Process Engineer, CNC Automation

Core Responsibilities

• Own CNC process development for patient-specific dental components — from prototype to scaled production.
• Design and validate machining workflows for multi-axis mills (3-, 4-, and 5-axis) that achieve micron-level precision, excellent surface finish, and high throughput.
• Integrate automation systems (robotic loading, part handling, in-line probing, vision inspection) into CNC workflows to achieve 24/7 “lights-out” operation.
• Optimize toolpaths, feeds, speeds, and cutting strategies for complex geometries and challenging materials (zirconia, titanium, PMMA, and wax).
• Develop and document process standards — tool libraries, fixture designs, validation protocols, and SPC control plans — to ensure reproducibility and compliance.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to improve manufacturability of patient-specific geometries while maintaining clinical fidelity.
• Lead root cause analysis and yield improvement across machining cells using structured problem-solving and statistical tools.
• Work cross-functionally with software, automation, and quality teams to build reliable, automated manufacturing lines capable of scaling to tens of thousands of custom parts per day.
• Scout and qualify new technologies — cutting tools, coolant systems, machine architectures, or in-process metrology systems — to push the limits of digital manufacturing.

Must Haves

• 8+ years of experience in micron-level precision CNC machining, automation, or process development, ideally within medical devices, dental, or other patient-specific manufacturing domains.
• Deep technical fluency in multi-axis milling (3-, 4-, and 5-axis) — milling strategy development, toolpath optimization, cutting dynamics, and precision fixturing.
• Experience developing, tuning, or troubleshooting post-processors or control drivers for G- and M-code generation (e.g., Fanuc, Heidenhain, Siemens).
• Proven experience integrating automation or robotics into machining workflows (robot arms, part changers, vision systems, or in-line measurement).
• Strong understanding of statistical process control (SPC), process validation, and manufacturing scalability.
• A systems-thinking approach — understanding how design, manufacturing, and inspection fit together in a digital feedback loop.
• Travel - 30%

Nice to Haves

• Experience with ceramics, CNC machining, spray applications, inkjet printing, etc (CB).
• Previous experience in a factory setting or with manufacturing teams.