Senior Machinist

Senior Machinist

FormFactor is seeking a highly skilled Senior Machinist to support the development and manufacture of precision components and tooling used in advanced technology applications. This role requires extensive expertise in both manual and CNC machining, with a strong foundation in prototype development, process optimization, and batch manufacturing. The Senior Machinist serves as a technical expert within the machine shop, collaborating closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that support the company's continued growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Set up, program, operate, and troubleshoot CNC milling machines, lathes, and machining centers to produce complex precision components.

Perform manual machining operations using conventional mills, lathes, and other machine shop equipment.

Develop and optimize CNC programs using CAD/CAM software to improve quality, efficiency, and repeatability.

Manufacture prototype and production parts from engineering drawings, models, and specifications.

Interpret complex mechanical drawings, blueprints, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) requirements.

Select appropriate tooling, workholding methods, cutting parameters, and machining strategies based on material properties and design requirements.

Perform dimensional inspections using precision measuring instruments, gauges, and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs).

Verify product quality and ensure compliance with engineering and customer specifications.

Recommend process improvements that increase productivity, reduce setup times, and improve overall manufacturing performance.

Collaborate effectively with engineering, scientific, assembly, quality, and manufacturing teams to resolve technical challenges and support product development.

Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment in accordance with company policies and procedures.

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced machinists and machine shop personnel.

Preferred Experience and Qualifications:

Proven experience supporting both prototype development and production manufacturing environments.

Strong understanding of GD&T principles and interpretation of engineering drawings.

Demonstrated experience with manual inspection methods and precision measurement tools.

Expertise in CNC milling and turning operations.

Working knowledge of machining centers; familiarity with HAAS controls is highly desirable.

Strong understanding of machining practices, including speeds, feeds, tooling selection, and material properties.

Proficiency using precision measurement equipment and inspection techniques.

Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.

Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and quality.

Experience operating and programming Haas CNC machines.

Extensive prototype machining experience in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.

Experience with GibbsCAM programming software.

Machining trade school certificate, apprenticeship completion, or related technical coursework.

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) programming and inspection experience.

Strong mathematics and trigonometry skills applicable to machining and manufacturing processes.

Skills:

CNC Machining Operation, Communication, Cross-Departmental Collaboration, Inspection Techniques, Machine Maintenance, Machining Lathe, Manual Machining, Microsoft Office, Prototype Machining

Education & Experience:

Minimum of 6+ years of related experience | Required

Pay Range:

$31.55 - $41.42

This role in Boulder, Colorado pays between $31.55 and $41.42 per hour, depending on your experience, skills, and background. Pay may vary in other locations. We offer a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off. You'll also be eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and flexible spending or savings accounts.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

FormFactor is an equal opportunity employer. FormFactor complies with all national, state, and local laws that seek to promote equal opportunities for any applicant or employee without regard to age, race, color, gender, gender identity/expression, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, disability, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, military service, or any other legally protected characteristics. These protections apply to all aspects of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, training, promotions, and compensation.