CNC Machinist & Programmer

YOUR MISSION

As a CNC Machinist in Long Beach, you will be foundational to how we build hardware that operates in the most contested environment humanity has ever faced — space. In this role, you will own standing up and expanding our machine shop, selecting tooling, and establishing the processes and standards that will define our machining culture. You will work shoulder-to-shoulder with our engineering team to push the boundaries of what’s manufacturable, with a heavy emphasis on R&D prototyping and rapid iteration. If you’re someone who thrives in the earliest stages of building something consequential, this is your seat.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Machining & Fabrication: Set up, program, and operate 5-axis CNC mills, lathes, and other CNC machines to produce precision aerospace components from engineering drawings and models in a fast-paced R&D environment.
• CAM Programming: Develop and optimize toolpaths using Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill for complex multi-axis parts. Own the full programming workflow from model import to proven first article.
• R&D Prototyping: Partner directly with engineers to rapidly iterate on prototype hardware — from concept to hardware, bringing a machinist's eye to early-stage designs and help engineering understand what's possible and what's not.
• Machine Shop Build-Out: Play a lead role in laying out and standing up the machine shop — specifying and purchasing machines, tooling, fixturing, metrology equipment, and consumables to support current and future production needs.
• DFM Collaboration: Provide deep design-for-manufacturability input on new parts and assemblies. Engage early in the design cycle to reduce cost, lead time, and complexity without sacrificing performance.
• Quality & Standards: Maintain tight tolerances and impeccable workmanship standards. Inspect own work using metrology tools (calipers, micrometers, CMM, etc.) and ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with structures, propulsion, avionics, and test teams to ensure machined components integrate cleanly into the broader vehicle architecture.

QUALIFICATIONS

• CNC machining experience, with demonstrated proficiency in 5-axis milling and complex multi-axis programming
• Strong CAM experience in Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill — you write your own programs and know why each toolpath decision matters
• Proven track record in an R&D or prototype-heavy environment where no two parts are the same
• Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D CAD models (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)
• Experience with a broad range of materials including aluminum alloys, titanium, stainless steel, and advanced composites
• Strong metrology skills and familiarity with inspection equipment and methods
• Able to work autonomously and make sound decisions with minimal supervision
• Strong written and verbal communication skills — you can clearly articulate a DFM concern or a tooling recommendation to an engineer who has never touched a machine

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or space hardware manufacturing
• Prior involvement in machine shop build-outs, equipment procurement, or facility stand-up
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and 5S principles
• Experience with turning, EDM, surface grinding, or other complementary processes
• Exposure to cleanroom protocols, FOD/ESD awareness, and aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR)
• Background in fixture design and development for complex geometries

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Machinist Level 1: $32-50/hr
• Machinist Level 2: $40-60/hr
• Machinist Level 3: $45-75/hr
• Senior Machinist: $55-90/hr
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work Location—Successful candidates will be located near Long Beach, CA.
• Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
• Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.