Okay, I've searched for full-time CNC Programmer jobs in Santa Clarita, California requiring 5+ years of experience, proficiency in 5 Axis CNC programming, and knowledge of aerospace manufacturing. I have found several positions that match your criteria.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The CNC Programmer role at FMI Aerostructures is fundamentally about ensuring the precise and efficient creation of complex aerospace components through expert development and optimization of CNC programs. This is a highly technical role requiring a deep understanding of machining principles, CAD/CAM software (notably CATIA V5), and materials like titanium, Inconel, and aluminum, which are critical in aerospace manufacturing. Beyond just programming, the role demands the ability to interpret highly detailed engineering drawings with GD&T, plan machining operations strategically, and maintain stringent quality standards via measurements and troubleshooting. Minimal supervision implies a need for autonomy and strong judgement, especially in navigating manufacturing complexities and ensuring parts meet strict tolerances. Success here means producing accurate, reliable programs that reduce material waste, speed up production, and maintain compliance with industry regulations (like ITAR). The role involves collaboration with engineers and production teams to resolve manufacturability challenges, highlighting the importance of cross-functional communication. The physical and environmental demands also suggest the candidate must be resilient and adaptable to a hands-on manufacturing floor setting. Overall, this position is an intersection of technical expertise, precision problem-solving, and coordination to support aerospace manufacturing excellence.

Company Analysis:

FMI Aerostructures operates as a mature, stable, and respected player within the aerospace and defense manufacturing sector, emphasizing quality and reliability. With over 40 years of experience and partnerships with aerospace giants such as Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, the company prioritizes trusted relationships and high standards in producing flight-critical components. This positioning offers the CNC Programmer both the stability of a well-established company and the excitement of contributing to cutting-edge aerospace programs. FMI's culture appears to value expertise, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement, investing in the growth and success of their highly skilled machinists. For a candidate, this means fitting into a disciplined, mission-driven environment that balances tradition with ongoing innovation to meet evolving aerospace demands. The CNC Programmer role is likely nestled within a technical operations team where precision and collaboration with engineering are vital, offering visibility into critical product supply chain functions. Strategically, this is a key hire to maintain and improve the company's manufacturing capabilities amidst growth efforts, reinforcing their competitiveness in producing complex, demanding aerospace parts. Candidates should anticipate expectations to uphold the company’s reputation for quality while adapting to evolving technologies and regulatory standards.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral Questions:
• 1. Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex issue during a CNC machining operation. How did you identify and resolve the problem?
• 2. Describe an instance where you collaborated with engineering or manufacturing teams to improve a process or part design. What was your role and what was the outcome?
• 3. Give an example of a situation where you had to work independently with minimal supervision. How did you manage your tasks and ensure quality?
• 4. Can you share a time when you had to learn a new software or technology quickly in order to meet project requirements? How did you approach it?
• Technical/Role-Specific Questions:
• 5. How do you approach creating a CNC program for a complex 5-axis milling machine, especially when working with high-temperature alloys like Inconel or titanium?
• 6. Explain how you use CATIA V5 in your CNC programming process. What features or capabilities do you find most useful for aerospace component manufacturing?
• 7. Walk me through how you interpret GD&T and engineering drawings to plan your machining operations. How do these tolerances affect your programming decisions?
• 8. How do you ensure your CNC programs optimize machining speeds and feed rates while maintaining quality and tool longevity?
• Situational Questions:
• 9. Imagine a batch of parts comes out of machining but a dimension is consistently out of specification. Walk me through your troubleshooting process.
• 10. If you receive an engineering change late in production that requires immediate updates to CNC programs, how would you prioritize and execute these changes to minimize downtime?
• 11. Suppose you notice a frequent malfunction in a machine tool that delays production. What steps would you take to diagnose and resolve the issue while keeping production on track?
• Company Fit/Motivation Questions:
• 12. What interests you most about working at FMI Aerostructures and contributing to aerospace manufacturing?
• 13. How do your personal work ethic and values align with FMI’s emphasis on quality, precision, and customer-centric partnership?
• 14. Given FMI's focus on collaboration with major aerospace OEMs, how do you see this role supporting high-stakes, mission-critical projects?
• Questions for the Candidate to Ask the Interviewer:
• 15. Can you describe the team structure this role fits into and how the CNC Programmer collaborates with engineering and quality assurance groups?
• 16. What are the most significant challenges FMI faces currently in CNC programming or machining operations that this role would help address?
• 17. How does FMI support professional growth and ongoing training for CNC programmers to stay current with evolving aerospace manufacturing technologies?