Programmer, CNC - TPI Composites, Inc

About TPI

TPI Composites is a global provider of structural composites products and has 50 years of experience in the design, development, prototyping and serial production of advanced lightweight composite structures. We specialize in molding lightweight composite products for the Automotive and Wind Energy industries.  TPI Automotive also provides a full range of services that complement our customers’ extensive vehicle engineering capability. 

Position Summary

The Senior CNC Programmer is responsible for programming, operating, and maintaining computer numeric controlled (CNC) equipment. Works closely with the Engineering team to produce prototype (first run), production composite parts, and manufacturing tooling and fixtures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Sets up and able to operate 3, 5, and 7-axis machines; extensive knowledge in fixturing and part setup.
• Reads engineering drawings, specifications and interpret customer requirements.
• Creates 3-7 axis tool paths utilizing CAD/CAM software.
• Understands speeds and feeds and is able to edit G & M code from CNC controller.
• Determines methods, tooling, feeds, speeds and all other necessary requirements necessary for manufacturing of parts.
• Understands GD&T for correct part holding, fixture sequencing and order of operations.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes for layup, trim, and assembly of composite hardware.
• Determines methods, cutter types and cutting parameters depending on a variety of materials (composites, epoxies, steel, aluminum, etc.) and design specifications.
• Works with process engineers on planning of manufacturing process to ensure that quality and design objectives are achieved.
• Troubleshoots and solves problems for example, with machines, tooling and program malfunction. 
• Ability to identify composite damage. 
• Monitors machine operations and adjusts as necessary to maintain quality and productivity. 
• Trains new employees to operate CNC machines and programs.
• Works closely with engineering teams to provide crucial input on design for manufacturability. 
• Openly communicates with engineers, management, and other team members.
• Willing and able to train and learn new CNC software as needed.
• Able to manage multiple projects in different stages of development.
• Can work independently with vendors to seek out solutions.
• Willing to travel as needed to execute training on new equipment or software.

Education/ Skills/ Experience:

• Engineering or engineering technology degree and at least 7 years of CNC programming experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous CNC experience working with composite materials preferred.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• CAM programming with Mastercam preferred.
• Manual machining experience a plus.
• Ability to utilize standard inspection tools to verify parts meet print specifications (including but not limited to calipers, micrometer, Height Gauges etc.)
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles is beneficial.
• Knowledge of design techniques, engineering principles, mechanical processes
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with ISO 14001 and IATF 16949 preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented work environment - willing to collaborate with and assist team members.

Physical Skills and Abilities:

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to be on the factory floor for long periods of time, potentially working across shifts at times.
• Stamina to occasionally work 50+ hours/week to support plant performance.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to noisy.

Benefits include health, dental, vision, STD/LTD, EAP, Life, PTO, 401K