CNC Machining Capability Project Engineer

Standard Job Description

The CNC Machining Capability Project Engineer is the technical person for evaluating, selecting, and developing external machining suppliers for complex CNC milling and turning operations (3 to 5 axis). In addition to deep technical expertise, this role requires strong business acumen—the ability to translate capability data into strategic sourcing decisions that drive cost savings, revenue protection, and market competitiveness.

This role partners closely with Supply Chain, Strategic Sourcing, Supplier Quality, and Operations to evaluate machining capabilities, resolve technical issues, reduce cost and risk, and ensure suppliers can meet quality, delivery, and performance requirements.

This position bridges the gap between engineering intent and supplier execution, providing hands-on machining expertise to support supplier selection, development, and ongoing performance

Focus Areas:

Supplier Technical Evaluation & Selection

• Lead technical assessments of machining suppliers, including:
  
  • CNC milling/turning (3–5 axis)
  • Complex tolerances & GD&T
  • Materials (aluminum, titanium, steel, Inconel, composites, etc.)
• Support RFQ/RFP reviews by:
  
  • Review drawings for machining types
  • Match suppliers to drawing requirements, quality requirements, volume and program needs
  • Manufacturability concerns
  • Process assumptions
  • Cycle times and cost drivers
  • Support PO Kickoffs and drawing reviews with the supplier
• Participate in source selection decisions as the machining technical authority

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s (or higher) degree in a relevant engineering discipline; PMP/PRINCE2 or advanced degree preferred.

10 + years of engineering experience with at least 4 years leading large, multi‑disciplinary projects (≥ $5 M budget, 10+ team members).

Expert in CAD/CAE, GD&T, BOM management, and PLM/ERP tools; strong command of Earned Value, risk registers, and schedule control.

Proven leadership and communication skills – able to mentor teams, influence senior stakeholders, and produce clear technical and executive reports.

Familiarity with applicable industry standards and regulations (AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR/EAR, etc.) and capable of driving root‑cause analysis and continuous‑improvement initiatives.

Desired Skills

Advanced CNC & CAD/CAM expertise – Proficient with 3‑, 4‑ and 5‑axis machining, tooling selection, cutting‑parameter optimization, and multi‑axis CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Siemens NX, HyperMILL).

Process planning, fixturing & quality control – Develop detailed setup sheets, design work‑holding, program CMM/laser inspections, apply GD&T, and follow ISO/AS9100 quality procedures.

Project‑management & continuous‑improvement – Use Earned‑Value, risk registers, and schedule tools (MS Project/Primavera); drive root‑cause analysis, Lean/Six‑Sigma projects to cut cycle time, scrap and tool wear.

Cross‑functional communication & documentation – Translate engineering requirements into clear machining documentation, status reports, and presentations for designers, suppliers, customers, and senior leadership.

Integrated systems, safety & adaptability – Work with PLM/ERP (Teamcenter, SAP) for BOM and change control, adhere to machine‑tool safety standards (ISO 12100/ANSI B11), and travel to on‑site facilities for audits and project execution.