Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic
HERCULES DAVID STRAUSS

HERCULES DAVID STRAUSS

CNC Machinist / Applications Engineer
Vredenburg

Summary

With 21 years of dedicated service in the metal industry, I am an accomplished CNC Production Manufacturing Manager, renowned for my expertise in CNC programming, machining, and production management. My career has been built on a foundation of hands-on experience, where I have honed my skills in scheduling, load allocation, and continuous improvement. I am now seeking a challenging new role where I can effectively leverage these capabilities to drive success and efficiency within a dynamic organization.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience
1997
1997
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Language

Work History

CNC MACHINIST

Euro Moulders
01.2022 - 03.2023
  • Tailored CNC designs for diverse raw material types, optimizing programs for efficiency.
  • Collaborated closely with team members to achieve goals and deliver high-quality work.
  • Conducted simulations and tests to validate completed programs, ensuring accuracy.
  • Applied safety measures for efficient and accurate equipment operations.
  • Proficient in Stainless Steel (316, 304) and Aluminum welding and machining.
  • Enhanced productivity by implementing efficient CNC programming and machine operation techniques.
  • Maintained tight tolerances with design specifications.

Application Engineer

MECAD Systems
01.2019 - 03.2021
  • CNC Programming Expertise: Developed and optimized CNC programs using Mastercam software to enhance machining efficiency, reduce cycle times, and ensure high-precision outputs for complex parts.
  • Technical Support and Training: Provided expert-level technical support to clients and internal teams, delivering customized Mastercam training sessions to improve user proficiency and streamline workflows.
  • Process Optimization: Collaborated with manufacturing teams to design and implement advanced toolpaths, improving production processes, minimizing material waste, and enhancing part quality.
  • Project Management: Led CAM-related projects, coordinating with design and production teams to ensure seamless integration of Mastercam solutions into manufacturing operations, meeting strict deadlines and quality standards.
  • Toolpath Development and Simulation: Created and validated complex 5-axis toolpaths and performed simulations in Mastercam to ensure error-free machining and compliance with engineering specifications.
  • Customer Engagement: Worked closely with clients to understand their machining requirements, offering tailored Mastercam solutions to address specific challenges and improve productivity.
  • Software Customization: Configured and customized Mastercam settings, post-processors, and machine definitions to align with unique client needs and machine capabilities.
  • Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution: Diagnosed and resolved Mastercam-related issues, including toolpath errors and machine compatibility challenges, ensuring minimal downtime and consistent production output.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partnered with CAD designers, machinists, and quality control teams to integrate Mastercam workflows, ensuring alignment with design intent and production goals.
  • Continuous Improvement: Stayed updated on Mastercam software updates and industry trends, implementing best practices to drive innovation and maintain competitive manufacturing processes.

DIRECTOR

HD Engineering
01.2012 - 03.2018
  • Improved operational efficiency, oversaw deliveries, and implemented strategies for high-quality business services.
  • Managed welding and manufacturing of steel gates, fences, aluminum windows, and stacker doors.
  • Established partnerships with vendors and suppliers for effective budget management.
  • Designed and manufactured CNC plasma cutters and routers, specializing in CNC cutting on various materials.
  • Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with high success rate.

CNC MACHINIST

AXHUNT Hydraulics
09.2001 - 02.2011
  • Applied geometric dimension and tolerance standards to maintain structural integrity.
  • Specialized in manufacturing steel components for Goldfields and Anglo American.
  • Developed streamlined tool paths to reduce production time, programmed work paths for mills and lathes.
  • Manually set up machinery, lathes, and grinders.
  • Exceeded production goals consistently by focusing on effective time management strategies while maintaining a strong attention to detail.
  • Programmed CNC machines for optimized performance, leading to reduction in production time.

Education

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA -

Ventersdorp High

APPLICATIONS ENGINEER FOR MASTERCAM - undefined

Mastercam

CNC MILLING AND TURNING TRAINING - undefined

Mazak Training Centre

Skills

Reading and interpreting detailed machine/engineering drawings

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Timeline

CNC MACHINIST

Euro Moulders
01.2022 - 03.2023

Application Engineer

MECAD Systems
01.2019 - 03.2021

DIRECTOR

HD Engineering
01.2012 - 03.2018

CNC MACHINIST

AXHUNT Hydraulics
09.2001 - 02.2011

APPLICATIONS ENGINEER FOR MASTERCAM - undefined

Mastercam

CNC MILLING AND TURNING TRAINING - undefined

Mazak Training Centre

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA -

Ventersdorp High
HERCULES DAVID STRAUSSCNC Machinist / Applications Engineer