Remote Computer Numerical Control/Computer Aided Manufacturing Programmer – ESPIRIT at CDL Human Resource

About the Opportunity

• We are seeking a technically skilled Remote CNC/CAM Programmer to support a growing U.S.-based CNC manufacturing operation. This opportunity offers a Kenyan-based professional the chance to contribute to precision manufacturing while working remotely with an international team.
• The successful candidate will handle routine and moderately complex CNC programming assignments, allowing senior technical staff to focus on advanced machining, troubleshooting, and process improvement.

About the Role

• The Remote CNC/CAM Programmer will support the programming and machining team by preparing accurate, production-ready CNC programs for lowerto mid-complexity components.
• Typical assignments may include:
• Basic plates and hole patterns
• Straightforward machined components
• Simple fixtures
• Replacement machine parts
• Other lower-complexity CNC jobs
• The ideal candidate must have a strong CNC machining background and understand how programs are executed in a production environment. This is a technical manufacturing role requiring practical knowledge of machining processes, engineering drawings, tooling, setup requirements, tolerances, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).

Key Responsibilities

CNC Programming

• Develop CNC programs using ESPRIT CAM software.
• Program simple and repeatable CNC components remotely.
• Convert approved CAD designs into machine-ready programs.
• Review customer and internal 3D models before programming.
• Ensure programs meet engineering drawing and blueprint specifications.
• Verify toolpaths for safety, accuracy, and efficiency.
• Review programs before releasing them for production.
• Identify programming errors and potential machinability issues before production begins.

CAD and Engineering Drawing Review

• Review SolidWorks models, engineering drawings, and blueprints.
• Assess whether components can be manufactured using available CNC processes.
• Interpret dimensions, tolerances, GD&T, hole patterns, material specifications, and finishing requirements.
• Identify missing or unclear technical information and seek clarification before programming.

Setup and Production Documentation

• Prepare clear setup sheets for machinists and machine operators.
• Document tooling requirements, setup instructions, workholding arrangements, operation sequences, and program notes.
• Prepare or support the development of inspection sheets.
• Provide practical written instructions that production personnel can easily follow.

Program Review and Optimization

• Review CNC programs for accuracy, safety, cycle time, tool selection, toolpath efficiency, and setup efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to reduce machining time and production costs.
• Improve programming consistency, repeatability, and overall efficiency.
• Escalate complex programming and machining challenges to senior technical personnel when necessary.

Rapid-Turnaround Programming Support

• Manage programming assignments in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Review assigned drawings and CAD models promptly.
• Complete CNC programs and supporting documentation within agreed timelines.
• Return completed work within the agreed working period, including same-day turnaround where required.
• Balance speed with accuracy and production quality.
• AI and Process Improvement Opportunities
• The successful candidate may contribute to initiatives aimed at improving repetitive programming and production workflows, including:
• Using AI tools to streamline programming and documentation tasks.
• Automating the preparation of inspection documents.
• Exploring optical character recognition (OCR) workflows to transfer inspection drawing information into Excel.
• Improving the preparation of annotated or “bubbled” inspection drawings.
• Identifying repetitive tasks suitable for automation.
• Testing practical technology solutions that reduce programming time and improve production efficiency.
• AI experience is not essential, but an interest in automation, technology, and continuous improvement is highly valued.

Requirements

Required Skills and Experience

• Professional experience in CNC machining, CNC programming, or manufacturing engineering.
• Strong practical experience using ESPRIT CAM software.
• Ability to independently develop CNC programs from engineering drawings and CAD models.
• Ability to interpret detailed manufacturing blueprints.
• Sound knowledge of CNC machining processes, tooling, workholding, machine setup, speeds and feeds, tolerances, GD&T, and machining sequences.
• Practical understanding of how CNC programs will be executed on the shop floor.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
• Excellent problem-solving ability and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to communicate technical instructions clearly in writing.
• Ability to deliver accurate work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Reliable internet connection and a suitable remote-working setup.

Software Requirements

• ESPRIT Computer Aided Machinery software.
• Proficiency is essential because it is the primary programming platform used for this role.

Strongly Preferred

• SolidWorks, particularly for reviewing 3D models and engineering designs.
• Transferable Experience
• Candidates with strong Mastercam or other advanced CAM software experience may be considered if they demonstrate the technical ability to become proficient in ESPRIT quickly.
• Additional useful tools include:
• Microsoft Excel
• PDF drawing and markup software
• Inspection documentation software
• AI productivity and automation tools