CAD & CAM Specialist

SUMMARY

The Level 4 CAD & CAM Specialist is a senior technical leader responsible for developing and optimizing advanced CNC programs using Siemens NX. This position requires mastery of multi-axis machining, the ability to handle complex geometry, and strong cross-functional collaboration. The Level 4 specialist provides technical leadership, mentors others, and drives improvements that support the company’s operational, quality, and cost objectives.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma required; technical or engineering degree preferred.
• 8+ years CNC programming experience, including 5+ years in advanced Siemens NX CAD/CAM.
• Demonstrated experience in multi-axis milling, turning, and mill/turn programming with challenging geometry.
• Robotic machining or automation experience is a plus.

CORE COMPETENCY ALIGNMENT

1. Technical Expertise

• Demonstrates expert-level proficiency in Siemens NX CAD/CAM, including modeling, drafting, simulation, and multi-axis toolpath creation.
• Creates and optimizes CNC programs for highly complex components with challenging geometry, tight tolerances, and specialized features.
• Leads the development of machining strategies, including tool selection, fixturing, sequencing, speeds, and feeds.
• Performs advanced troubleshooting across machining, geometry creation, and toolpath issues.
• Utilizes simulation/verification tools (Vericut, Powermill, Powershape, UG optimization tools) to ensure program integrity and eliminate machining risks.

2. Problem Solving & Innovation

• Solves complex machining, programming, and design-for-manufacturing challenges using structured analytical methods.
• Identifies opportunities for cycle time reduction, improved tool life, and optimized machining flow.
• Drives continuous improvement projects and provides technical recommendations for equipment or process upgrades.
• Anticipates potential production issues and takes proactive action to prevent downtime.

3. Ownership & Execution

• Ensures programs meet all quality, safety, and regulatory requirements with minimal oversight.
• Oversees program prove-outs and leads corrective actions to achieve stable and repeatable machining processes.
• Maintains master program files with disciplined adherence to revision control and documentation standards.
• Meets deadlines and adapts to shifting production priorities to ensure uninterrupted manufacturing flow.

4. Collaboration & Influence

• Partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Product Development, Operations, and Quality to ensure manufacturability and compliance.
• Leads cross-functional discussions to resolve technical issues and align on machining strategy.
• Provides input on tooling, fixtures, and equipment to support long-term manufacturing capability.
• Influences decision-making by presenting clear technical rationale for process changes or improvements.

5. Communication

• Communicates complex technical information in a clear, concise, and actionable manner—both verbally and in written instructions.
• Prepares detailed work instructions, validation documents, and training materials.
• Ensures transparent communication with production teams, engineers, and leadership on project status and improvement initiatives.

6. Leadership & Mentorship

• Serves as a subject-matter expert (SME) in Siemens NX and advanced CNC programming.
• Coaches and mentors Level 1–3 programmers, machinists, and engineers in best practices, machining strategy, and CAD/CAM techniques.
• Assigns programming tasks to other team members and provides direction and feedback to ensure quality and consistency.
• Supports skill-building across the site and contributes to technical training initiatives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create, optimize, and maintain advanced multi-axis CNC programs using Siemens NX.
• Lead CNC program prove-outs, troubleshoot issues, and implement durable corrective actions.
• Design fixtures, tooling concepts, and machining strategies for complex geometries and challenging materials.
• Develop and maintain work instructions, training materials, and technical process documentation.
• Support validation activities, including operator training, machining trials, and capability studies.
• Manage program directory structures to ensure file integrity, revision control, and regulatory compliance.
• Participate in equipment selection, capability evaluations, and technology or process upgrades.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of CNC controllers such as Siemens, Fanuc, and Makino.
• Apply expertise across multiple equipment platforms, including mills, lathes, mill-turns, and wire EDM systems.

MATHEMATICAL / ANALYTICAL SKILLS

• Strong background in trigonometry, geometry, spatial visualization, and applied machining mathematics.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Standing and walking approximately 50% of the time; bending, squatting, and reaching approximately 10%.
• Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.