CNC Machinist

CNC Machinist - Advanced Composites and Precision Tooling

Hawthorne, California | On-site

Opportunity Summary

A fast-growing defense and advanced manufacturing startup is developing next-generation composite manufacturing technologies designed to improve production speed, scalability, and performance for aerospace and defense applications. The team is focused on building high-strength composite structures and precision-engineered hardware that support critical systems across propulsion, unmanned systems, and high-temperature industrial applications. This role is centered around hands-on CNC machining, tooling development, and prototype manufacturing within a highly technical production environment. The machinist will own machining operations from programming through final part production while working closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to support rapid iteration, tooling optimization, and scalable production methods. The position is ideal for someone who enjoys operating directly on the shop floor while contributing to high-precision hardware development.

About Us

We are an early-stage engineering and manufacturing company focused on advancing high-performance composite production for aerospace and defense systems. Our team works across machining, tooling, materials, manufacturing process development, and hardware integration to build production-capable systems that support demanding real-world environments. Team members operate with high ownership, close collaboration, and direct involvement in hardware execution.

Job Duties

• Program, set up, and operate CNC machining equipment for prototype and production tooling
• Manufacture precision molds, fixtures, and machined components under aggressive development timelines
• Manage machining operations from CAM programming through setup, operation, and final part completion
• Work closely with engineering teams to provide manufacturing feedback and improve part producibility
• Perform tooling selection, setup optimization, and machining process refinement for both composite and metallic materials
• Support tooling organization, inventory management, and machine maintenance activities
• Develop fixturing approaches and machining workflows to improve repeatability and throughput
• Troubleshoot machining issues and adjust setups, tooling, and machining parameters as needed
• Communicate project status, schedule concerns, and manufacturing challenges clearly across the team
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional machine shop environment

Qualifications

• 2+ years of CNC machining experience
• Experience operating CNC mills and CNC lathes in a prototype or production environment
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software such as Fusion 360, Onshape, Mastercam, or similar platforms
• Ability to read technical drawings, GD&T, and CAD models
• Hands-on experience with machine setup, tooling selection, offsets, and machining optimization
• Strong attention to detail and ability to hold tight tolerances
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced hardware development environment
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• U.S. Person status required in accordance with export control regulations

Preferred Experience

• Experience machining molds, tooling, or precision surfacing components
• Background supporting composite manufacturing or aerospace hardware production
• Familiarity with fixture design and shop workflow standardization
• Experience working in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments
• Exposure to aerospace, defense, propulsion, or advanced manufacturing programs
• Startup or rapid prototyping experience

Why Join Us

• Equity ownership opportunity within a rapidly growing manufacturing startup
• Direct involvement in building advanced aerospace and defense hardware
• Opportunity to influence machining processes, tooling infrastructure, and production scale-up efforts
• Exposure to advanced composites manufacturing and next-generation production technologies
• Clear growth opportunities into lead machinist or manufacturing engineering roles
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with employer match
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Compensation Details

$35/hr - $55/hr