Full Time
Posted 2 months ago

What You’ll Do (Key Responsibilities)

  • Program, set up, and run CNC mills and lathes in a toolroom environment
  • Build one-off and short-run tooling, fixtures, gauges, and special equipment
  • Determine the most effective manufacturing approach (CNC vs manual vs hybrid)
  • Write, edit, and troubleshoot CNC programs using G-code, conversational controls, and CAM software
  • Utilize GibbsCAM for CNC programming (training available for candidates with prior CAM experience)
  • Work directly from prints and 3D models to meet tight tooling deadlines
  • Perform first-piece inspection and ensure tooling meets precision and quality requirements
  • Collaborate with engineering and toolroom teammates to improve tooling designs and functionality
  • Troubleshoot and resolve machining and tooling challenges

This Role Is:

  • CNC-programming heavy
  • Hands-on and problem-solving focused
  • Toolroom / high-mix / one-off work
  • Ideal for senior machinists who own the process from print to finished tooling

This Role Is Not:

  • A button-pushing production CNC position
  • A manual-only machinist role
  • A desk-only programming job

Qualifications & Experience

  • 5+ years experience in a toolroom, job shop, or high-mix machining environment
  • Strong experience programming and setting up CNC mills and/or lathes
  • Experience with CAM software (GibbsCAM preferred; training available)
  • Ability to program using G-code and/or conversational controls (ProtoTRAK, Mazatrol, etc.)
  • Solid manual machining background (mills, lathes, grinders) to support tooling work
  • Proven experience building fixtures, gauges, or custom tooling
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and 3D models
  • Strong understanding of machining practices, tooling selection, and inspection methods
  • Comfortable working independently and managing multiple tooling priorities

Important:

Applicants should be comfortable creating CNC programs from scratch, not just editing existing programs.

Why Pioneer Products

Pioneer Products is a precision machining job shop specializing in pressure-tight aluminum castings and complex machined components. We design and build all of our own fixtures, tooling, pressure test systems, and special equipment, giving toolroom machinists real ownership and variety in their work.

What you’ll find here:

  • Diverse, hands-on tooling projects
  • A collaborative, skilled toolroom environment
  • Freedom to influence how tooling is designed and built
  • Competitive pay, benefits, and long-term stability

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

This role is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving mechanical parts, vibration, and elevated noise levels (hearing protection provided). The position requires standing, walking, lifting, and working hands-on with machinery and tooling.