Senior 5-Axis Machinist & On-Floor NPI Programmer

Senior Manufacturing Engineer - 5-Axis Machining
Siemens NX | Siemens One & Heidenhain TNC 7
Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Status: Full-time | Salaried | On-site
Smith & Compan y is an engineering-driven precision machining company supporting aerospace and defense programs. We program real 5-axis work—complex geometry, tight tolerances, challenging materials, and NPI heavy programs—on world-class equipment.
This is not a desk-only CAM role. You’ll be on the floor, at the machine, and in the details—owning the process from model to metal.
What You’ll Do

• Program complex 5-axis CNC parts using Siemens NX
• Develop and optimize toolpaths for Heller, Hermle, and Zayer platforms
• Support machines running Siemens One and Heidenhain TNC 7 controls
• Lead programming for NPI, first-run builds, and complex production work
• Collaborate closely with machinists, quality, and engineering during prove-outs
• Optimize cycle time, tool life, workholding, and process stability
• Create clean, production-ready programs, setup documentation, and standards
• Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement on the shop floor
  

• Proven experience programming 5-axis CNC machining centers
• Strong proficiency in Siemens NX (multi-axis, surfacing, complex toolpaths)
• Experience supporting Siemens and/or Heidenhain controls
• Background in aerospace, defense, or other high-complexity machining
• Strong understanding of GD&T, fixturing strategy, and material behavior
• Comfortable working directly with machines and operators
• Project / program management, including direct customer engagement U.S. Person eligible to work on ITAR-regulated programs
  

• Frequent standing and walking on the shop floor
• Frequent sitting while programming and reviewing models
• Reaching, including overhead, during machine support and setup reviews
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs (tooling, fixtures, components)
• Ability to work around large machines, moving equipment, and cranes
• Required to follow all shop safety procedures, PPE requirements, and safe-work practices
  

• Maintain a strong safety-first mindset when supporting machining operations
• Follow all company and regulatory safety procedures
• Identify and communicate potential safety or process risks
• Lead by example—safe setups, safe prove-outs, safe troubleshooting
  

• Competitive salaried compensation aligned with experience
• Brand-new, climate-controlled facility with all new equipment
• Direct access to leadership—engineering has a real voice here
• Work on high-visibility aerospace & defense programs
• Long-term growth with a company scaling the right way Ready to program at the highest level?