Citizen Swiss Lathe CAM Programmer & Process Technician

Join a confidential, precision-focused healthcare manufacturer via Arena Direct Hire. In this role, you’ll blend Swiss-turn programming with hands-on process improvement to move parts from prototype to reliable production.

Role overview

• Develop, edit, and validate CNC Swiss programs and detailed tooling diagrams for new and existing parts.
• Partner with R&D and production teams to transition prototypes into stable, scalable processes.
• Interpret blueprints and 3D models; apply GD&T; select tools; define sequences; and verify results at the machine.
• Optimize for consistency, quality, cycle time, tool life, and reduced secondary operations.
• Support Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machine set-ups, changeovers, and on-the-floor troubleshooting.
• Document methods, train set-up crews, and audit processes for continuous improvement and lean manufacturing.
• Use SolidWorks (or similar CAD) and programming utilities to ensure manufacturability and repeatability.
• Maintain a safe, organized work environment and uphold process discipline.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on CNC machining with introductory CNC programming experience.
• Experience supporting CNC programs for prototypes and/or production runs.
• Ability to read drawings, sketches, models, and specifications.
• Working knowledge of G Code and M Code.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar CAD.
• GD&T knowledge.
• Tooling installation and changes, part set-ups, and program edits.
• Experience with Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines.
• Proven process optimization, troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong organization, documentation, and communication skills; able to manage multiple priorities.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred

• cGMP and/or ISO environment experience.
• Relevant college or certificate coursework.
• Training experience for machinists or set-up crews.
• Background in NPD, prototyping, or manufacturing transfer.
• Demonstrated improvements in cycle time, tool life, process control, quality, or cost.
• Exposure to medical device, healthcare manufacturing, aerospace, or other regulated precision manufacturing.

Software and tools

• SolidWorks or similar CAD software
• CNC programming tools
• G Code and M Code
• GD&T
• Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines
• Microsoft Office (helpful)

What you’ll gain

• Established, stable manufacturer within healthcare manufacturing.
• Precision environment emphasizing quality, process control, and continuous improvement.
• Exposure to R&D, prototyping, and production scale-up.
• Hands-on growth in CNC programming, tooling diagrams, set-ups, and machining methods.
• Deeper experience on Citizen CNC Swiss Screw Machines.
• Cross-functional impact with manufacturing leadership, machinists, set-up crews, R&D, and quality.
• Continuous improvement focus driving efficiency, cycle time, tool life, and reduced variability.
• Balanced early shift and on-site collaboration.
• Competitive compensation, overtime eligibility, benefits, 401(k), and bonus opportunity.

Schedule and location

• Location: North County San Diego
• Work Arrangement: In Office
• Schedule: 6:00am to 2:30pm
• Reports to: Machine Shop Manager

Compensation and benefits

• Base compensation range: $100,000 to $125,000
• This role is paid hourly and is eligible for overtime.
• Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, voluntary benefits, disability insurance, 401(k), financial planning resources, paid time off, and bonus opportunity. Full details will be discussed during the interview process.

Interview process

• Round 1: Onsite interview and facility tour
• Offer decision expected to move quickly for the right candidate.

Target proficiencies

• GD&T
• CNC Tooling
• CNC Programming
• CAD Software
• G-Code
• M-Code
• Machine Setups for Production Runs
• Manual Machining Skills
• Citizen CNC Swiss Screw
• CNC machine programs
• Solidworks
• SWISS
• SWISS Screw Machining
• tooling diagrams

Equipment exposure

• CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
• CNC Swiss Lathe
• CNC Lathe (5+ axis)

Legal and compliance

Employment Type: Non-exempt, paid hourly with overtime

Pre-Employment Requirements

• E-Verify
• Background check
• Basic drug test

Equal Opportunity Statement

Arena Staffing and our client are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. We comply with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including California requirements related to pay scale disclosures, paid sick leave, and required reporting and recordkeeping. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.