Lead Design CNC Programmer/Operator

About Lucid

At Lucid, we are creating exceptional mobility experiences through innovation to drive the world forward. Built on Lucid’s proprietary technology and software-defined vehicle architecture, our award-winning vehicles bring our “Compromise Nothing™” approach to the global automotive market. That means refusing to choose between performance and sustainability, design and engineering, ambition and integrity. In Lucid Air and Lucid Gravity, we have designed and built vehicles that have redefined their segments, combining exceptional range, performance, design, and expansive space in a single experience.

We achieve this through deep vertical integration, with design, engineering, and production happening in-house across our global offices and manufacturing facilities. Our teams come from industries around the world, united by a shared commitment to excellence. By refusing to settle, you can help redefine what’s possible and shape the future of mobility.

Responsibilities

CNC Programming & Machining

• Develop, optimize, and verify CNC programs for complex 3-axis and 5-axis machining applications.
• Setup, operate, and troubleshoot large-format CNC routers and gantry mills.
• Select and implement machining strategies, tooling, and work holding solutions that deliver high-quality
• prototype parts and properties.
• Evaluate CAD data and identify potential manufacturing concerns before machining begins.
• Maintain organized PowerMill projects, CNC programs, fixture models, and related manufacturing data.

Prototype Manufacturing Support

• Manufacture prototype components supporting vehicle development programs, including design bucks, ergonomic properties, aerodynamic models, composite tooling, fabricated structures, clay studio assets, and show car components.
• Modify CAD geometry and create fixtures, support structures, and work holding solutions when required.
• Collaborate closely with Design, Engineering, Modeling, and Fabrication teams to support successful project execution.
• Serve as a technical resource for CNC programmers and operators.
• Take ownership of the department's most technically challenging machining projects.
• Support troubleshooting efforts across programming, machine operation, tooling, and manufacturing
• Lead by example through technical excellence, craftsmanship, organization, and accountability.

Equipment & Shop Support

• Monitor machine performance and operating conditions to ensure reliable operation.
• Perform routine maintenance and support preventative maintenance activities.

Requirements

• Strong experience programming and operating both 3-axis and 5-axis CNC equipment.
• Proven problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred

• Experience within an automotive design studio, prototype manufacturing environment, model shop, motorsports, aerospace, or similar low-volume manufacturing environment
• Experience programming and operating large-format CNC machinery.
• Experience machining large-format components and vehicle-scale properties.
• Familiarity with Heidenhain, Fagor, and Mitsubishi control systems.
• Experience designing fixtures, supports, and manufacturing aids.
• Experience machining polyurethane modeling board, aluminum, carbon fiber composites and mold tooling, plastics, and
• wood.

Success Measures

• Delivery of high-quality prototype components and vehicle properties.
• Successful execution of complex machining projects from programming through final completion.
• Safe and reliable operation of CNC equipment.

Role Overview

The Lead Design CNC Programmer/Operator is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC equipment in support of Design Studio vehicle properties, prototype models, and development programs.

Working closely with Design, Engineering, Modelers, and Fabrication teams, this role supports the manufacture of a diverse range of prototype components, from small development parts to full-scale vehicle bucks, aerodynamic models, composite tooling, fabricated structures, and show car assets.

The ideal candidate combines strong CNC programming and machining expertise with exceptional organization, problem-solving ability, and adaptability. Success in this position requires the ability to work across a broad range of materials, project types, and component scales while consistently delivering high-quality work in a fast-paced prototype environment.

Key Responsibilities

Interpret CAD models, design data, and engineering information to develop practical manufacturing solutions.

Technical Excellence & Support

• Provide guidance on machining strategies, tooling, fixturing, and manufacturing processes.
• methods.
• Identify opportunities to improve machine performance, tooling, machining processes, and overall shop capability.
• Support a safe, clean, and organized working environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC programming and machining experience.
• Proficiency with Autodesk PowerMill and working knowledge of CATIA and/or Fusion 360.
• Experience working directly from CAD models and digital design data.
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling selection, work holding, and manufacturing processes.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently within a fast-paced prototype environment.