As Team Manager of the CAD/CAM and tooling department at De Rooy, Tim is at the heart of both the technology and the team every day.
> Working in the CAD/CAM department: no two days are the same
> Working on complex CNC projects
> CNC programming: Technology and creativity
> Collaborating within CAD/CAM and production
> Developing your CNC knowledge and CAD/CAM programming skills and continuing to grow in these areas
> Taking pride in complex CNC projects
> Working at De Rooy in the CAD/CAM department
> Ready for the BIG precision work?
Working in the CAD/CAM department: no two days are the same
Within the CAD/CAM department, multiple disciplines work closely together. The CAD/CAM programmers convert technical drawings into CNC programs that control the machines. These are digital instructions that describe, step by step, how a part is machined: which tools are used and which operations are required.
In addition, colleagues from Proxia and the tooling department play an important role. Proxia is the central platform where De Rooy brings together various digital processes. This system was deliberately chosen because it provides greater clarity, efficiency, and a standardized way of working.
Among other things, the Proxia team manages part and tool inventory, ensuring that everyone has access to up-to-date and reliable information. The tooling department then ensures that tools are built according to specifications and are available in a timely manner for production.
From a digital perspective, De Rooy is already well advanced. Many processes are fully digital and are supported daily by Proxia, which provides greater insight, control, and efficiency within the production process.
According to Tim, it is precisely this collaboration between CAD/CAM, Proxia, and tooling that is essential for the successful execution of complex projects.
“We make sure everything is correct before it goes to production. That requires precision, insight, and close collaboration within the team.”
The parts you work on are large and complex.
“Think of projects for sectors such as semiconductors, mining, and the food industry. Parts up to 16,000 mm in size, with high precision down to the micron level.”
It’s precisely that combination that makes the work challenging.
“The best part is when a complex project is spot-on down to the last detail. When you create a (final) product you can truly be proud of.”
Working on complex CNC projects
At De Rooy, you don’t work on standard or simple projects, but on complex, custom CNC machining jobs.
“Every project starts with a kick-off meeting. Then, together, you determine the strategy: how will you make the part, what clamping method will you use, and what tools do you need?”
Sometimes that takes a few days; sometimes several weeks.
“That’s exactly what makes the work interesting. You get the time to really refine a CNC program and optimize the process.”
CNC Programming: Technology and Creativity
The job requires more than just technical knowledge.
“You’re constantly optimizing. What’s the smartest approach? How can you make the process more efficient? That’s what makes the work challenging.”
You’ll also be working with professional CAD/CAM software such as Hypermill.
“But ultimately, the difference lies in the thought process and the choices you make along the way.”
Collaborating within CAD/CAM and production
Within the CAD/CAM department, you’ll work alongside experienced programmers and colleagues in training. Sharing knowledge is key.
“We help each other, share our experience, and are constantly learning. That’s what makes the team strong.”
Collaboration with other departments, including production, work planning, and quality control, is also important.
“From CNC programming to final inspection: you really do it together.”
What sets De Rooy apart:
“Programming is done centrally. This allows us to maintain an overview and prevent errors in production.”
Developing your CNC knowledge and CAD/CAM programming skills and continuing to grow in these areas
Trainees are trained step by step in CAD/CAM programming. If you want to advance internally to become a CAD/CAM programmer, you must have worked as a miller at De Rooy for at least 2 years. Are you applying directly for the position? Then at least 2 years of experience with HyperMill is required.
“You’ll start with smaller CNC parts and work your way up to more complex projects. You’ll receive guidance, but you’ll also be given responsibility.”
According to Tim, the right attitude is important.
“If you’re curious, work with precision, and show initiative, you can grow quickly at De Rooy.”
Taking pride in complex CNC projects
The work produces tangible results, and that makes me proud.
“One project that will always stick with me is a 20-metric-ton piece of aluminum that was ultimately reduced to 4.3 metric tons. Projects like that show what we’re capable of as a team in CNC machining.”
Working at De Rooy in the CAD/CAM Department
Working at De Rooy means working on technology that makes a difference, in an environment where you continue to learn about CNC and CAD/CAM programming.
“Here, you’ll have the opportunity to develop yourself, collaborate with skilled colleagues, and make a real impact on the production of complex parts.”
For anyone who loves technology, CNC, and CAD/CAM programming, the choice is clear, according to Tim:
“If you get energized by complex challenges and creating technical solutions together, you’ll quickly feel at home here.”
Ready for some BIG precision work?
Our modern, expanding fleet of machinery is ready for any challenge, and we are looking for a CAD/CAM programmer who has an eye for detail and isn’t afraid to take on BIG projects.
