Job Description

Wire EDM Programming & Cell Lead

Location: Mendota Heights, MN
Department: Engineering
Reporting To: Tool & Die Manager
Type: Full-time

It’s the start of your shift in the Wire Room. You review the job queue, load the day’s programs, and decide which parts will run on which machine. A complex tool component needs a tight tolerance—so you fine-tune the setup, validate the path in CAD/CAM, and get the cut underway. While it runs, you mentor a junior operator on inspecting a finished part with micrometers and calipers. A wire break pops up; you diagnose, adjust parameters, and keep uptime high. By midday, you’ve updated inventory for wire and tooling, collaborated with engineering to improve a process, and documented setups for repeatability. Before you leave, you clean and calibrate, ensuring every EDM is ready for tomorrow.

What You’ll Tackle

• Program Wire EDM equipment using CAD/CAM, translate blueprints into efficient toolpaths, and configure precise setups.
• Operate and monitor machines to produce accurate components from metals, alloys, and composite materials.
• Troubleshoot issues like wire breaks and tolerance drift to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Prioritize workflow and act as project lead for assigned jobs within the Wire Room.
• Inspect part quality using micrometers, calipers, and other metrology tools; verify adherence to specifications.
• Perform routine maintenance; keep machines clean, calibrated, and running at peak capability.
• Select, track, and maintain wire and tooling; manage consumable inventory.
• Partner with engineering and production on design-for-manufacture and process improvements.
• Train and coach junior operators to elevate team capabilities.
• Follow safety standards and maintain thorough records of setups, inspections, and maintenance activities.

What You Bring

• Hands-on expertise in Wire EDM programming, setup, and operation.
• Fluency in reading blueprints and technical drawings.
• Solid math foundation (geometry and trigonometry) for precision machining.
• Analytical, problem-solving approach to machine and tooling challenges.
• Meticulous attention to detail with strong quality focus.
• Clear communicator who collaborates well across teams.
• Commitment to safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Background

• Proficiency with CAD/CAM for Wire EDM.
• Proven Wire EDM experience in production or a toolroom.
• Understanding of material behavior, wire handling, and EDM optimization.
• Experience mentoring or training junior operators.

Physical Demands

• Stand, walk, and move frequently through the shift.
• Regularly lift up to 25 lbs; frequently up to 50 lbs; occasionally more than 100 lbs.
• Strong vision, dexterity, and endurance for detailed, repetitive work.
• Ability to stay focused during long runs and monitor multiple machines.

Why You’ll Love It Here

Join a high-performance team where precision fuels innovation. You’ll lead meaningful projects, mentor teammates, and deepen your expertise in cutting-edge EDM technology—directly impacting tooling, production, and engineering outcomes.

Technical Proficiency

• CNC Programming
• G-Code
• Machine Setups for Production Runs

Equipment You’ll Run

• EDM Machine (Wire) (Fanuc)

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