Ursa Major was founded to address a critical shortfall in the U.S. industrial base and bring a new model to aerospace and defense systems: we design and manufacture the world’s leading propulsion systems for space, hypersonic applications, and missile systems.
Our products and technologies require an extraordinary team – a team that will mold tomorrow’s technologies while deploying today’s best. We are an intrinsically motivated team that has a passion for solving problems and empowering each other every day to develop our skills, knowing that there is always room for growth.
The CNC Applications Engineer/Programmer will be responsible for providing technical support and expertise in the application, optimization, and programming of CNC machines and systems within a manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have advanced knowledge of manufacturing processes, CNC programming, and machining techniques, along with a deep understanding of the integration of CNC machines in production workflows. The role involves collaboration with engineering and operations teams to ensure the most efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality manufacturing solutions. The role involves some machining to enable rapid iteration during development and standup processes prior to transitioning the processes to the production machinist.
This position is an in-person role!
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field or a combination of relevant experience and certifications may be considered in lieu of a four year degree.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in CNC programming, machining, and manufacturing process optimization, with a strong background in the use of CNC equipment (e.g., mills, lathes, multi-axis machines).
- Advanced knowledge of CNC programming language (G-code), CAD/CAM software (e.g., Hypermill, Siemens NX, Fusion 360), machine setup, tooling, and fixture design.
- Deep understanding of advanced manufacturing processes, including machining, milling, turning, EDM, and precision tooling. Additive manufacturing is a plus but not required.
- Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to quickly identify and resolve issues related to machine performance, program errors, and production delays.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and document technical processes and solutions.
- Extensive use of Siemens controlled machines. (Experience with Fanuc controllers not required but is beneficial).
- Experience with advanced CNC machinery (e.g., 5-axis CNC) or multi-tasking machines.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience standing up machining cells for high-volume, lights out machining
- Experience programming B-axis lathes with bar feeder and part movement
- Experience programming palletized machines
- Vendor management and development
- Conduct trade studies on machines for a production line and down-select based on lead time, cost, and capability to maximize value from the capital purchase
- Responsibilities:
- Develop new and improve existing manufacturing processes through the application of theoretical and practical engineering.
- Track technical trends and developments and incorporates them in appropriate process improvements minimizing production downtime
- Collaborate with quality and inspection departments on inspection plans, process prove outs, and throughput
- Organize and participate in cross-functional reviews of the machine requirements, design, qualification, and capabilities.
- Engage machine suppliers for automated equipment, design reviews, and proposals
- Provide early and on going manufacturing involvement to ensure new products are mechanically manufacturable.
- Plan, propose, and lead experiments to produce analyses used to drive design, development, and supply chain decisions
- Create CNC programs and processes to facilitate new product and industrial design. Make samples for design decisions.
- Acts as lead engineer to drive CNC process development and capability assessment activities, reviewing part design to ensure alignment with process capability
- Establish validation procedures to determine acceptance of processes into development builds as well as mass production
- Machine piece parts and initial production runs to enable rapid iteration and process prove out
Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $135,000-$165,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we are evaluating individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy.
Classification: Full-time Exempt.
Benefits Include:
- Unlimited PTO - Vacation, Sick, Personal, and Bereavement
- Paid Parental and Adoptive Leave
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
- Tax Advantage Accounts (HSA/FSA)
- Employer Paid Short and Long Term Disability, Basic Life, AD&D
- Additional Benefit Options Including Voluntary Life and Emergency Medical Transport
- EAP Program
- Retirement Savings Plan - Traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k)
- Equity Grants in the Company
Top Skills
Ursa Major Berthoud, Colorado, USA Office
Our one-of-a kind campus co-locates engineering, manufacturing, & testing operations, allowing for unmatched development time and the chance for employees, customers, and investors alike to experience rocket engine testing as a part of the normal work day.
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