Numerical Control Programmer Jobs for OPT Students
Numerical Control Programmer jobs on OPT are a strong fit for F-1 students with degrees in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or computer science. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers typically require CAD/CAM proficiency and hands-on CNC programming experience.
See All Numerical Control Programmer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 7+ Numerical Control Programmer jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all 7+ Numerical Control Programmer jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Numerical Control Programmer roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Sterling Engineering is partnering with a long-standing, family-owned precision manufacturing company to hire a CNC programmer. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working on the shop floor—developing programs, proving out parts, and optimizing processes.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Program, modify, and optimize CNC machining processes using ESPRIT CAM for mills, lathes, mill-turn, and multi-axis equipment
- Perform machine setup, prove-outs, and validation of CNC programs on the shop floor
- Develop efficient toolpaths and machining strategies based on engineering drawings and GD&T
- Create and document manufacturing processes from print to production release
- Develop setup sheets, work instructions, tooling requirements, and inspection criteria
- Evaluate part designs and provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) recommendations
- Partner with operators, tooling, quality, and production teams to ensure process stability and part quality
- Troubleshoot programming, tooling, fixturing, and machining issues in real-time
- Support training and mentorship of operators and junior programmers
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong hands-on CNC programming experience
- Experience programming mills, lathes, mill-turn, or multi-axis machines
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T
- Experience working in a production machining environment
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate’s degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Experience with screw machines, robotics, or automated transfer equipment
- Familiarity with Lean manufacturing, SPC, or FMEA
- Experience working within an ISO 9001 environment
- Experience supporting new product introductions and production ramp-ups
INTRODUCTION
Sterling Engineering is partnering with a long-standing, family-owned precision manufacturing company to hire a CNC programmer. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working on the shop floor—developing programs, proving out parts, and optimizing processes.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Program, modify, and optimize CNC machining processes using ESPRIT CAM for mills, lathes, mill-turn, and multi-axis equipment
- Perform machine setup, prove-outs, and validation of CNC programs on the shop floor
- Develop efficient toolpaths and machining strategies based on engineering drawings and GD&T
- Create and document manufacturing processes from print to production release
- Develop setup sheets, work instructions, tooling requirements, and inspection criteria
- Evaluate part designs and provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) recommendations
- Partner with operators, tooling, quality, and production teams to ensure process stability and part quality
- Troubleshoot programming, tooling, fixturing, and machining issues in real-time
- Support training and mentorship of operators and junior programmers
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong hands-on CNC programming experience
- Experience programming mills, lathes, mill-turn, or multi-axis machines
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T
- Experience working in a production machining environment
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate’s degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Experience with screw machines, robotics, or automated transfer equipment
- Familiarity with Lean manufacturing, SPC, or FMEA
- Experience working within an ISO 9001 environment
- Experience supporting new product introductions and production ramp-ups
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in Numerical Control Programmer
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Numerical Control Programmer roles typically fall under STEM OPT eligibility, but your specific degree program must appear on the STEM Designated Degree Program list. Confirm this with your DSO before applying to maximize your 36-month authorization window.
Highlight CAD/CAM software proficiency upfront
Employers screening OPT candidates want to see specific software experience immediately. List Mastercam, Siemens NX, or Fusion 360 in your resume header skills section so hiring managers can confirm technical fit before reviewing your authorization status.
Target manufacturers with established OPT hiring programs
Larger aerospace, automotive, and precision manufacturing companies file E-Verify regularly and have HR teams familiar with OPT paperwork. Smaller job shops may be willing but unfamiliar with the process, so expect to explain your authorization clearly.
Apply before your OPT start date when possible
Hiring timelines for CNC programming roles can run four to eight weeks once interviews begin. Starting your job search 60 to 90 days before your OPT authorization begins gives employers comfortable lead time and avoids gaps in your work authorization status.
Prepare a one-page OPT explainer for employers
Many small and mid-sized manufacturers have never hired an OPT worker. A concise document explaining your authorization period, E-Verify requirements, and extension timeline removes hesitation and positions you as organized and low-friction to onboard.
Demonstrate hands-on shop floor experience in your application
Numerical Control Programmer roles bridge design and machining. Candidates who can show they have operated CNC machines, not just programmed them in software, stand out strongly. Include any lab, co-op, or internship hours spent on the shop floor.
Numerical Control Programmer jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Numerical Control Programmer JobsSee all 7+ Numerical Control Programmer jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Numerical Control Programmer roles.
Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Do Numerical Control Programmer jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Numerical Control Programmer positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension when your degree is in engineering, computer science, or a related STEM field listed on the DHS Designated Degree Program list. The employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm your degree's eligibility with your DSO before applying, as the field of study on your transcript determines eligibility, not the job title itself.
How do OPT students find Numerical Control Programmer employers who sponsor or are comfortable with work authorization?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for OPT-friendly employers, so you can focus on companies already familiar with work authorization rather than cold-pitching employers who may be unfamiliar with the process. Aerospace, automotive, and defense manufacturing companies file E-Verify routinely and tend to be the most straightforward to work with as an OPT student.
What happens to my OPT status if my Numerical Control Programmer contract ends early?
If your employment ends before your OPT authorization expires, you enter a 60-day grace period. You can use this time to find a new qualifying position. Numerical Control Programmer experience transfers well across manufacturing sectors, which gives you flexibility when searching. Report any employment changes to your DSO promptly to keep your SEVIS record accurate.
Can I work as a freelance or contract Numerical Control Programmer on OPT?
Yes, self-employment is permitted on OPT, but the rules are strict. You must be actively working in your field of study, demonstrate that the work is directly related to your degree, and document your activity carefully for your DSO. Short-term contracts with manufacturing firms are generally acceptable, but you should avoid arrangements where you lack a defined employer relationship for extended periods.
What degree backgrounds do employers expect for Numerical Control Programmer OPT hires?
Employers most commonly hire OPT students with degrees in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial technology, or computer science with a manufacturing focus. Some companies also consider materials science or mechatronics graduates. Your coursework in CNC machining, CAD/CAM systems, or manufacturing processes is often more important than your exact degree title during initial screening.
See which Numerical Control Programmer employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
Search Numerical Control Programmer Jobs