Lead CAD / CAM Multi‑Axis CNC Programmer

Job Description

Job Description

Lead CAD / CAM Multi‑Axis CNC Programmer

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we create medical technology that helps people live without limits—and you’ll be at the center of how we make the parts that power that mission.

A day in the life

You start your morning reviewing a new orthopedic component. You open your CAD / CAM suite, build a clean multi‑axis toolpath, and select the chucking device, cutters, and feeds / speeds with standardization in mind. After lunch, you’re on the floor for prove‑out, validating the CNC program at the machine and coaching operators through process validation and training. Before you wrap, you update the master program directory, report a cost improvement you implemented, and assign an upcoming programming task to a teammate while advising Manufacturing Engineering on a new piece of equipment.

What you'll own

• Develop and maintain complex, multi‑axis CNC programs using CAD / CAM to produce precision components.
• Design machining processes end‑to‑end : chucking / fixturing selection, cutting tools, tool layouts, and optimized speeds / feeds with a focus on standard methods.
• Witness prove‑outs at the machine; validate and release programs.
• Create detailed work instructions; supervise machining process validations and conduct operator training.
• Collaborate across Manufacturing Engineering, Product Development Engineering, plant operations, and external partners.
• Maintain the master CNC program directory with rigorous file management to preserve program integrity.
• Identify, implement, and report measurable cost improvements.
• Coordinate and delegate programming work among other programmers as needed.
• Support the design of jigs, tools, fixtures, and special equipment for CNC applications.
• Uphold and advance current CNC programming standards and best practices.
• Recommend new manufacturing equipment based on process needs and capability analyses.
• Follow all programming file management procedures and applicable Quality Specifications to ensure compliance with our Quality Management System (QMS).
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert and mentor to programmers and machinists.
• Partner with multi‑functional teams on improvement projects and kaizen events.

What you bring

Your toolkit

Machines & technologies you'll use : CAM Software

Grow with us

You. Unlimited! We invest in our people and the patients we serve.