About the RoleLightsout CNC is a precision CNC machine shop building an automated, software-enabled, lights-out 5-axis production model. We are seeking a senior CNC programmer to support RFQ capability screening, DFM feedback, and production-ready 5-axis programming for tight-tolerance aluminum components.
This is a remote, hourly contract role with recurring project-based work. The ideal candidate is a highly experienced 5-axis programmer who can work independently, communicate clearly, and deliver reliable programs and documentation suitable for operator handoff and eventual lights-out production.
While aerospace experience is helpful, the core requirement is deep experience with tight-tolerance aluminum parts, 5-axis simultaneous machining, Mastercam, SOLIDWORKS/GD&T, and verification/simulation workflows.
Engagement Details- US-based, remote
- Work will be performed inside Lightsout CNC's controlled environment via secure remote desktop / VPN.
- Lightsout CNC will provide required software access, including Mastercam Multiaxis, VERICUT with machine simulation, SOLIDWORKS, validated post-processors, machine / fixture models, and tool libraries.
- Initial workload is expected to be approximately 10 hours/week, with potential to ramp toward 20-25 hours/week as quoting and awarded work volume increases.
- Long-term contract potential if the engagement is successful.
Responsibilities- Review incoming RFQs, models, and drawings to assess machinability, capability, and production feasibility.
- Provide clear DFM feedback to support accurate, competitive quoting.
- Estimate machining strategy, cycle-time assumptions, tooling needs, and fixture/workholding considerations.
- Develop efficient, robust 5-axis simultaneous toolpaths in Mastercam for tight-tolerance aluminum components.
- Verify programs using VERICUT or comparable machine simulation / collision-detection workflows before release.
- Post-process and deliver production-ready NC code, tool lists, setup sheets, and operator handoff documentation.
- Collaborate with the shop on tooling selection, workholding / fixturing strategy, and process refinement.
- Provide responsive RFQ / DFM support during business hours as quoting volume scales.
Required Qualifications- 7+ years of CNC programming experience, including significant 5-axis simultaneous machining experience.
- Expert-level Mastercam multiaxis programming experience.
- Strong experience programming tight-tolerance aluminum components, including materials such as 6061-T6, 7075-T6, or similar high-precision alloys.
- Proficiency reading SOLIDWORKS models and interpreting GD&T on engineering drawings.
- Experience with machine simulation, verification, and collision detection; VERICUT experience strongly preferred.
- Ability to produce clean setup sheets, tool lists, NC code, and program documentation for reliable operator handoff.
- Ability to support RFQ review, manufacturability assessment, cycle-time assumptions, and DFM feedback.
- Comfortable working remotely inside a secure customer-provided software environment.
Preferred Qualifications- Direct aerospace or defense manufacturing experience.
- Hands-on VERICUT machine simulation experience.
- Experience programming for lights-out or unattended production environments.
- Experience with in-process probing, tool-breakage detection routines, or automated machining workflows.
- Familiarity with pallet-pool or automation-cell workflows.
- Post-processor development, tuning, or troubleshooting experience.
- Prior remote contract programming or consulting experience.
Ideal Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate is a senior 5-axis CNC programmer who has deep Mastercam experience, understands tight-tolerance aluminum machining, can review RFQs quickly, and can deliver clean, production-ready programs and documentation.
They should be comfortable working remotely, communicating clearly, and supporting a fast-moving precision manufacturing environment where responsiveness and accuracy are both critical.
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