project Programmer - Team Lead will play a crucial role in bringing in new equipment and ensuring smooth product launches. This role requires a strong understanding of machining processes and the ability to create complete programs for complex machines. This role will disseminate work direction to other Project Programmers.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Team Lead:
  • Provide project oversight for other Project Programmers.
  • Assign tasks and responsibilities to team members.
  • Assist with hands-on projects if needed.
  • Act as an intermediary with the Engineering Manager on work projects, if needed.
  • Provide training or support to new and existing workers.
• CNC Programming:
  • Advanced knowledge of CNC programming techniques for complex part geometries.
  • Determine appropriate tools, speeds, feeds, and fixtures to ensure efficiency and quality.
  • Partner with plant leaders and employees to ensure programs meet customer specifications and quality standards are met.
  • Create programs that scan and interface with SAP to program themselves and reduce dual data entry.
• Experience with CNC Equipment:
  • Knowledge and experience setting up CNC machines, load tooling, fixtures, and workpieces, and configure machine parameters according to program requirements.
  • Conduct machine trials and make necessary adjustments to ensure proper tool performance and adherence to quality standards.
  • Design and implement automation solutions (e.g., PLCs, robotics) to streamline machining processes.
  • Integrate CNC machines with robots, conveyors, and automated inspection tools.
  • Perform quality checks and inspections on machined parts to verify compliance with design specifications and quality standards.
  • Make real-time adjustments to CNC programs based on inspection results to achieve the desired part quality.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Collaborate with engineers, plant leadership, machinists, and production teams to optimize manufacturing processes and address any challenges in programming or machining.
  • Communicate effectively within the team and provide guidance and expertise to less experienced programmers and machinists.
• Documentation and Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate documentation of CNC programs, tooling information, setup procedures, and production reports.
  • Generate reports and provide insights into machining performance, efficiency improvements, and suggestions for process enhancements.
• Process Engineering & Continuous Improvement:
  • Utilize CAD/CAM software features to create toolpaths that optimize machining efficiency, minimize production time, and reduce material waste.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex manufacturing issues.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance machining efficiency, reduce lead times, and minimize production costs.
  • Implement innovative approaches to drive continuous improvement in programming techniques and CNC processes.
• Inspection/Quality:
  • Program the CMM using PCDMIS or other software.
  • Excellent knowledge and skill to use inspection tools such as micrometers, calipers, etc.
  • Train others on inspection methods and use of tools.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Partner to Bring New Equipment
  • Participate in the equipment selection process to determine the style of tooling and machining processes for selected components.

• • Obtain quotes and purchase orders for new tools, equipment, and materials.

• • Collaborate with staff and machine vendors to decide on the style of work holding for the machines.
  • Work with the area leaders to create programs that are easy to use and maintain quality processes.
  • Stay abreast of new technology and make recommendations to leadership.
  • Develop custom programs for machine preparation, including mounting fixtures, milling surfaces flat, drilling, and tapping holes.
  • Identify the optimal location for tool-setters and calibration rings.
  • Modify POST settings in Cam software.
• Cost Reduction Initiatives
  • Collaborate with vendors to test new tooling for increased tool life, throughput, or cost reduction.
  • Incorporate manual processes into programs, such as deburring, probing, or post-processing.
  • Assist in completing STAR cards that require program edits, tool changes, or work holding modifications.
  • Share best practices across divisions (i.e. tooling, machining approaches, setup reduction initiatives, etc.)
• Soft Skill Requirements
  • Act as a key advisor to plant floor personnel on complex machine and process challenges.
  • Provide training for area staff after the arrival of new equipment.
  • Help identify and mentor and train newer up and coming programmers on best practices, processes, and project work completion.
  • Must be a team player and interact with leaders and coworkers to achieve the best results for the organization.
  • Must be a positive influence for all employees; encourage engagement; demonstrate humility during tough situations; and maintain flexibility.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency in CNC programming, CAD/CAM software, toolpath optimization, machine setup, and quality control processes – Must have the ability to create complete programs and create setup sheets for complex machines.
• 7+ years, with education, programming with CAD/CAM systems.
• 5+ years’ experience working on Lathes, Mills, and Grinders.
• 1+ year macro programming experience.
• Is fluent in SW, VBA, and SAP
• A futurist thinking who can introduce AI, IoT, Visual Factory,
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot programming and machining issues effectively.
• Strong understanding of stamping, ammo, bending, punching, and other manufacturing processes.
• Ensure adherence to ISO standards, GD&T principles, and quality inspection processes.
• General use of Microsoft Office suite to create documents, reports, or setup sheets.
• Keen attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and precision of machined parts.
• Works closely with application engineers, designers, machinists, and engineers.
• Exempt role with a focus on strategic problem-solving and operational efficiency.
• Plays a key advisory role in plant floor operations, ensuring seamless production support.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with quick turnaround demands.
• Background as a journeyman toolmaker or similar hands-on manufacturing role is preferred.
• Commitment to safety protocols and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential safety hazards.

EDUCATION

• Diploma or AAS degree in machine trades, or 10 years of experience programming a variety of equipment.

ATTRIBUTES

• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing work priorities and environments, demonstrating flexibility and willingness to take on different tasks as directed by the hiring manager.
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills, enabling clear and concise communication with team members and supervisors.
• Safety Consciousness: Commitment to adhering to safety protocols and procedures, ensuring a safe working environment for oneself and others.

• Desire for Learning & Continuous Improvement: Eagerness to learn and develop new skills, with a willingness to participate in training programs and pursue continuous improvement opportunities within the role. Actively seek opportunities to improve efficiency and productivity within assigned tasks, suggesting ideas for process enhancements or workflow optimization.
• Reliability: Dependability in fulfilling assigned tasks and responsibilities consistently, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the team.
• Positive Attitude: A constructive and optimistic approach to challenges and tasks, fostering a supportive and encouraging work environment.
• Team Player: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, demonstrating respect, empathy, and cooperation in achieving shared goals.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Capacity to approach issues or obstacles with creativity and resourcefulness, seeking practical solutions to improve processes and outcomes.
• Professionalism: Conducting oneself with professionalism and integrity, adhering to ethical standards and company policies in all interactions and activities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Lifting, Carrying, Pushing, and Pulling

• Frequently able to lift or move up to 35lbs
• Occasionally able to lift or move up to 50lbs
• Continuously stand and walk throughout the workday

• Environmental Exposure

• Continuous exposure to indoor manufacturing environment
• Occasional exposure to chemicals and fumes
• Continuous exposure to moderate noise

• Body Movements

• Frequently reach with hands and arms; use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel material
• Continuous use of hands/fingers to grasp, pinch, pull, feel, or handle and manipulate parts and tools
• Frequent repetitive motions

• Vision Abilities

• Continuous requirement of specific vision abilities including close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to focus.

• Safety Measures

• Continuously wear eye protection (Industry standard safety equipment is provided by the Company, and specific notice is posted in areas where safety equipment is required).
• These physical demands and work environment conditions are essential for the successful execution of the job duties. The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and accessible workplace.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Inside; Office and some manufacturing floor.

Salary: $127k - $141 DOQ

MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT, AND WORK AIDS 
Working knowledge of manufacturing machines and inspection equipment.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Wilson Tool is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.

 

www.wilsontool.com/careers