About this role
CNC Machinist – Process Development
Position Information
Position Title: CNC Machinist – Process Development
Department: Research & Development Company: Protocase Inc. Location: Wilmington, North Carolina Work Arrangement: On-site Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent Shift: Day Shift Level: Mid-Level (Expected Experience: 3+ Years)
Compensation: $91,000–$104,000 USD (Base Salary $70,000–$80,000 + $21,000–$24,000 annual target incentive)
Full Transparency: We Work a Little Differently Around Here.
This isn't just another job where you punch in and punch out. We come to work every day because we strive to earn a living in a meaningful way. Too many people exist without finding joy or purpose in their work, and we believe that's just wrong. After all, we spend at least a third of our lives working—so why not create workplaces where people want to come to work in the morning and feel good when they leave at the end of the day?
At Protocase, your ideas don't just matter—they shape our future. We thrive on collaboration and innovation, where every voice is heard, valued, and makes a real impact. Does this sound like something you'd want to be a part of and help grow?
Protocase specializes in custom sheet metal enclosures, panels, and parts for engineers and innovators worldwide, built with unmatched speed and quality. We take the impossible and make it possible for some of the brightest minds on the planet.
Learn more about us: 👉 https://workdifferently.info/
About the Role
You've got the machining experience. You understand how CNC processes work, you know how to troubleshoot when something isn't going right, and you probably have a few ideas about how things could be done better.
But what if you had the opportunity to actually test those ideas, improve machining processes, experiment with new approaches and help shape how things are done?
That's what this role is about.
We’re looking for an experienced, hands-on CNC mill machinist who wants to improve how parts are made. You’ll combine milling, setup and troubleshooting with tooling trials, cycle-time optimization and practical process development. This is not an entry-level machine-operator position. The focus is hands-on machining and improvement, rather than people management or full-time CAM programming.
What You'll Do
• Set up and operate CNC mills to investigate machining problems, run trials and validate improvements, including work involving 5-axis milling.
• Troubleshoot recurring issues and identify root causes. Challenges may include chatter, tool wear, surface-finish problems or dimensional variation.
• Evaluate tooling, cutting parameters and machining approaches to improve quality, cycle times, productivity and consistency.
• Work with programmers to test programming changes and machining strategies, using your working knowledge of G-code and CAM.
• Compare trial results, confirm whether changes solve the problem and help implement improvements with production teams.
• Document successful methods, trial findings and practical machining standards so others can repeat the results.
• Share what you learn with machinists and engineering colleagues, and support the resolution of technical production challenges.
What You Need (Required Qualifications)
Education
• A machining diploma, trade certification, Mechanical Engineering Technology or Manufacturing Technology diploma, or equivalent hands-on experience.
Experience
• At least 3 years of CNC machining experience.
• Experience troubleshooting machining problems and finding practical solutions.
• Experience improving machining processes, tooling, quality, or cycle times.
• Experience working with others to resolve technical issues or improve manufacturing processes.
Technical Skills
• Strong understanding of CNC milling and a hands-on approach to testing ideas and checking results.
• Working knowledge of G-code and CAM software.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• A hands-on approach to testing ideas and validating results.
• Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate with different teams.
Other Requirements
• Must be legally eligible to work in Canada.
• Must be able to work on-site in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
What Would Be an Asset
• 5-axis milling experience is preferred, not required. Experienced 3- and 4-axis mill machinists who meet the core requirements are welcome to apply.
• Experience with CNC lathes or Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).
• Experience in precision manufacturing, aerospace, or medical device manufacturing.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or other continuous improvement methods.
• Experience testing new machining strategies, tooling, or cutting parameters.
• Experience documenting machining trials or process improvements.
About You
• You're a hands-on problem-solver who enjoys figuring out how things work and finding ways to make them better.
• You have a strong background in CNC machining and enjoy tackling challenges that require both technical knowledge and practical thinking.
• You're curious, analytical, and willing to try different approaches to solve problems.
• You take pride in producing quality work, improving processes, and sharing what you learn with others.
• You work well with different teams, communicate your ideas clearly, and enjoy turning successful solutions into better ways of doing things.
• Most importantly, you're someone who takes initiative, thinks beyond simply running a machine, and is always looking for opportunities to improve.
Why Us?
At Protocase, we believe in recognizing and rewarding hard work and dedication.
Our starting annual total compensation package—including base salary and performance incentives—ranges from $91,000–$104,000 USD, depending on experience.
In addition, you can look forward to:
🏆 Training & Growth: Leadership development, executive coaching, and opportunities to influence the strategic direction of two rapidly growing technology companies.
👩⚕️ Comprehensive Health Care: Medical, Dental, Life Insurance, and Group Insurance available after two months of full-time employment.
🏖️ Vacation: Start with two weeks of paid vacation, increasing to three weeks after three years and four weeks after five years.
🏡 Community Discounts: Access exclusive deals at local businesses.
🏋️ Wellness Support: Participate in wellness initiatives and enjoy access to a gym membership.
🎉 Social Events: Join a growing team that values collaboration, celebrates success, and enjoys regular team lunches and company events.
🌊 Wilmington Lifestyle: Embrace coastal living with stunning beaches, a vibrant downtown, rich culture, and a thriving innovation community.
If you're energized by solving complex machining challenges, experimenting with new ideas, and helping shape the future of manufacturing, we'd love to hear from you. $91,000–$104,000 USD