Sheet Metal Programmer

Summary:

Responsible for translating engineering drawings, take-off sheets, and CAD files into fabrication-ready programs for the department's Amada laser cutting, punch/laser combination, and CNC press brake equipment. Works within Amada's programming and nesting software (4iE Amada / AP100 CAM environment and associated offline programming and nesting tools) to select tooling, sequence operations, and optimize material yield, serving as the technical link between engineering and the shop floor for all sheet metal fabrication programs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Translate mechanical blueprints, take-off sheets, and CAD/DXF files into fabrication-ready programs for CNC laser cutting, punch/laser combination, and press brake equipment.

• Program and maintain cut files, nests, and bend sequences within Amada's CAM/nesting software (4iE Amada, AP100, or equivalent), keeping tooling libraries, material libraries, and machine parameters current.

• Select and assign correct tooling (laser lens/nozzle configuration, punch tools, press brake punches and dies) for each job based on material type, gauge, and part geometry.

• Input precise dimensions, bend allowances, radii, and gauge specifications to ensure first-piece accuracy and minimize rework.

• Execute nesting operations to maximize material yield and minimize scrap across standard and custom sheet sizes.

• Verify material type (e.g., galvanized, galvanneal, stainless steel, aluminum), thickness, and lining/finish requirements before releasing programs to the shop floor.

• Simulate programs and review for collisions, tool interference, and cycle-time efficiency prior to release; troubleshoot and correct program errors identified during setup or first-piece inspection.

• Coordinate with the shop supervisor/foreman and Production Planning to sequence and prioritize the fabrication queue and meet production deadlines.

• Partner with Engineering on drawing questions, design-for-manufacturability feedback, and revision control of released programs.

• Maintain accurate program revision records and documentation in accordance with the department's document control practices.

• Support new equipment and software implementation, including validating post-processors, tooling data, and nesting parameters for newly installed Amada machines.

• Train and provide technical support to machine operators on program intent, tooling changeovers, and in-process adjustments.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives that reduce cycle time, scrap, and tooling changeovers.

• Maintain compliance with ISO standards and applicable company quality requirements.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Proven proficiency with Amada CAM/nesting software (4iE Amada, AP100, or similar) or comparable sheet metal nesting/programming software.

• Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints, structural drawings, and take-off sheets.

• Solid understanding of sheet metal geometry, bend allowances/k-factors, tooling selection, and fabrication standards.

• Working knowledge of CNC laser cutting, punch/laser combination, and press brake processes.

• High attention to detail, strong mathematical skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment.

• 1-3 years of experience entering orders or programming in a sheet metal fabrication shop (HVAC or industrial equipment industry preferred).

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems for job routing and material issue preferred; SAP preferred.

Knowledge of:

• Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

• Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

• Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, drawings, and models.

Education/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree or technical certificate in CAD/CAM, drafting, manufacturing technology, or a related field preferred.

• 1-3 years of sheet metal programming, CAD/CAM, or fabrication data entry experience preferred.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• None required; Amada or equivalent CAM software training/certification preferred.

Language Skills:

• Ability to read and understand English instructions, blueprints, and technical specifications.

Mathematical Skills:

• Must possess, as a minimum, basic Algebra and Geometry, including the ability to calculate bend allowances, angles, and material yield.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear; the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and lift/move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision for reading drawings and computer screens. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work is primarily performed at a computer workstation, with regular time spent on the production floor to verify programs, tooling, and first-piece parts. The manufacturing floor may have higher noise levels, lower air quality, and moving equipment.