Job Information
Actalent CNC Programmer in Seattle, Washington
Job Title: CNC Programmer
Job Description
This position focuses on advanced CNC programming in a high-mix prototype and production environment. CNC Programmer develops complete manufacturing packages for 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn machines, including NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files. The role combines expert-level workholding and fixture design with deep knowledge of machining processes, tooling, and cutting strategies to support efficient, high-quality production.
Responsibilities
Develop optimized NC code for 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn CNC operations to support prototype and production machining.
Create clear, detailed setup sheets that define tooling, fixturing, work offsets, and other critical setup information for the shop floor.
Generate accurate simulation files to verify CNC programs and identify potential issues before releasing them to production.
Deliver complete, production-ready manufacturing packages that include NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files for floor execution.
Design custom fixtures and workholding solutions for complex and high-precision parts.
Optimize workholding strategies to improve efficiency, reduce setup time, and enhance part quality and consistency.
Collaborate with machinists to implement, test, and refine fixture and workholding solutions on the shop floor.
Select appropriate cutting tools, speeds, and feeds to achieve optimal machining performance.
Balance cycle time reduction with tool life, machine utilization, and part quality to improve overall process efficiency.
Support transitions from prototype to production by developing scalable and repeatable programming solutions.
Work closely with manufacturing engineers and machinists to align programming with manufacturing capabilities and project requirements.
Troubleshoot CNC programming issues and implement corrective actions to resolve quality, performance, or process problems.
Provide technical guidance on machining capabilities, limitations, and best practices to support engineering and production decisions.
Essential Skills
Minimum of 8 years of advanced CNC programming experience in a production or prototype environment.
Expert-level capabilities in workholding and fixture design for complex machined components.
Proficiency in programming 3-axis, 5-axis, and mill-turn CNC machines.
Proven ability to deliver complete manufacturing packages, including NC code, setup sheets, and simulation files.
Strong understanding of machining processes, including milling and turning operations.
Deep knowledge of tooling selection, cutting strategies, speeds, and feeds for a variety of materials.
Ability to collaborate effectively with machinists and manufacturing engineers to support production needs.
Strong problem-solving skills for diagnosing and resolving CNC programming and machining issues.
Attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, production-ready documentation.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience working in ISO 9001 certified manufacturing environments.
Hands-on experience with Mastercam programming software.
Hands-on experience with ESPRIT programming software.
Background in high-mix prototype and production machining environments.
Ability to support prototype-to-production transitions with scalable programming strategies.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $55.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Seattle,WA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 1, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.