CNC Programmer & Machinist (3- Axis & 5-Axis Okuma)

About Us

Space Kinetic is a dual-use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. We are focused on creating an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture and assemble precision components for Space Kinetic’s prototype and flight-testing efforts.
• Generate CAM packages for complex parts using Mastercam or a similar CAM platform.
• Program three-, five-, or seven-axis machining operations.
• Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes while maintaining aerospace tolerances.
• Operate equipment including the Okuma Multus B300 Mill-Turn, Okuma Genos M560V-5AX, Okuma Genos M660, and other Haas, Okuma, and Fadal machines.
• Work directly with the engineering team to support rapid design iterations and prototyping needs.
• Train and mentor other machinists while supporting team and project milestones.

Requirements

• 8+ years of professional machining experience.
• Proficiency with Mastercam or a similar CAM platform.
• Extensive experience programming, setting up, and operating three-axis CNC mills and lathes.
• Experience creating setups for complex parts while maintaining tight aerospace tolerances.
• Experience training and mentoring machinists.
• Demonstrated ability to meet project milestones and work independently to solve problems.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with five-axis CNC mills and mill-turn lathes.
• Experience programming or operating the Okuma Multus B300 Mill-Turn, Okuma Genos M560V-5AX, or Okuma Genos M660.

Location

The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.

Benefits

• Competitive Base Salary + Equity-Based Compensation
• Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure

Pay

The annual base salary for this role ranges from $100,000 USD to $160,000 USD. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate, and internal equity.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C.1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.