Job Profile: NCT Programmer

Department: NCT Engineering

Reports To: NCT Engineering Manager

Job Summary

This role ensures that 3D designs are accurately converted into production-ready data for Laser, NCT, and Bending machines, while maintaining a highly accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) and driving prototype development.

Key Responsibilities

Multi-Platform CNC Programming

• Evolve & Maintain: Create, update, and optimize CNC programs for Laser Cutting (Fiber/CO2), Turret Punching (NCT), and CNC Press Brake (Bending).
• Nesting Strategy: Perform multi-part nesting across different fabrication platforms to maximize material yield and machine efficiency.
• Technology Evolution: Regularly review and "evolve" old programs to utilize newer, faster cutting techniques or tooling technologies.

Technical Design & 3D Interpretation

• 3D Drawing Analysis: Interpret complex 3D CAD models (SolidWorks/Autodesk Inventor) and convert them into accurate 2D flat patterns.
• Accurate BOM Management: Generate and verify the Bill of Materials (BOM) to ensure every hardware, bracket, and component is accounted for before mass production.
• Tolerance Calculation: Determine precise bend deductions and K-Factors for various materials and thicknesses to ensure "First-Time-Right" fabrication.

New Product Introduction (NPI) & Prototyping

• Develop Prototypes: Lead the fabrication of "Alpha" and "Beta" prototypes, ensuring they meet customer specifications and quality standards.
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Provide feedback to the design team to simplify fabrication, reduce costs, and eliminate production bottlenecks.
• NPI Documentation: Create setup sheets, tool lists, and bending sequences to be handed over to the production team for mass manufacturing.

Cross-Functional Support

• Fabrication Support: Assist the shop floor in troubleshooting machine errors, programming glitches, or material issues.
• Process Standardization: Develop and maintain a library of standard programs and tooling configurations to ensure consistency.

Technical Requirements

• Experience: 2–5 years in Sheet Metal Fabrication (Laser, NCT, Bending).
• Software Mastery: Expert in CAD/CAM (e.g., Amada AP100/Dr.ABE, Trumpf TruTops, Bystronic BySoft, SolidWorks, or SigmaNEST).
• Fabrication Knowledge: Deep understanding of material properties, welding allowances, and hardware insertion (PEM nuts, standoffs).