CNC Machining Programming / Setup Operator
JGW Machine Limited is one of Ontario's leading metal fabricators, producing a wide range of high-quality metal components for customers across Ontario and worldwide. Our clean, modern, and highly automated 106,000-square-foot facility is located in Southwestern Ontario. At JGW, our capabilities include engineering and design, machining, tooling, and comprehensive quality control. We offer services such as laser, forming, CNC machining, production welding, metal spinning, powder coat painting, finishing, and assembly. With a strong tradition of precision, innovation, and excellence, we serve industries globally with short-run, tight-tolerance metal forming and assembly solutions.
Incentives:
- Competitive wages
- Stable, full-time 40/hr week plus opportunity for overtime
- Comprehensive benefit package
- Opportunity for growth
- Company-provided uniforms
- And much more!
Job Summary:
The CNC Machining Programmer / Setup Operator is responsible for programming, setting up, operating, and optimizing CNC machining equipment to produce precision components that meet quality and production requirements. This role supports a high-mix manufacturing environment and requires extensive experience programming and troubleshooting CNC machining processes, primarily on Okuma equipment.
The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and optimizing CNC programs using MasterCAM, supporting production through efficient setups and process improvements, and working across a range of equipment including CNC lathes, vertical machining centres, horizontal machining centres, and secondary machining operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Complies with company policies, safety standards, and ISO procedures while performing duties.
- Program CNC machining equipment using MasterCAM for horizontal machining centres, vertical machining centres, and CNC lathes.
- Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot CNC programs to maximize efficiency, quality, and tooling performance.
- Set up and operate CNC machining equipment including Okuma horizontal machining centres, vertical machining centres, and multi-axis turning centres.
- Perform complete and progressive setups for production runs, including tooling selection, work holding, offsets, and program prove-outs.
- Edit and adjust CNC programs at the machine as required to maintain optimal performance and part quality.
- Operate and monitor multiple machines simultaneously where required to support production demands.
- Perform in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment to ensure parts meet specifications.
- Troubleshoot machining, tooling, fixture, and setup issues and implement corrective actions.
- Support tooling selection, fixture improvements, and process optimization initiatives.
- Maintain machine uptime by proactively identifying and addressing potential issues.
- Support secondary operations such as drilling, tapping, and manual machining as required.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing practices.
- Communicate production issues, delays, quality concerns, and process improvement opportunities to Team Leads and Supervisors.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by management.
Equipment & Process Scope:
- CNC horizontal machining centres (Okuma preferred)
- CNC vertical machining centres (Okuma preferred)
- CNC turning centres (multi-axis) (Okuma preferred)
- Manual drilling and tapping equipment
- Secondary machining and finishing operations
- MasterCAM programming software
Quality & Safety:
- Ensures all work is performed in compliance with safety regulations and company procedures.
- Follows ISO quality standards and inspection processes.
- Verifies part dimensions, tolerances, and finishes using appropriate measuring tools.
- Maintains proper documentation of inspections and production activities as required.
- Identifies and reports safety concerns or equipment issues promptly.
Team Support & Communication:
- Works effectively within a team environment to support production goals.
- Communicates clearly with Team Leads, Supervisors, and co-workers regarding production status and issues.
- Assists in training or supporting less experienced operators as required.
- Contributes to a positive and professional shop environment.
Skill Requirements:
- Extensive experience programming CNC machining equipment using MasterCAM required.
- Proven ability to set up and operate CNC machining equipment in a production environment.
- Strong experience with Okuma machining & turning centres strongly preferred.
- Experience with horizontal machining centres, vertical machining centres, and multi-axis CNC lathes.
- Strong understanding of machining processes, cutting strategies, tooling, and materials.
- Ability to optimize cycle times, tooling performance, and machining efficiency
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, and GD&T.
- Proficiency with precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, etc.).
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Team-oriented with strong communication abilities.
Effort & Physical Requirements:
- Hands-on role requiring standing for prolonged periods.
- Ability to lift materials up to 40 lbs.
- May require bending, crouching, and repetitive movements.
- Exposure to manufacturing environment conditions including noise and temperature variations.
- Strong attention to detail and a hands-on, results-oriented mindset.
Education & Experience:
- High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Completion of a machining-related program, apprenticeship, or equivalent experience considered an asset.
- Minimum of five (5) years of CNC machining setup and programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated MasterCAM programming experience required.
- Working knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and applicable regulations.
Location:
This position is located in Princeton, Ontario, just 25 minutes from Kitchener/Cambridge and 10 minutes from Brantford.
How to Apply:
Please apply directly through Indeed with your resume. We look forward to reviewing your application!
Applicants with disabilities who require accommodations during the recruitment process are encouraged to let us know at the time of contact, and appropriate provisions will be made.
For more information, please visit our website: www.jgwmachine.com
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $21.00-$25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
Application question(s):
- Do you have reliable transportation to Princeton, ON?
Experience:
Work Location: In person
