Title: CNC Programmer
Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Schedule: 1st Shift | Monday–Friday, 7:00am–3:30pm (occasional overtime as needed)
Compensation: ~$100,000 per year
Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled CNC Programmer to support advanced machining operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs across multiple machining platforms including mills, lathes, and 5-axis equipment.
The position plays a key role in bridging engineering design intent with shop floor execution, ensuring high-quality part production, efficient machining processes, and continuous improvement of manufacturing methods. This individual will also support tooling strategy, process optimization, training, and shop floor problem-solving to improve productivity, quality, and safety.
Key Responsibilities
• Develop CNC programs (G-code) for milling, turning, and 5-axis machining operations
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications to create accurate machine instructions
• Select cutting tools and optimize machining strategies for efficiency, quality, and tool life
• Support machine setup, fixture setup, and ensure proper first-run part validation
• Troubleshoot CNC program issues, machining errors, and production failures on the shop floor
• Verify machined parts meet dimensional and GD&T specifications and support operators with adjustments
• Create and maintain setup sheets, programming documentation, and standardized work instructions
• Develop job aids, rework procedures, and process documentation to support production consistency
• Support training initiatives and assist in workforce skill development
• Manage and support complex machining and manufacturing projects
• Process and implement engineering changes within production systems
• Utilize ERP systems (LN/IPREP) for production tracking and documentation
• Support and validate quality gate audits and inspection requirements
• Determine processing requirements for fixtures, tooling, and methods to meet production schedules
• Drive process improvements to reduce cost and eliminate non-value-added activities
• Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S and continuous improvement programs
• Monitor shop floor safety, eliminate unsafe practices, and maintain a clean work environment
• Identify workforce training needs and support skill development programs
• Lead root cause analysis and continuous improvement efforts for machining issues
Qualifications
• 4-year technical degree or equivalent manufacturing/CNC programming experience
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing or CNC programming environment
• Strong knowledge of CNC programming principles and CAD/CAM software (Siemens NX, Mastercam, SolidWorks)
• Experience with mills, lathes, and 5-axis CNC machines
• Strong understanding of GD&T and ability to interpret complex engineering drawings
• Experience with PLM systems such as Teamcenter and NX preferred
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in a production environment
• High attention to detail and ability to maintain tight tolerances
• Strong computer skills including data entry and manufacturing systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Sterling Engineering has been a trusted partner for engineering, project management, and staffing solutions for over five decades. We provide exceptional engineering/technical recruitment and engineering project services to clients nationwide:
Sterling offers a unique combination of engineering solutions and Best of Staffing level service to help our clients and talent achieve their goals.