Manufacturing Programmer
Summary
At Aster Brands, a family-owned maker of precast concrete forming equipment, the Manufacturing Programmer turns engineering drawings and 3D models into CAD/CAM programs for fiber lasers, CNC press brakes, mills, SLS 3D printers, and laser etchers, working with engineering and production to improve how parts are made.
Aster Brands is a family-owned company with a purpose to “Change the World in Concrete Ways.” We design and manufacture steel and polyurethane forming equipment for the precast concrete industry. Our brand portfolio includes Redi-Rock, Rosetta Hardscapes, Pole Base, Novum Wall, and Velpont. We support manufacturers worldwide with innovative systems, equipment, training, and support.
As a Manufacturing Programmer, you will translate engineering drawings and models into accurate, efficient software programs for implementation of manufacturing equipment at our facility. You will work closely with Engineering, Operations, and Research & Development to support daily production, develop components, and improve how our products are made. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing plant, therefore you’ll work side by side with development team members and be able to see the physical products you’ve supported daily!
This role combines detailed computer work with collaboration on the production floor. Your work will help our team produce quality parts, reduce waste, and bring new ideas into production. Your responsibilities will include and may not be limited to -
- Create, modify, and maintain CAD/CAM programs for the following manufacturing equipment:
- Fiber laser (Amada)
- CNC press brake (Amanda)
- CNC milling machine (Mazak)
- SLS 3D Printer(s)
- Laser etcher
- Review drawings, 3D models, bills of materials, and specifications to confirm dimensions, materials, tolerances, and manufacturing requirements.
- Create flat patterns from drawings and 3D models, and develop efficient nesting layouts to maximize material use.
- Determine appropriate operation sequences, toolpaths, tooling, and processing parameters in collaboration with Engineering and machine operators.
- Use program simulations and support trial runs and first-part checks to identify errors, resolve issues, and confirm parts meet specifications.
- Develop programs for prototypes, test components, and new product designs; document results and help refine processes for repeatable production.
- Keep programs and supporting files organized and aligned with approved engineering change orders.
- Identify opportunities to reduce scrap, setup time, rework, and cycle times while maintaining quality and safe operation.
- Communicate programming needs, production challenges, and improvement ideas clearly, and follow established safety and quality procedures.
- Technical education or training in CAD/CAM, programming, machining, or a related field.
- Experience using CAD/CAM software to create or modify manufacturing programs.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, 3D models, bills of materials, and dimensional tolerances.
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, tooling, and machine capabilities.
- Strong attention to detail, practical problem-solving skills, and an organized approach to managing files and priorities.
- Clear communication skills and a willingness to work closely with engineers, operators, and other team members.
- Curiosity, initiative, and an interest in learning new equipment, software, and manufacturing methods.
This position is based at our manufacturing facility in Harbor Springs, Michigan, which currently underwent renovations to create an even better place to work!
To learn more about who we are and the impact of our work, visit us at www.asterbrands.com. Aster Brands is an equal-opportunity employer; everyone is encouraged to apply.
