> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3442176-pre-production-programmer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3442176-pre-production-programmer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Pre-Production Programmer - **Company:** KG Stevens, Inc - **Location:** Milwaukee, WI, United States - **Salary:** $52,000.0 - $72,800.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, AutoCAD, Programming Tools - **Published:** September 22, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=7f43f9ef1ee93e2d ## About the Role * Prior experience with AutoCAD or comparable CAD software is required, including creating, modifying, and organizing layers; experience in stone fabrication, cabinetry, or another CNC-driven manufacturing environment is a plus. * Familiarity with GalileoCAM or comparable CAM/nesting software used to program CNC, saw, or waterjet equipment. * Working knowledge of .dxf file structures, with the ability to troubleshoot import, formatting, or layer issues between design software and machine-programming software. * Understanding of natural and engineered stone slab characteristics (veining, movement, pattern-matching, seams) sufficient to nest parts for both material yield and finished appearance. * A team-oriented communicator who works well with the Production Manager, Project Coordinators, Sales, and Purchasing to resolve job-specific questions. ## Description * Importing fabrication files (.dxf files) into CAM software, verifying dimensions, cutouts, edge profiles, and fabrication notes against job specifications before releasing files to the floor. * Assign CAD layers in AutoCAD to match the tooling, bit paths, and cutting sequences required by each specific Saw, CNC, and WaterJet machine. * Nest parts onto slab layouts for both natural and engineered stone, maximizing material yield while accounting for veining, pattern movement, seam placement, and defect areas. * Review completed programs for accuracy and completeness before releasing them to operators. * Coordinate with Project Coordinators to resolve questions about job specs, templates, or scheduling conflicts, keeping jobs moving smoothly through pre-production., Accurately creates, edits, and formats CAD files and machine-specific layers, translating customer-approved drawings into production-ready programs. Spatial Reasoning & Material Yield Visualizes how parts fit together on a slab and nests layouts that balance material yield with veining, pattern movement, and seam placement. Organization & Scheduling Manages a programming calendar/queue in the company's project tracking software, sequencing jobs to keep Saw, CNC, and WaterJet operators supplied with ready-to-run files. Communication & Collaboration Works cross-functionally with the Production Manager and Project Coordinators to clarify job specs, resolve discrepancies, and keep pre-production on schedule. ## Related Videos - [Grappling With Clunky Old Software? Start by Understanding What’s Inside!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1189-grappling-with-clunky-old-software-start-by-understanding-what-s-inside) - [WebAssembly Revolution: Elevating JavaScript's Reach and Performance](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1149-webassembly-revolution-elevating-javascript-s-reach-and-performance) - [AI Pair Programming with GitHub Copilot at SAP: Looking Back, Looking Forward!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1546-ai-pair-programming-with-github-copilot-at-sap-looking-back-looking-forward) - [What craftsmanship is all about](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2006-what-craftsmanship-is-all-about) - [Exploring AI: Opportunities and Risks in Development](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1267-exploring-ai-opportunities-and-risks-in-development) - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) ## Related Articles - [Now is the time for industrialized software development](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/601-now-is-the-time-for-industrialized-software-development) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [The Prompt Engineer ✍️](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/216-the-prompt-engineer) - [7 Important Tips That Every Software Developer Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/101-7-important-tips-that-every-software-developer-should-know) - [Can coding be the next blue collar career?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/44-can-coding-be-the-next-blue-collar-career) - [Dev Digest 120 - Apple and peers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/455-dev-digest-120-apple-and-peers)