Mill Machinist I

Job Description

Job Description

Mill Machinist I

2nd shift but available to train on 1st shift.

Summary

Vaya Space is a privately owned space and defense company headquartered on Florida’s Space Coast. We are advancing patented vortex-hybrid engine technology to deliver propulsion systems that meet the highest standards of safety, affordability, and sustainability. In the commercial market, our Dauntless launch vehicle provides reliable and cost-effective access to orbit. In defense, our hybrid propulsion systems support next-generation tactical, hypersonic, and missile defense applications.

As a Mill Machinist II you will be responsible for independently setting up and operating 3- to 5-axis CNC milling machines to produce precision components according to engineering drawings, CAD models, and manufacturing requirements. This position requires a strong understanding of machining principles, tooling selection, workholding, inspection techniques, and troubleshooting. The ideal candidate can perform complete machine setups with minimal supervision and has experience with CNC programming or CAM software in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.

We are a fast-paced, mission-driven team tackling some of the hardest problems in aerospace. Success at Vaya requires personal leadership, strong technical skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Every team member contributes across disciplines, stepping up where needed to drive innovation forward.
If you want to make an impact and help shape the future of space and defense, Vaya Space is the place to do it.

Travel Required

Up to 10%

Required Security Clearance

None (ITAR Eligible)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently set up and operate 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC milling machines.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T requirements, and job travelers
• Select tooling, workholding, and machining strategies appropriate for the job
• Load, verify, and troubleshoot CNC programs.
• Establish work offsets, tool offsets, and probing routines
• Perform first article inspections and verify conformance to specifications
• Make program edits and machine adjustments to optimize quality and cycle times
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and setup issues with minimal supervision
• Make program edits and machine adjustments to optimize quality and cycle times
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and setup issues with minimal supervision
• Collaborate with programmers, quality personnel, and manufacturing leadership to improve processes.
• Assist in developing setup documentation and best practices
• Mentor Mill Machinist I personnel and support training initiatives
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of CNC milling experience.
• Ability to independently perform complete machine setups
• Experience operating 3-axis CNC mills
• Experience with 4-axis and/or 5-axis machining
• Strong understanding of cutting tools, feeds, speeds, workholding, and machining strategies.
• Proficient blueprint reading skills including GD&T interpretation
• Ability to perform first article and in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot setup and machining issues independently
• Experience in a prototype, aerospace, defense, or high-mix low-volume manufacturing environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
• To comply with U.S. export regulations, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and the Export Administration Regulations you must (a) be a “U.S. Person” as defined under those regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents of the U.S., and protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (b) otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce, as appropriate.

Preferred Skills and Education

• CNC programming experience using CAMWorks
• Ability to create or modify CNC programs
• Experience with Haas mills and rotary/trunnion systems.
• Experience with probing systems and automated inspection routines
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems such as ProShop.
• Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and engineering plastics.