Helfrich Brothers is hiring a CNC Programmer/Operator to program, set up, and run large-format milling work in our Lawrence machine shop. This is a hands-on role: you write your own Mastercam programs, read and edit G-code at the control, and take jobs from print to finished part. The strongest candidates already have large-format machining and fixturing experience-ideally on pressure vessels or similar heavy components. This is a high mix low volume shop, mostly carbon materials with some stainless and Inconel mixed in.
Primary Equipment
- Mighty Viper vertical milling machine
- Lucas horizontal milling machine
- Mighty Viper VTL with live tooling
Responsibilities
- Program, set up, operate, and prove out jobs on the machines above, including first articles
- Write and optimize Mastercam programs; read, edit, and prove G-code at the Fanuc control
- Plan setups and fixture large, heavy parts
- Select tooling, speeds, feeds, and work offsets to hold print tolerances
- Interpret engineering drawings, including GD&T, and inspect your own work
- Rig and position workpieces with overhead cranes
- Troubleshoot programs, tooling, and fixtures; recommend process improvements
- Perform routine machine care and keep a safe, organized work area
- Work with engineering, quality, and project managers on technical questions
Qualifications
Required
- Horizontal and vertical CNC milling experience
- Mastercam programming experience
- Ability to read and understand G-code
- Fanuc CNC control experience
- Large-format part fixturing experience
- Overhead crane experience
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to lift 50 pounds
Preferred
- Large-format machining and fixturing for pressure vessels or similar heavy components
- Vocational training or a completed apprenticeship
- Experience proving out new programs and editing at the control
- Strong shop math and knowledge of metal properties and machining practices
- VTL and lathe experience
Location: Lawrence, Massachusetts
Pay: Overtime available, Pay range $30-$45 Per hour DOE.