CMM Programmer
Posted 2 Oct 2026
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Expected experience
- 3+ yrs
- Management level
- People management
- Employment
- On-Site
No salary listed for this role.
Field of studyManufacturing, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Metrology (or related)
Study levelCertificate or higher
Job Summary
The CMM / 3D Scan Programmer creates, validates, and maintains dimensional inspection programs for tactile CMMs and non-contact 3D scanning systems. This role is the plant's technical owner of inspection programs and equipment health: interpreting GD&T on customer drawings, building robust Polyworks, PC-DMIS and/or ZEISS Calypso programs, recovering equipment quickly when faults occur, and diagnosing whether a problem lies in the part, the fixture, the program, or the machine. The programmer works closely with Engineering, Production, and the Quality team to deliver accurate, timely dimensional data for production, launches, PPAP, and problem solving.
Responsibility
Responsible for the following:
Inspection Programming
-
Develop, debug, and optimize CMM programs in PC-DMIS and/or ZEISS Calypso from 2D drawings and 3D CAD models for as-cast and machined aluminum components.
-
Build alignments that correctly reflect the drawing's datum reference frame, including datum targets and datum schemes typical of castings.
-
Develop and maintain 3D scan inspection routines (surface comparison, sections, feature extraction) using structured-light scanning software such as ZEISS INSPECT / GOM, PolyWorks, or equivalent.
-
Select appropriate probe and stylus configurations, sampling strategies, filtering, and scan settings to balance measurement accuracy against cycle time.
-
Manage program revisions under document control and update programs promptly when drawings, CAD models, or customer requirements change.
-
Design or specify inspection fixtures and holding methods in collaboration with Engineering and validate fixtures before release.
GD&T and Drawing Interpretation
-
Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and ISO GPS (ISO 1101 and related standards) as required by each customer.
-
Translate feature control frames, material condition modifiers, and datum precedence into correct measurement and evaluation methods.
-
Support drawing reviews and PPAP feasibility by identifying characteristics that are ambiguous, unmeasurable, or at risk with the planned inspection method.
-
Explain GD&T results clearly to engineers, operators, and customer representatives.
Equipment Recovery and Troubleshooting