JobsMercury Marine

CNC Programmer

Mercury Marine · Fond du Lac, WI

Posted Mar 4, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Sep 20, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

Behavioral

Tell me about a time you took over or inherited a CNC program that was running poorly, maybe too slow or with quality issues, and what you did to fix it.

real experience improving throughput and tooling costs, not just writing new programs from scratch

Tell me about a time you had to explain a machining problem or a program change to someone who wasn't a programmer, like an operator or a maintenance tech.

ability to communicate technical detail clearly across roles, which the posting calls out directly

Describe a situation where you had to hand off a program or a shift note between first and second shift, and something got lost in translation. What happened and what changed after that?

understanding of the cross-shift handoff demands of this specific second-shift role

Tell me about a machine tool or control you had to learn on the job, maybe a Mazak, Okuma, Tsugami, or Fanuc-based system you hadn't used before. How did you get up to speed?

adaptability across the variety of machine tools and controls this shop actually runs

Technical

Walk me through how you'd program a part that needs to run on a mill-turn machine, starting from the engineering drawing or 3D model all the way to a proven-out program.

whether they have a real end-to-end process rather than just knowing isolated CAM commands

How do you decide on speeds and feeds when you're cutting something like aluminum versus a stainless or alloy steel part, and how much do you rely on the machine's capability versus the material?

depth of hands-on machining knowledge versus book knowledge

What's your experience with Mastercam, and can you describe a program where you used parametric or variable-based programming instead of a straight toolpath?

actual depth with the named CAM tool and comfort with macro-level programming, not just menu-driven CAM use

How do you approach fixture or workholding design when you're given a new part with no existing setup?

whether they can advise on fixturing rather than just assuming a fixture is handed to them

Have you ever edited or updated a CAM post processor, or worked with Macro B or similar parametric programming? Walk me through an example.

whether the candidate actually has the preferred deeper programming skill or is just familiar with the terms

How do you read GD&T callouts on a drawing to figure out what actually matters for your program versus what's just informational?

real fluency with GD&T rather than surface familiarity

Situational

Say a part is coming off the machine and the CMM report shows it's out of tolerance on a critical dimension, but the program looks correct on paper. What do you check first?

troubleshooting instincts and whether they know how to separate program error from setup, tooling wear, or fixture issues

You're asked to train an entry-level programmer while also carrying your own program load for the shift. How do you balance that?

willingness and approach to mentoring without dropping their own responsibilities, since the role requires training

If you noticed a tool was wearing faster than expected on a long-running job and nobody had flagged it yet, what would you do before it becomes a scrap problem?

proactive ownership and initiative without being told, which the posting explicitly asks for

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Mercury Marine.

Are you ready for what’s next?   Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond.  Brunswick believes “Next Never Rests™,” and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation.  Innovation is the heart of Brunswick.  See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality: Position Overview : The CNC Programmer  – 2nd Shift will develop, optimize, and support CNC machining processes across a variety of machine tools. This role is responsible for creating efficient CNC programs, selecting tooling, troubleshooting machining issues, and partnering closely with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams. The ideal candidate is process‑oriented, detail‑driven, and passionate about improving throughput, quality, and manufacturability. At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver.  Essential Functions: • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure manufacturability and resolve machining and process challenges. • Determine appropriate speeds, feeds, and cutting strategies to support manufacturing operations. • Maintain machine control parameters and provide technical support to maintenance personnel. • Identify, evaluate, and support the implementation of new tooling applications. • Perform arithmetic calculations and develop parametric/variable‑based programming solutions. • Create CNC programs for multi‑turret lathes, mill‑turn machines, 3‑ and 4‑axis mills, and horizontal machining centers using both drawings and 3D models. • Demonstrate programming processes and train entry‑level programmers. • Maintain accurate, complete, and organized programming documentation. Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way. Required Qualifications:   • Associate’s degree (2‑year technical program) in CNC Programming or a related field • Minimum of 5 years machining experience, including performing set‑ups • Minimum of 2 years CNC programming experience • Ability to develop multistage operations to improve throughput, reduce tooling costs, increase machine utilization, and enhance quality • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy • Ability to communicate complex information clearly and professionally • Knowledge of workholding and ability to advise on fixture design • Experience with both CAD and CAM software • Strong understanding of engineering drawings and GD&T • Ability to read and interpret CMM results • Knowledgeable in various types of measurement devices • Skilled in manual editing and troubleshooting of G‑ and M‑code programs • Eagerness to learn and expand responsibilities • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment • Capable of managing multiple tasks or projects simultaneously • Proven record of ownership, follow‑through, and initiating improvements without being prompted • Ability to train on 1st shift Preferred Qualifications: • Proficiency with Mastercam for CNC program creation • 5+ years programming a variety of CNC machine tools • Shop‑floor support experience, including operator training and troubleshooting • Experience with Mazak, Okuma, Tsugami, Junker, and Fanuc machine tools • Familiarity with machining aluminum, stainless steels, and alloy steels • Ability to select cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and strategies aligned with machine capabilities and materials • Experience with Mazatrol, G-code, CAM software • Experience with Fanuc robots, automation systems, gantry loaders, bar feeders • Participation in continuous improvement initiatives • Working knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles • Experience editing or updating CAM system post processors • Macro B or parametric programming expertise The hiring range for this position is 54,300 – 75,400 annually. The actual base pay offered will vary based on multiple factors including job-related knowledge/skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate’s qualifications and the business context. In addition to base pay, this position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. This position is eligible to participate in Brunswick's comprehensive and high-quality benefits offerings, including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, 401k (up to 4% match), Health Savings Account (with company contribution), well-being program, product purchase discounts and much more. Details about our benefits can be found here. Why Brunswick: Whatever tomorrow brings, we’ll be at the leading edge. As the clear leader in the marine industry, we’re committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people. We offer and encourage growth opportunities within and across our many brands. In addition, we’re proud of being recognized for making a splash with numerous awards ! About Mercury Marine: Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine® is the world’s leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), Mercury provides engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury empowers boaters with products that are easy to use, extremely reliable and backed by the most dedicated customer support in the world. The company’s industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury outboard engines, Mercury MerCruiser® sterndrive and inboard packages, Mercury propellers, Mercury inflatable boats, Mercury SmartCraft® electronics, Land 'N' Sea marine parts distribution and Mercury and Quicksilver® parts and oils. More information is available at MercuryMarine.com. Next is Now!   We value growth and development, recognizing that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. Brunswick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.  Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is key to innovation and inspiration and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.  If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hrsharedservices@brunswick.com  for support.  For more information about EEO laws, - click here Brunswick Corporation participates in E-Verify as part of our commitment to a lawful and transparent hiring process. For additional information click here: https://www.brunswick.com/e-verify . Brunswick and Workday Privacy Policies Brunswick does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors. For help, please contact our support team at: hrsharedservices@brunswick.com or 866-278-6942. All job offers will come to you via the candidate portal you create when applying through a posted position through https:///www.brunswick.com/careers .  If you are ever unsure about what is being required of you during the application process or its source, please contact HR Shared Services at 866-278-6942 or HRSharedServices@brunswick.com . #Brunswick Corporation - Mercury Marine

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