CNC Machining Specialist - (Turning Focus)

CNC Machining Specialist - (Turning Focus)

Torrance, California, United States

The CNC Machining Specialist is a hands-on technical expert responsible for developing and executing precision machining strategies with an emphasis on CNC turning operations, while maintaining versatility across milling and multi-axis machining environments. This role supports the production of high-performance components for advanced aerospace, automotive, and next-generation manufacturing systems.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, this individual partners closely with design and manufacturing engineering to translate complex hardware requirements into robust, scalable machining processes. The role is deeply rooted in shop-floor executionowning setups, solving problems in real time, and driving machining excellence from prototype through rate production.

This position plays a critical role in building repeatable, high-quality processes, improving throughput, and enabling rapid iteration in a fast-paced production environment.

The Role

Turning & Machining Execution

• Lead setup, operation, and optimization of CNC turning centers (mill-turn and multi-axis lathes) for precision components.

• Execute machining & grinding across a range of equipment as needed, including 3-axis, 3+2, and 5-axis mills to support production demands.

• Own first article through production runs, ensuring parts meet dimensional, surface finish, and performance requirements.

• Apply advanced understanding of GD&T to validate setups and machining strategies directly on the floor.

Process Development & Optimization

• Define machining strategies across turning and milling operations, including:

• Tooling selection

• Workholding/fixturing concepts

• Program approach and sequencing

• Identify and eliminate inefficiencies in cycle time, tool life, and setup methodology.

• Troubleshoot and resolve machining challenges (chatter, tool wear, thermal distortion, tolerance stack-up, machine limitations).

• Partner with engineering to drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM), especially for turned features and rotational geometries.

Production Ownership & Continuous Improvement

• Take full ownership of machining processes on the floorfrom initial prove-out to stable production.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on:

• Cycle time reduction

• Scrap and rework reduction

• Process capability and repeatability

• Support production ramp by developing scalable processes, standardized tooling, and repeatable setups.

• Act with urgency to resolve blockers impacting delivery schedules and production output.

Quality & Documentation

• Ensure all hardware meets internal and industry quality standards through disciplined process control.

• Develop and maintain:

• Setup sheets

• Work instructions

• Process standards

• Collaborate with inspection teams to validate measurement strategies for tight-tolerance turned features.

• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for non-conformances.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor machinists and operators on turning best practices, machining fundamentals, and advanced techniques.

• Promote strong shop culture centered on accountability, craftsmanship, and continuous learning.

• Provide technical guidance across shifts to ensure consistency and process adherence.

Safety & Operational Excellence

• Champion Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) standards within all machining activities.

• Proactively identify risks in machining operations and implement mitigation strategies.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and high-functioning work environment aligned with high-performance production standards.

Basic Qualifications

• Extensive experience operating CNC turning centers (2-axis, live tooling, mill-turn, or multi-axis lathes).

• Strong cross-functional machining experience including milling (3-axis, 3+2, 5-axis) & grinding.

• Proficiency with Siemens, Fanuc, & Heidenhain controllers.

• Advanced understanding of GD&T and its application in precision machining.

• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimize machining processes across tooling, fixturing, and programming.

• Experience machining complex components in aluminum, steels, titanium, and nickel-based alloys (Inconel).

• Demonstrated experience with advanced setup techniques, including dynamic work offsets and multi-operation setups.

• Hands-on experience taking parts from first article through production.

• Ability to create clear setup documentation and standardized machining processes.

• Experience mentoring or leading other machinists on the shop floor.

• Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with large-format or gantry-style machining systems.

• Experience Machining additively manufactured components or hybrid workflows.

• Strong manual machining skills to support tooling, fixtures, and rework operations.

• Experience in high-rate production or rapid development environments with aggressive timelines.

• Experience in CAD/CAM software/environments (NX CAM preferred).

• Strong understanding of G-code.

• Experience with writing probing routines for on machine part inspections.

Work Environment

• This role operates in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment where priorities can shift rapidly based on engineering changes, supply chain constraints, and program milestones. The environment demands tight cross-functional collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, quality, logistics, and program teams to ensure daily execution aligns with long-term build plans.

• Success in this environment requires hands-on engagement on the shop floor, strong systems knowledge, and the ability to anticipate and resolve scheduling risks before they impact key deliverables.

• The culture emphasizes proactive communication, data-driven decision making, and continuous improvement to meet aggressive program timelines while maintaining high standards for quality, safety, and efficiency.

Compensation

At Divergent, our pay range is based on the level of the job. For this role, we will consider candidates at levels T03 - T05 as evaluated through our interview process.

• Technician / T03: $45.00 - $54.00
• Lead Technician / T04: $52.00 - $63.00
• Senior Technician / T05: $60.00 - $72.00

What We Offer:

• Holistic Compensation Package: Enjoy a world-class compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities, ensuring you're truly valued for your contributions.
• Wellness and Time Off: Embrace a healthy lifestyle with paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown to recharge. We support growing families with paid parental leave, recognizing the importance of bonding time.
• Comprehen