Machinist

About the Company

Metrea delivers effects-as-a-service to national security partners across five domains and more than a dozen mission areas, including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special air missions, aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation. We own the entire stack: designing, building, and operating turnkey capabilities that provide decisive, asymmetric advantage against rapidly evolving threats.

Our operating model is built around three interlocking pillars: Support Groups (global shared-services), Core Groups (end-to-end mission capability development), and Market Groups (regional alignment). Headquartered in Washington, DC, with facilities across the United States, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

About the Group

The Aerospace Engineering Group (AERO) provides integrated, end-to-end capability for rapid modification and fielding of mission-specific aircraft. The Airborne Asset Adaptation (A3) Cell manages requirements and external interfaces, while the Aircraft Integration Centre (AIC) and Aerospace Design (ASD) deliver specialized technical execution, including airframe modification and FAA-authorized certification.

About the Role

The Machinist is responsible for producing high-precision aerospace components on multi-axis CNC equipment within a strict AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality management system. This role includes setup, operation, inspection, and full CAM programming of 3-axis and 5-axis parts to exacting aerospace tolerances, ensuring traceability, process control, and compliance with customer and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate 3-axis and 5-axis CNC mills (and lathes as required) to produce complex aerospace components from aluminum, titanium, stainless, Inconel, and other aerospace alloys.
• Create, optimize, and maintain CNC programs using CAM software (e.g., Onshape, Fusion 360) to generate efficient toolpaths, including multi-axis simultaneous machining.
• Interpret complex aerospace blueprints, models, and GD&T callouts; perform first-article inspections and in-process checks using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, and CMM as needed.
• Work strictly within an AS9100 / ISO 9001 Quality Management System: maintain document control, material traceability, process routers, inspection records, non-conformance reports, and continuous-improvement activities.
• Perform machine setups, tool selection/offsetting, fixture design/use, and troubleshooting of programs, tooling, and equipment to achieve tight tolerances and high first-pass yield.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams on process improvements, new part introductions, and corrective actions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company safety and 5S standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Proven ability to produce CAM programs and independently program and operate both 3-axis and 5-axis aerospace parts.
• Hands-on experience machining aerospace components in an AS9100 and/or ISO 9000 Quality Management System.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Minimum 3–5 years of CNC machining experience (aerospace preferred), including budgeting, tooling, fixturing, setup, and operation.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and basic inspection methods.
• Solid understanding of cutting tools, speeds/feeds, work holding, and material properties common to aerospace alloys.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Must be able to pass FAA DOT drug test.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with HAAS mills and equipment.
• Familiarity with CMM programming/operation or advanced inspection techniques.
• Prior work in an FAA-regulated or defense/aerospace manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or continuous-improvement tools.
• CAD experience.
• Demonstrable ability to assess prototype designs for manufacturability and scale.
• Job shop environment background.
• FAI process experience.
• Willingness to operate other CNC equipment occasionally, as needed.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical plan options.
• HSA/FSA accounts.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• 6% employer 401(k) match.
• Fully paid parental leave for all new parents.
• Generous PTO.
• Life and disability insurance (long-term and short-term).
• AD&D coverage.
• Pet insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Subsidized gym membership/plans through Wellhub.

Pay

Pay Range: $25 USD - $35 USD per hour. This is a non-exempt, full-time position with typical working hours from Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Hours may vary based on department and business needs, and overtime may be required with approval.

Work Environment

This role operates in a hangar or flight line environment, with exposure to varying weather conditions, loud noise, and aircraft systems. The position may require standing, bending, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Strict adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.

Company Values

Metrea’s core value is Rooted in Humility, with four cornerstone attributes: Entrepreneurial, Systematic, Discerning, and Over-Deliver. These principles form the "Teammate Firmware," guiding collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.