- We are seeking a technically skilled Remote CNC/CAM Programmer to support a growing U.S.-based CNC manufacturing operation. This opportunity offers a Kenyan-based professional the chance to contribute to precision manufacturing while working remotely with an international team.
- The successful candidate will handle routine and moderately complex CNC programming assignments, allowing senior technical staff to focus on advanced machining, troubleshooting, and process improvement.
- The Remote CNC/CAM Programmer will support the programming and machining team by preparing accurate, production-ready CNC programs for lowerto mid-complexity components.
- Typical assignments may include:
- Basic plates and hole patterns
- Straightforward machined components
- Simple fixtures
- Replacement machine parts
- Other lower-complexity CNC jobs
- The ideal candidate must have a strong CNC machining background and understand how programs are executed in a production environment. This is a technical manufacturing role requiring practical knowledge of machining processes, engineering drawings, tooling, setup requirements, tolerances, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
- Develop CNC programs using ESPRIT CAM software.
- Program simple and repeatable CNC components remotely.
- Convert approved CAD designs into machine-ready programs.
- Review customer and internal 3D models before programming.
- Ensure programs meet engineering drawing and blueprint specifications.
- Verify toolpaths for safety, accuracy, and efficiency.
- Review programs before releasing them for production.
- Identify programming errors and potential machinability issues before production begins.
CAD and Engineering Drawing Review
- Review SolidWorks models, engineering drawings, and blueprints.
- Assess whether components can be manufactured using available CNC processes.
- Interpret dimensions, tolerances, GD&T, hole patterns, material specifications, and finishing requirements.
- Identify missing or unclear technical information and seek clarification before programming.
Setup and Production Documentation
- Prepare clear setup sheets for machinists and machine operators.
- Document tooling requirements, setup instructions, workholding arrangements, operation sequences, and program notes.
- Prepare or support the development of inspection sheets.
- Provide practical written instructions that production personnel can easily follow.
Program Review and Optimization
- Review CNC programs for accuracy, safety, cycle time, tool selection, toolpath efficiency, and setup efficiency.
- Identify opportunities to reduce machining time and production costs.
- Improve programming consistency, repeatability, and overall efficiency.
- Escalate complex programming and machining challenges to senior technical personnel when necessary.
Rapid-Turnaround Programming Support
- Manage programming assignments in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Review assigned drawings and CAD models promptly.
- Complete CNC programs and supporting documentation within agreed timelines.
- Return completed work within the agreed working period, including same-day turnaround where required.
- Balance speed with accuracy and production quality.
- AI and Process Improvement Opportunities
- The successful candidate may contribute to initiatives aimed at improving repetitive programming and production workflows, including:
- Using AI tools to streamline programming and documentation tasks.
- Automating the preparation of inspection documents.
- Exploring optical character recognition (OCR) workflows to transfer inspection drawing information into Excel.
- Improving the preparation of annotated or "bubbled" inspection drawings.
- Identifying repetitive tasks suitable for automation.
- Testing practical technology solutions that reduce programming time and improve production efficiency.
- AI experience is not essential, but an interest in automation, technology, and continuous improvement is highly valued.
Required Skills and Experience
- Professional experience in CNC machining, CNC programming, or manufacturing engineering.
- Strong practical experience using ESPRIT CAM software.
- Ability to independently develop CNC programs from engineering drawings and CAD models.
- Ability to interpret detailed manufacturing blueprints.
- Sound knowledge of CNC machining processes, tooling, workholding, machine setup, speeds and feeds, tolerances, GD&T, and machining sequences.
- Practical understanding of how CNC programs will be executed on the shop floor.
- Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
- Excellent problem-solving ability and attention to detail.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Ability to communicate technical instructions clearly in writing.
- Ability to deliver accurate work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Reliable internet connection and a suitable remote-working setup.
- ESPRIT Computer Aided Machinery software.
- Proficiency is essential because it is the primary programming platform used for this role.
- SolidWorks, particularly for reviewing 3D models and engineering designs.
- Transferable Experience
- Candidates with strong Mastercam or other advanced CAM software experience may be considered if they demonstrate the technical ability to become proficient in ESPRIT quickly.
- Additional useful tools include:
- Microsoft Excel
- PDF drawing and markup software
- Inspection documentation software
- AI productivity and automation tools