Tool Maker/ CNC Machinist

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. We provide an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do. As the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea, and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

About the role

The Tool Maker will be responsible for the programming, setup, and operation of CNC machine tools to produce prototype and production parts in a rapid-paced environment. A broad range of experience with manual and CNC machine tools, shop operations, tooling, materials, and inspection is desired. The successful candidate will have strong interpersonal skills and will coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, and quality control within Unmanned Systems to accomplish program goals.

Responsibilities

• Familiarity with MAZAK Variaxis 1600’s machine
• Proficient in the independent setup and operation of 3-axis or similar commercial-grade CNC milling machines, including fixturing (vise and sub-plate) and tooling
• Proficient in reading and interpreting drawings with a thorough understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing per ANSI Y 14.5
• Proficient in the use of basic inspection equipment to check machined parts per ANSI Y 14.5
• Experience machining a broad range of materials, including aluminum, superalloys, engineering plastics, and composites
• Proficient in the use of manual machine tools (mill, lathe, drill press, band saw) to support CNC machine setup and operation
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow established safety protocols and standard operating procedures
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve technical issues and improve machining processes
• Document job setups and recommend process improvements to reduce setup time and increase repeatability
• Safely complete all physical activities required in a manufacturing environment, including:
  • Move, transport, position, and/or remove 25-50 pounds on a regular basis
  • Move, be stationary, traverse, and reach for prolonged periods of time on a regular basis
  • Seize, grasp, turn, hold, and operate manufacturing tools and equipment
• Willingness and ability to work in a manufacturing environment with regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, dust, fumes, chemicals, and loud noises

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 4 years of prior relevant experience, or 2 years post-Secondary/Associates Degree with 0 to 2 years of prior related experience

Skills

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in CNC machining and MasterCAM (preferred)
• Proficient with the independent setup and operation of 4- and 5-axis CNC milling machines and controls (preferred)
• Proficient with independent programming of 4- and 5-axis CNC machines (preferred)
• Proficient with the independent setup and operation of CNC lathes or turning centers, including conversational programming, tooling, and machine setup (preferred)
• Formal apprenticeship and training (preferred)

Pay

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia (Greater D.C. area) is $30.29–$56.25 per hour. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as the final offer may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location.

Schedule

9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days—totaling 80 hours worked—and have every other Friday off.

Benefits

• Health and disability insurance
• 401(k) match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education assistance
• Parental leave
• Paid time off
• Company-paid holidays

The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.