CNC Machinist & Programmer

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. 

• 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 

• 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.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite