Job Details: Job Location: Van-Am Tool & Engineering - St. Joseph, MO 64507, Position Type: Full Time, Salary Range: Undisclosed, Job Shift: Day, SUMMARY The CNC Programmer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and optimizing CNC programs to support Van-Am Tool & Engineering’s machining operations. This position translates engineering blueprints and 3D CAD designs into precise machine instructions, selects appropriate tooling, validates programs through simulation and prove-out, and partners with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve efficiency, maintain specification compliance, and support continuous improvement initiatives. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Review 3D CAD models and engineering drawings to develop CNC programs using CAD/CAM software Write, modify, and optimize CNC programs for lathes, mills, grinders, and other machining equipment Determine machining sequences, cutting paths, tooling requirements, speeds, feeds, tolerances, and material requirements for each job Conduct program simulations and machine prove-outs to validate CNC programs and make required adjustments Prepare setup sheets, tooling lists, workholding documentation, and production instructions to support efficient manufacturing Support Sales and Engineering with new part quotations by estimating raw material requirements, machining cycle times, tooling needs, and fixturing packages Collaborate with engineers, machinists, and quality personnel to resolve programming, setup, and production issues Continuously improve setup times, tooling utilization, machining efficiency, and overall process performance Maintain CNC programs, program libraries, setup documentation, and revision-controlled records Ensure compliance with company policies, safety requirements, customer specifications, and applicable Quality Management System requirements Provide training and technical support to machinists and other staff on CNC programming practices   Qualifications: KNOWLEDGE Strong knowledge of CNC programming, machining principles, tooling selection, cutting paths, and production setup requirements Proficiency with CAD/CAM software and platforms including SolidWorks, CAMWorks, Creo, ProE, CATIA, and PTC Creo; SolidWorks and CAMWorks preferred Working knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, algebra, trigonometry, tolerances, and material requirements Familiarity with ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality standards preferred Experience with advanced CAM systems, multi-axis machining, aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments preferred   COMPETENCIES Strong technical problem-solving and analytical thinking High attention to detail in programming, documentation, calculations, and quality compliance Clear and professional communication with engineering, production, quality, and sales teams Ability to collaborate across departments to resolve programming and production challenges Commitment to continuous improvement, safety, quality, and machining efficiency Ability to manage shifting priorities, strict deadlines, and fast-paced manufacturing demands EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION Associate’s degree in CNC Programming, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required; equivalent work experience may be considered Minimum of three years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing or machining environment required Experience working with aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing quality standards preferred Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field preferred No certifications required WORKING CONDITIONS Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer Occasional walking, standing, and moving between engineering, inspection, and production areas Ability to lift up to 25 pounds as needed Visual acuity required for reading blueprints, operating computer software, reviewing machining documentation, and inspecting components Work is primarily performed in an office setting with regular visits to the manufacturing floor Exposure to machining environments, including noise, vibration, moving equipment, and production activity Personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, gloves, and hearing protection may be required in production areas   WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE Must be legally authorized to work in the United States If a security clearance is required: Candidate must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearance requirements Successful candidates must be able to obtain required Program Access approval, if applicable