CNC Programmer/machinist

Overview Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first generational leap in rocket engine technology since Apollo, our proprietary Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine and Venus Detonation Ramjets deliver historic efficiency and performance across aerospace applications. We are building the next generation of propulsion platforms that enable breakthrough capabilities in space, defense, and commercial high-speed flight. This is a hands‑on, high‑impact opportunity for an experienced CNC Programmer / Machinist who wants to build complex, precision hardware in a fast‑moving, engineering‑driven environment. You'll take ownership of advanced multi‑axis machining work, turning challenging designs into high‑quality components. Beyond running machines, you'll partner closely with engineering, influence manufacturing strategy, and help elevate shop standards in quality, safety, and performance. If you're motivated by technical challenge, tight tolerances, and meaningful hardware, this role offers real ownership and growth. Responsibilities Program and support high‑precision, quick‑turn projects, as well as small‑batch production jobs, with the same attention to detail. Look critically at all part processes to drive efficiency and improve quality by interfacing with engineers, machinists, and designers. Complete machining operations from blueprints, drawings, models, and verbal instructions. Plan, program, set up, and help prove out parts on our 3‑, 4‑, and 5‑axis NC machines. Give feedback to engineering, including early process reviews, and receive feedback from customers to improve quality at the machine. Print‑to‑part manufacture of precision tooling and rocket hardware. Develop processes and procedures to maintain our manufacturing excellence. Be a value‑added voice in decisions related to tooling and machine choice. Bring solutions to hard problems by communicating clearly and conscientiously. Provide a critical eye to every detail to ensure success of hardware. Use your experience to set the standards in operations and maintenance, while working smart to maintain a healthy and safe environment. Collaborate closely with a tight‑knit team of driven industry experts, united by a shared mission and exceptional teamwork. Grow your leadership and teamwork skills. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. 5+ years of CNC programming experience, including 5+ years hands‑on experience setting up and operating 5‑axis mills or lathes. Experience or exposure to multiple controls including Fanuc, HAAS, and Okuma. Proficiency with CATIA (DELMIA) programming suite; Mastercam experience is a plus. Ability to read and troubleshoot G‑code before it gets to the shop floor and in process at the machine. Comprehensive understanding of GD&T and blueprint reading skills. Proficiency with metrology tools such as dial indicators, bore gauges, micrometers, calipers, and other common inspection tools. Deep knowledge of cutting tools, a strong basis for speed and feed selections across material groups/types, and a desire to expand your knowledge base. Ability to work directly with designers in an R&D environment. Excellent communication and written skills. Excellent coordination and mechanical skills. Computer proficiency. Proficiency in shop math. Willingness to work in a dynamic prototype/R&D environment. Ability to lift 50 pounds. What Will Set You Apart Experience designing in Siemens NX and CATIA. Location On‑site in Houston, TX. Benefits 401(k) plan. Stock options. Medical benefits, including dental and vision. Flex‑Friday flexible schedule. Unlimited paid time off. Professional development opportunities. Legal Requirements This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be able to meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State). You can learn more about ITAR here. Equal Opportunity Employer Venus Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation, please email View email address on click.appcast.io or call 203-0027. This email and phone number were created exclusively to assist job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Messages or any other purposes, such as following up on an application, third party staffing agencies, website technical issues, or any other issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response. Messages will be returned within five business days. For additional information about our Equal Opportunity Employment Policy, please visit our EEOP page. #J-18808-Ljbffr