IMG Livermore, an Ichor Company, is seeking a highly skilled CNC Programmer - Prototype Technician to support complex, high-precision manufacturing for aerospace, defense, semiconductor, and advanced technology applications. This role is focused on developing optimized machining strategies, creating robust CNC programs, improving process efficiency, and supporting production of mission-critical hardware across multi-axis CNC platforms.
This is a technical, hands-on role for an experienced manufacturing professional who thrives in a fast-paced, high-mix, low-volume environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Review customer models, engineering drawings, and technical specifications to develop machining strategies and CNC programs.
- Develop and optimize CNC programs for:
- 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining
- Vertical and horizontal machining centers
- CNC turning platforms
- Create and set up documentation, tooling requirements, work instructions, and fixture concepts to support efficient production.
- Develop advanced machining strategies focused on quality, repeatability, cycle-time reduction, and tool life optimization.
- Validate and prove out programs on the machine to ensure accuracy, process capability, and production readiness.
- Collaborate closely with machinists, engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve technical and machining challenges.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives related to machining efficiency, process standardization, and manufacturing throughput.
- Analyze and optimize feeds, speeds, tool engagement, coolant strategies, and cutting conditions for a wide range of materials and geometries.
Ensure machining processes meet customer, engineering, and quality requirements for highly complex precision components.
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Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- 5+ years of CNC programming experience in a precision manufacturing environment.
- Strong proficiency in:
- Mastercam 3-axis through 5-axis programming
- Multi-axis machining strategies
- GD&T and blueprint interpretation
- Deep understanding of machining theory, tooling, fixturing, work holding, and material machinability.
Experience supporting aerospace, defense, semiconductor, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments strongly preferred.
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Skills, Abilities & Experience
- Experience with:
- Mastercam, must have
- HyperMill, a plus
- Vericut, simulation and program verification, a plus
- Experience with high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments.
- Knowledge of advanced fixture design and process development.
Work to the AS9100 standard
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What We’re Looking For
- Strong technical problem-solving and process optimization skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented mindset with a strong commitment to quality and precision.
Collaborative team player capable of working cross-functionally with production, engineering, and quality teams.
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Physical Requirements
ITAR ONLY
The business site where this position is located is an ITAR-compliant operation. Due to ITAR regulations, Ichor Systems is only able to employ US Persons. A US person is a lawful permanent resident (immigrant with “green card” permanent authorization to work document) or who is a protected person (a citizen, a national, a refugee, or a person granted asylum). Non-citizens with other visas are not eligible for hire at this location.
The base salary range for this full-time position is $33.37 - $56.73 hourly. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional job-related factors, including knowledge, skills, experience, tenure, and relevant education or training. The pay scale is subject to change depending on business needs. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
