Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer and CNC Programmer
This entry-level Manufacturing Engineer and CNC Programmer role at Confidential Client involves hands-on programming and setup of 3-axis and 5-axis CNC mills using Fusion 360 and SolidWorks. The position requires working directly on the shop floor to run machines, design fixtures, support quality inspections, and collaborate on process improvements, offering early career exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies including cobot automation.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, a precision CNC machining and manufacturing company serving aerospace, defense, medical, and RF/microwave customers (precision components, CAD/CAM, and automation).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
About the Role
This is an entry-level, hands-on Manufacturing Engineer / CNC Programmer role based in Ronkonkoma, NY. You will split time between the programming desk and the shop floor, learning 3‑ and 5‑axis programming, machine setup, fixture design, and cobot automation. You will be employed by Confidential Client.
What You’ll Do
This is a practical role — not desk-only. Day-to-day responsibilities include:
- Program 3‑axis and 5‑axis CNC mills using Fusion 360 (CAD/CAM)
- Load programs, set tools and work offsets, install fixtures/workholding, and run first parts
- Design fixtures and workholding in Fusion 360 and SolidWorks
- Prove out and improve programs on the machine with machinists
- Program and run a collaborative robot (cobot) and identify automation opportunities
- Build or modify 3D models from customer prints/models in Fusion 360 and SolidWorks
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, and GD&T
- Create setup sheets, tool lists, and process documentation
- Support first-article inspection and quality checks
- Over time, assist with quoting by estimating cycle times and manufacturability
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a closely related field
- Working knowledge of Fusion 360 and/or SolidWorks
- Understanding of CNC fundamentals: feeds & speeds, tooling, setups, work offsets, basic G‑code
- Ability to read blueprints and basic GD&T
- Comfortable working on the shop floor for extended periods and handling tooling/fixtures
- Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) — ITAR requirement
No professional experience required. Relevant coursework, internships, co‑ops, senior projects, or hands‑on machining experience qualify.
Nice to Have
- Fusion 360 CAM experience from school, internships, or projects
- Fixture/workholding design experience
- Cobot or industrial robot experience (programming, machine tending, automation)
- Hands‑on CNC setup or operation (school labs, Formula SAE, Baja, robotics, internships)
- Any 5‑axis exposure
- Experience with calipers, micrometers, height gauges, or CMMs
- Familiarity with AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality systems
What We Offer
- Real 5‑axis programming and shop‑floor setup experience early in your career
- Hands‑on exposure to cobot automation and automation projects
- Direct mentorship from experienced machinists and ownership
- Clear growth path with a performance/pay review at 6 months tied to independent job running
- Health insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- 401(k) retirement plan
Location & Compensation
Location: Ronkonkoma, NY (on-site).
Estimated compensation (from source listing): $82,194 per year — actual pay may vary based on experience and local law.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range