Sr. CNC Programmer/Operator

Department: Production & TestLocation: Hawthorne, CaliforniaCompensation: $45.00 - $60.00 / hour Description Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on — rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way. The Sr. CNC Programmer / Operator is a highly experienced machinist responsible for programming, setup, prove-out, and operation of advanced CNC equipment supporting precision aerospace and hardware manufacturing. This role will have a strong emphasis on 5-axis machining and mill-turn applications, including complex multi-sided components, tight-tolerance parts, and challenging materials. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable writing and optimizing CNC programs, setting up machines, selecting tooling, troubleshooting machining issues, and running parts on the floor. This person will serve as a technical resource for the machining team and help establish robust, repeatable, and efficient manufacturing processes. The Sr. CNC Programmer / Operator will work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Production to translate engineering designs into manufacturable hardware while continuously improving machining capability, cycle time, quality, and process reliability. What you'll do: CNC ProgrammingDevelop, modify, prove out, and optimize CNC programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining centers and mill-turn equipmentProgram complex aerospace components involving multi-sided machining, tight tolerances, and complex geometriesDevelop efficient toolpaths that balance cycle time, tool life, surface finish, and dimensional accuracyUtilize CAM software to program complex components and optimize existing toolpathsApply appropriate machining strategies for roughing, semi-finishing, finishing, drilling, tapping, boring, probing, and specialty operationsPerform simulation and post-processing and verify G-code before machine executionMake program adjustments based on machine behavior, inspection results, tooling performance, and operator feedbackEstablish standardized programming practices and reusable machining strategies5-Axis & Mill-Turn MachiningProgram and operate simultaneous 5-axis and 3+2 machining applicationsProgram and operate mill-turn / turning centers, including live tooling and complex rotational featuresDevelop workholding and fixturing approaches for complex partsManage coordinate systems, work offsets, tool length compensation, cutter compensation, probing, and machine kinematicsUnderstand and troubleshoot issues associated with tool orientation, rotary-axis positioning, collision avoidance, and machine simulationPerform first-article and first-run prove-outs of complex programsMachine Setup & OperationSet up CNC machines from drawings, models, work instructions, and manufacturing documentationSelect appropriate cutting tools, holders, workholding, speeds, feeds, and machining parametersLoad and verify programs, tooling, offsets, fixtures, and inspection equipmentOperate CNC equipment safely and efficiently while maintaining tight dimensional controlMonitor machining processes and make real-time adjustments as requiredTroubleshoot machining problems including chatter, tool wear, poor surface finish, dimensional drift, burr formation, and tool breakageEstablish and document repeatable setup procedures What you'll bring: Basic Qualifications5 + years of CNC programming in a manufacturing environment using CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, NX CAM, GibbsCAM, or similar platformsExperience operating and/or programming mill-turn or multi-tasking CNC equipmentExperience independently supporting the machining process from CAD model or engineering drawing through CAM programming, machine setup, prove-out, and completion of finished partsExperience using precision measurement and inspection tools and working to defined quality requirements and specificationsPreferred QualificationsExperience in aerospace, space hardware, automotive, medical device, or another high-precision manufacturing environmentExperience with DMG MORI or similar CNC machining platformsExperience using NX CAMExperience with ERP, MRP, MES, or other digital manufacturing systems and workflowsExperience with fixture design and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principlesExperience supporting prototype development and/or low-volume production environmentsExperience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or similar manufacturing methodologiesExperience troubleshooting and solving complex machining or manufacturing challengesExperience with G-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds and speeds, and work holdingAdditional RequirementsAbility to stand for extended periodsOccasionally lift up to 50 poundsMay require occasional overtime or shift flexibility to support production demands Benefits and Perks Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface explorationEquity ownership in the companyComprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support401(k) plan with company matchFlexible PTO and parental leaveWeekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-siteOnce a month social hour on-site with food and drinks