Lead Machinist

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air‑launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost‑effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security. The lead machinist position will create parts, CNC programmes, tools and fixtures and will work with engineers and shop personnel to ensure the end part meets its intended need. This position will be responsible for establishing and maintaining a machine shop, be a lead for other machinists or welders and provide procurement support of capital equipment for the shop. A majority of the parts will be one‑off prototype parts requiring a high level of detail and quality control and may require rapid response times to support flight operations; always ensuring safe operations. When not performing machine shop work, the position may need to support composite fabrication or system technician work for the aircraft or launch vehicles. The role requires the ability to follow engineering drawings and detailed work instructions with excellent attention to detail in a small team environment. Essential Responsibilities Lead other machinist or welding personnel. Program 5‑Axis CNC machining centre and CNC lathes using Mastercam or NX. Troubleshoot NC programs in real time to help ensure program reliability. Work with tooling vendors to baseline work holding and cutters for production. Machine parts to exact specifications, using a wide array of machine tools such as lathes, mills, waterjets, grinders, and other specialized tools. Collaborate with engineers, shop personnel, and customers to determine the proper methods and sequences of operations. Set up, adjust, operate and check all machine tools to perform precision machining operations. Listen, feel and observe machines in operation to diagnose machine health and malfunctions, and perform maintenance as needed. Apply knowledge of metallurgy, mechanics, shop mathematics, layout, and machining procedures to produce quality parts and maintain machines. Maintain a safe working environment by practising safe machining procedures at all times, including guiding others. Read and interpret engineering orders, blueprints and written work instructions. When not performing machining work, support: Fabrication and lay‑up of components and assemblies using wet lay‑up and pre‑preg lay‑up processes including gap mapping and corner tapes. Troubleshooting, fabrication, installation and maintenance of carrier aircraft systems and components. Other tasks and duties as assigned by management. Qualifications Experience managing people and proven leadership skills. Strong mechanical and metallurgical background. Proficiency in blueprint reading and GD&T. Proficiency in precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gauges and other scales. Proficiency programming CAD/CAM software, and machining centres. Proficiency running manual machines. Capability of manufacturing tight‑tolerance parts. Capability of designing parts and fixtures. Ability to be a team player, and work with engineers and shop personnel. Adapt quickly, change schedule in a fast‑paced environment and work independently without supervision. Plan and execute a sequence of operations. Practice safe operating procedures with all shop equipment. Education & Experience Ten plus years of experience working in the aerospace industry. Experience machining all types of materials including Aluminium, Stainless Steels, Titanium, and Inconel. CAD knowledge of SolidWorks, Catia, and NX. Special Remarks – Work Environment Location: Mojave, CA. Salary: $48.00–$60.00 per hour. Eligible for up to 10 % annual bonus. Must be able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum. Physically able to handle items weighing up to 50 lb. Benefits Paid maternity and parental leave. 50 % company match per dollar contributed into a 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500. Additional benefits may apply per employee group. Equal Employment Opportunity Stratolaunch is an equal‑opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions. #J-18808-Ljbffr