San Diego-based exhibit house is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer/Operator to support the production of custom trade show exhibits, displays, signage, and architectural elements. This position is primarily focused on programming, operating, and maintaining our Laguna SmartShop CNC router. We use VCarve for programming, so direct experience with VCarve and Laguna equipment is highly preferred. You will be responsible for keeping the CNC organized, maintained, properly stocked, and ready to meet production schedules. The ideal candidate understands how to turn shop drawings and design files into efficient, accurate CNC programs while minimizing material waste and maintaining a high standard of quality. This is a hands-on shop position - not a remote role. While CNC programming and production will be your primary responsibility, our team works collaboratively. When CNC demand is lighter, you may assist with fabrication, installations, general shop work, or other production needs. Primary Responsibilities Program and operate a Laguna SmartShop CNC router Prepare, review, and optimize CNC files using VCarve Translate shop drawings and design files into accurate toolpaths Select appropriate tooling, feeds, speeds, and cutting strategies Set up materials, tools, hold-down methods, and machine parameters Monitor CNC production for accuracy, quality, and efficiency Perform routine machine maintenance and keep maintenance records Maintain inventory of router bits, tooling, consumables, and CNC-related supplies Identify worn or damaged tooling and order replacements before they affect production Keep the CNC work area clean, safe, and organized Coordinate with project managers, designers, and fabricators to meet production deadlines Track material usage and reduce waste whenever possible Assist with fabrication, shop production, installations, and miscellaneous tasks as needed Troubleshoot programming, tooling, and machine-operation issues Qualifications Previous experience programming and operating CNC routers Strong understanding of toolpaths, tooling, feeds, speeds, and material behavior Ability to read and interpret shop drawings and production plans Experience working with sheet goods such as plywood, MDF, plastics, and similar materials Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate work Ability to manage priorities and keep production moving in a deadline-driven environment Comfortable performing routine CNC maintenance and managing tooling inventory Working knowledge of common shop tools and safe fabrication practices Ability to lift 50+ pounds as needed Willingness to assist in other areas of production and occasionally travel for installations Positive attitude, clear communication, and a team-first mindset Preferred Experience Proficiency with VCarve or VCarve Pro Experience with a Laguna SmartShop CNC router Experience in exhibit fabrication, cabinetmaking, millwork, sign production, or a related industry Familiarity with custom, one-off production rather than repetitive manufacturing Experience preparing or cleaning up CAD and vector files for CNC production About Our Shop We design and build custom trade show booths, displays, signage, and branded environments. Our work changes constantly, so there are few repetitive or boring days. We value quality craftsmanship, creative problem-solving, personal growth, and people who are willing to help the team wherever needed. Our main build team typically works four 10-hour shifts, providing three-day weekends. We are centrally located in San Diego's Miramar area.

Job type:

Full-time Work location: In person -

Miramar, San Diego Schedule:

Four 10-hour shifts

Travel:

Occasional travel for installations or trade show support may be required To apply, please submit your résumé and briefly describe your CNC programming experience, including the machines, software, and materials you have worked with.

Pay:

$25.00 - $35.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person