Machinist Intern

CNC Machinist Internship – Early Career OpportunityOn-site Palo Alto, CA + Day Shift + $21 to $26/hourBuild Precision Components That Support Critical TechnologiesAt Microwave Power Products (MPP), we manufacture precision electronic components and subsystems used in aerospace, defense, medical, scientific, and communications applications around the world.We are looking for an early career CNC Machinist who is eager to grow their hands-on machining skills in a high-precision manufacturing environment. This is a great opportunity for someone coming out of a machining, manufacturing, or CNC program and wants to learn from experienced machinists while working on real production hardware.If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and learning advanced machining processes, we want to hear from you.Internship SummaryOver the course of approximately 3–6 months, you'll support manufacturing operations by owning a hands-on machining process development project tied directly to MPP's Klystron and Coupled Cavity Tube product lines. You'll work closely with experienced machinists, manufacturing engineers, and production teams to help bring machining capabilities in-house for critical components. This role is designed for someone early in their machining career who is motivated to learn, grow, and develop into a highly skilled machinist.You Will Be Accountable For (Responsibilities)Main Capstone Project — In-House Machining Process DevelopmentYou will learn the manufacturing requirements and specifications for production components and support the setup and operation of CNC machining equipment alongside experienced machinists. You'll assist with CAM programming, workflow development, tooling selection, and machining sequence definition to establish a repeatable process. Work to improve cycle time, consistency, and process flow while supporting inspection and verification of machined parts. Create clear setup instructions and process documentation to enable future production and ensure maintainable manufacturing practices.Machine Shop Collaboration & Technical DevelopmentSupport machinists in day-to-day operation of CNC mills, lathes, and manual machining equipmentWork from engineering drawings, sketches, and written work instructions to execute assigned tasksPerform machining, finishing, and secondary operations while maintaining quality and dimensional standardsUse calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other inspection tools to verify part accuracyAssist with machine setup, tooling changes, and material preparation to support production flowLearn CAM programming fundamentals while observing and contributing to workflow improvementsMaintain safe, organized work practices in a production machining environmentCollaborate with machinists, engineers, and production teams to resolve manufacturing issuesYou Might Be A Good Fit For This Job If You Have (Preferred Qualifications)High School Diploma or GED required; completion of a machining, CNC, or manufacturing program strongly preferredExposure to Haas CNC mills, manual machining, or similar equipment through school, internships, or work experience preferredFamiliarity with Mastercam or similar CAM programming software preferredAbility to read and interpret mechanical drawings and basic GD&T conceptsStrong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and willingness to learn in a hands-on manufacturing environmentAbility to safely lift up to 50 lbs.What We OfferPay Range - $21 - $26 / hourMentorship from experienced machinists and a defined project deliverable to present at the end of your termSelect perks like commuter benefits within the Stanford Research Park, snack subsidy, and 401K.Our Workplace CommitmentWe value the unique and diverse skills, qualities, and backgrounds that each employee brings to MPP, and we respect each employee as an integral member of our growing team. MPP is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all current and prospective employees, as well as to promoting a culture of inclusion and respect for everyone.MPP is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.Why Join MPP?Learn from experienced machinists and manufacturing professionalsWork on real products used in aerospace, defense, and scientific applicationsHands-on growth opportunity in a high-precision manufacturing environmentExposure to CNC machining, manual machining, inspection, and process improvementStable company with long-term growth opportunitiesCollaborative team environment where your work has visible impact