H-1B Visa CNC Programmer Jobs
CNC Programmer jobs that sponsor H-1B visas sit at the intersection of advanced manufacturing and immigration complexity. Employers must file a certified LCA and an I-129 petition before you start work. Because the role's specialty occupation status depends on how the employer structures degree-level duties, targeting the right companies from the start matters.
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Get Access To All JobsDESCRIPTION
The CNC Programmer is responsible for developing, testing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs used to manufacture precision components. This position works closely with Engineering, Production, and Quality to create efficient machining processes, select appropriate tooling and work holding, support new product introduction, and continuously improve manufacturing performance. The CNC Programmer also assists with machine setup, program prove-outs, troubleshooting, and process optimization to ensure quality, safety, and production goals are achieved.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate degree in CNC Programming, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred, or equivalent work experience.
- Minimum of three (3) years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated experience programming CNC mills and/or lathes.
- Strong understanding of G-code, M-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds, speeds, and work holding methods.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical specifications.
- Experience setting up, proving out, and troubleshooting CNC machining processes.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and manufacturing problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency using precision measuring instruments and quality inspection techniques.
- Strong computer skills, including manufacturing software and Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidCAM, GibbsCAM, ESPRIT, or similar systems.
- Multi-axis machining experience (4-axis and/or 5-axis).
- Experience programming multiple CNC control platforms such as Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Okuma, Siemens, or Mitsubishi.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Experience supporting prototype development and first-article inspections.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Advanced CNC programming.
- Process development and optimization.
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving.
- Blueprint and GD&T interpretation.
- Technical documentation.
- Planning and organization.
- Attention to detail.
- Innovation and continuous improvement.
- Communication and collaboration.
- Time management.
- Commitment to quality and workplace safety.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
Employees must be able to safely perform the essential functions of this position, which include:
- Standing and walking for extended periods while supporting machine setups and production.
- Frequently lifting and carrying materials, tooling, or components weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and repetitive use of hands and wrists.
- Manual dexterity sufficient to operate CNC controls, computers, hand tools, and precision measuring instruments.
- Ability to work in both an office and manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, metal chips, coolants, lubricants, noise, and varying temperatures.
- Required use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in production areas.
DESCRIPTION
The CNC Programmer is responsible for developing, testing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs used to manufacture precision components. This position works closely with Engineering, Production, and Quality to create efficient machining processes, select appropriate tooling and work holding, support new product introduction, and continuously improve manufacturing performance. The CNC Programmer also assists with machine setup, program prove-outs, troubleshooting, and process optimization to ensure quality, safety, and production goals are achieved.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate degree in CNC Programming, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred, or equivalent work experience.
- Minimum of three (3) years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated experience programming CNC mills and/or lathes.
- Strong understanding of G-code, M-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds, speeds, and work holding methods.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical specifications.
- Experience setting up, proving out, and troubleshooting CNC machining processes.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and manufacturing problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency using precision measuring instruments and quality inspection techniques.
- Strong computer skills, including manufacturing software and Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidCAM, GibbsCAM, ESPRIT, or similar systems.
- Multi-axis machining experience (4-axis and/or 5-axis).
- Experience programming multiple CNC control platforms such as Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, Okuma, Siemens, or Mitsubishi.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Experience supporting prototype development and first-article inspections.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Advanced CNC programming.
- Process development and optimization.
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving.
- Blueprint and GD&T interpretation.
- Technical documentation.
- Planning and organization.
- Attention to detail.
- Innovation and continuous improvement.
- Communication and collaboration.
- Time management.
- Commitment to quality and workplace safety.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
Employees must be able to safely perform the essential functions of this position, which include:
- Standing and walking for extended periods while supporting machine setups and production.
- Frequently lifting and carrying materials, tooling, or components weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and repetitive use of hands and wrists.
- Manual dexterity sufficient to operate CNC controls, computers, hand tools, and precision measuring instruments.
- Ability to work in both an office and manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, metal chips, coolants, lubricants, noise, and varying temperatures.
- Required use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in production areas.
See all 44+ H-1B Visa CNC Programmer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship in CNC Programmer
Verify your SOC code before applying
CNC Programmer roles map to multiple SOC codes depending on duties. Pull the O*NET profile for your target title and confirm the listed tasks match your resume before applying to H-1B sponsors, since mismatched duties weaken the specialty occupation argument in your I-129.
Check prevailing wages by worksite location
Your employer's LCA must list each worksite separately and certify a wage meeting DOL's prevailing level for that location. Use the OFLC Wage Search to look up Level I through Level IV wages for your SOC code before negotiating an offer.
Target employers with degree-structured CNC roles
Find companies that explicitly require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a closely related field for their CNC Programmer postings. Migrate Mate lists employers with verified H-1B LCA filing history so you can filter by role type and location.
Request premium processing before your start date
If your employer files your I-129 close to your intended start date, ask about premium processing through USCIS for a faster adjudication decision. Standard processing can run several months, and manufacturing employers often have fixed production timelines that can't absorb long delays.
Get a separate LCA for each permanent worksite
If you'll work across multiple facilities, each permanent worksite needs its own DOL-certified LCA posted at that location. Confirm with your employer before signing an offer that they're prepared to file multiple LCAs if the role involves split-site manufacturing work.
Document degree-to-role alignment in your application
Because CNC Programmer isn't universally recognized as a specialty occupation, prepare a written explanation connecting your engineering or manufacturing degree coursework to the technical duties in the job description. USCIS may issue an RFE on specialty occupation, and this documentation supports your employer's response.
H-1B Visa CNC Programmer: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a CNC Programmer role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Not automatically. A CNC Programmer position qualifies as a specialty occupation only when the employer structures it to require at least a bachelor's degree in a directly related field such as mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical discipline. Employers who frame the role around general trade skills rather than degree-level engineering duties may face an RFE or denial from USCIS. When evaluating job postings, look for explicit degree requirements in the minimum qualifications section.
What does the LCA process mean for CNC Programmer roles specifically?
Before filing your I-129, your employer must have DOL certify a Labor Condition Application listing your worksite address, the prevailing wage for your SOC code in that location, and your offered wage meeting or exceeding it. If you work at a client site or a facility not listed on the LCA, the employer must file an amended LCA. Manufacturing roles that involve multiple plant locations make LCA compliance more complex than office-based positions.
How long does H-1B status last for a CNC Programmer?
H-1B status is initially granted for up to three years and can be extended once for an additional three years, reaching a six-year maximum under standard rules. If your employer begins a PERM-based green card process early enough, extensions beyond six years may be available under AC21 portability rules. Talk to your employer's immigration counsel about timing if long-term U.S. employment is the goal.
How do I find manufacturing employers who sponsor H-1B visas for CNC roles?
Migrate Mate shows employers with verified H-1B LCA filing history, searchable by role and location, so you can focus your applications on companies that have already demonstrated willingness to sponsor. Cross-referencing DOL disclosure data with job postings that explicitly require an engineering degree helps you avoid applying to companies that treat the CNC Programmer role as a trade position rather than a specialty occupation.
Can my employer change my worksite after my H-1B is approved?
Moving to a new permanent worksite requires your employer to file an amended H-1B petition with USCIS and obtain a newly certified LCA for that location before you start working there. Short-term placements at unlisted worksites may qualify under DOL's short-term placement rules, but those have strict day limits. Confirm the amendment timeline with your employer before agreeing to any facility reassignment.