CNC Machining Engineer in Washougal, Washington - #73007 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 73007

CNC Machining Engineer
Our client is seeking a CNC Machining Engineer to support the development, optimization, and continuous improvement of precision machining processes in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role partners closely with engineering, production, quality, and programming teams to develop efficient machining methods, improve manufacturability, and drive operational excellence from prototype through full-scale production. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with a collaborative mindset and a passion for solving complex manufacturing challenges.

This role is on-site in Washougal, Washington.

CNC Machining Engineer Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for new and existing CNC machined components, supporting both milling and turning operations.
• Review engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, customer specifications, and tolerances to determine the most efficient manufacturing methods.
• Design and improve machining processes by selecting tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, inspection methods, and machining strategies that maximize productivity and quality.
• Create and maintain manufacturing documentation, including routers, setup sheets, tooling lists, work instructions, and process standards.
• Collaborate with CNC programmers to optimize toolpaths, reduce cycle times, improve machine utilization, and streamline production workflows.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, fixture, and process issues while implementing corrective actions to improve quality, efficiency, and repeatability.
• Design, evaluate, and improve fixtures, soft jaws, and workholding solutions to support consistent, high-quality manufacturing.
• Support first article inspections (FAIs), process validation activities, root cause investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with production, quality, purchasing, and sales teams to ensure projects are completed on schedule while meeting customer and regulatory requirements.
• Evaluate automation opportunities, lean manufacturing initiatives, and process improvements that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and increase manufacturing efficiency.
• Assist with quoting new business by estimating machining methods, cycle times, tooling requirements, and manufacturing costs.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with applicable quality systems, customer requirements, and industry standards.

CNC Machining Engineer Qualifications

• 5-8+ years of CNC machining experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent hands-on manufacturing experience.
• Experience developing and improving manufacturing processes for CNC milling and CNC turning operations.
• Strong understanding of blueprint reading, Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T), machining tolerances, and manufacturing documentation.
• Experience selecting tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, machining strategies, and inspection methods for precision machining applications.
• Knowledge of fixture design, machining process development, and manufacturing support from prototype through high-volume production.
• Experience collaborating with CNC programmers to optimize machining processes, improve cycle times, and increase production efficiency.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, project management, and cross-functional communication skills.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software, ERP systems, aerospace or other high-precision manufacturing environments, AS9100/ISO quality systems, and First Article Inspection (FAI) processes is preferred.

Compensation: $32-$65/hr. (DOE)

Benefits
Benefits are available to eligible full-time employees and include coverage for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long term disability, and matching 401k.

Meet VanderHouwen
What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? VanderHouwen does, and we're in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long-term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies' staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals.

VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career!

VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.