CNC Programmer

Are you one of those people who look up to the sky every time a plane passes by? Space holds no more secrets for you than it does for science? Environmental and technological challenges are among those you wish to tackle? Come join Sabca and play your own role in the fast‑moving world of aerospace inside a company with more than 100 years of existence. We are experts in designing, manufacturing, maintaining, and upgrading large and complex elements for aircraft and space launchers. In Brussels, we have our Structural and Mechatronics Engineering offices, where all our new programs begin and our workshops are equipped with modern machines that produce complex metallic assemblies for aircraft and space launchers as well as advanced Thrust Vectoring Systems for space launchers.

MISSION

Your main mission as a CNC Programmer I is to design, optimise and validate CNC programs for machine tools (such as machining centres, milling machines, lathes, etc.) for mechatronic and/or aerostructure parts, in accordance with aeronautical production requirements, ensuring precision, quality, performance and adherence to deadlines.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Define or participate in the development of the machining method based on the part definition (operations, choice of machines, tools, cutting tools, etc.).
• Methodically develop NC programmes using CAM software (e.g. CATIA) to ensure that parts comply with the definition plan and meet the required quality standards.
• Use the appropriate tools for the operations and select the cutting conditions and parameters based on the material to be machined and the customer's specifications.
• Provide all inputs and work closely with machining tool designers, taking into account the manufacturing constraints of parts and tools.
• Validate programmes via simulation (e.g. Vericut or machine manufacturer‑specific software) and make any necessary adjustments.
• Create and maintain adjustment sheets and operational documents (sketches, instruction sheets, tool lists, etc.).
• Create new tools in the database.
• Collaborate with workshops and planning to ensure the proper execution of programmes.
• Make changes to processes based on production feedback, quality control reports and SPC data.
• Participate in monitoring CNC programming subcontracting (preparation of inputs, technical support, validation of CNC programmes, etc.).
• Collaborate with other departments (design office, quality and purchasing).
• Participate in estimating recurring and non‑recurring times for machining new parts.
• Participate in continuous improvement: reduction of cycle times, improvement of processes.
• Contribute to the standardisation of processes and anomaly reports.
• Train and assist operators on programmes, settings and best practices.
• Consult SAP to extract information relating to production monitoring and manufacturing ranges.

RESPONSIBLE FOR

• Carrying out rigorous self‑checks to ensure the quality and compliance of your work.
• Transferring your skills and knowledge to new team members and sharing best practices with other programmers to foster an environment of continuous learning and mutual support.

PROFILE

Education/Experience:

• You hold a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electromechanical engineering, aeronautical engineering, or an equivalent field.
• And/or at least 3 years’ experience in an industrial environment in machining production or CNC programming (turning, milling, ideally 5‑axis), ideally in aeronautics or precision mechanics.
• Experience in grinding, electroerosion or assembly is a plus.

SKILLS

Soft skills:

• You are thorough, methodical and analytical.
• You have an eye for detail, good interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team and advise various stakeholders (designers, planners, workshops).

Technical skills:

• You are proficient in G‑code/M‑code (multi‑axis) programming.
• Ability to read and interpret definition plans.
• Ease in reading 2D/3D plans and mechanical diagrams.
• Good understanding of functional dimensioning (GD&T), as well as dimensional and geometric tolerances.
• Knowledge of materials (aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, etc.).
• Knowledge of cutting tools and their conditions of use.
• Proficiency in various machining processes (milling, turning, drilling, grinding, electroerosion, etc.).

Language skills: you are fluent in French or Dutch (spoken and written), and you understand technical English (reading technical documentation and professional exchanges).

IT SKILLS

• You are proficient in machining programming on one or more CAD/CAM software programs (CATIA is a plus).