5-Axis CNC Milling Programmer (Supervisory) – East Rand

SUMMARY:
5-Axis CNC Milling Programmer (Supervisory) 
East Rand

Job Overview
A well-established precision engineering and manufacturing company is urgently seeking a 5-Axis CNC Milling Programmer to join its team. This is a senior role that combines hands-on CNC programming for complex machining applications with supervising and training other team members. It requires a candidate with exceptional technical ability, analytical thinking, attention to detail and strong people skills.
The successful candidate must have proven experience programming at least 4-axis CNC milling machines using CAD/CAM software. Training on 5-axis programming can be provided to the right candidate, provided they have excellent soft skills. The role suits someone who is reliable, open-minded, eager to keep growing, and motivated to push the limits of what can be achieved in precision manufacturing.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities

• Develop, create, and optimise CNC programs for 4-axis and 5-axis milling machines.
• Generate machining programs directly from engineering drawings and 3D CAD models.
• Utilise CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Autodesk Inventor CAM, Siemens NX, or similar programming platforms.
• Determine machining strategies to maximise efficiency, quality, and tool life.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, tooling strategies, feeds, and speeds.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical specifications.
• Troubleshoot machining and programming issues while implementing effective solutions.
• Verify and simulate CNC programs before production.
• Supervise CNC programming and machining staff, and train and mentor team members to develop their skills.
• Communicate clearly with engineering, production and management teams to improve machining processes.
• Continuously identify opportunities to reduce cycle times and improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Ensure all programs comply with quality and safety standards.

• Proven experience programming at least 4-axis CNC milling machines (5-axis experience highly advantageous).
• Strong CAD/CAM programming experience using software such as:
  • Mastercam
  • Autodesk Inventor CAM
  • Siemens NX
  • Edgecam
  • SolidCAM
  • Fusion 360 (advantageous)
• Excellent understanding of CNC machining principles.
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and geometric tolerancing (GD&T).
• Strong mathematical and analytical problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to precision.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Supervisory experience and the ability to train and develop others.
• Reliable, open-minded and willing to learn and grow further.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

• National Diploma or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
• BTech or Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Tool, Jig and Die Making qualification
• Trade Test with significant programming and engineering exposure
• Other recognised engineering qualifications demonstrating advanced technical competence

• Exceptional problem-solving skills.
• Strong engineering judgement.
• The ability to analyse complex machining requirements and develop efficient programming solutions.
• A methodical and detail-oriented approach.
• Strong leadership, with the patience and ability to train and supervise others.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Reliability, an open mind, and the drive to keep growing and push the limits.
• A passion for precision manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• The confidence to make technical decisions independently.