CNC Programmer / Machinist

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid‑electric airplane with a capacity of 30 passengers, an electric zero‑emission range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Heart is targeting type certification of the ES‑30 by the end of the decade. Your mission We are building hybrid‑electric aircraft and are establishing an in‑house machine shop to support prototype, tooling, and early production efforts. We are seeking a CNC Programmer/Machinist who will be the first hire in the machine shop. You will have an opportunity to play a key role in shaping machining processes, standards, and culture. This is a hands‑on role requiring deep experience machining large aluminum structural components, developing robust processes, and transitioning work from prototype through low‑rate production. The ideal candidate brings strong technical judgment, takes pride in craftsmanship, and operates with an unwavering commitment to safety and equipment care. Key responsibilities include but are not limited to: Program, set up, and operate CNC machines for prototype, tooling, and low‑rate production components Machine components of various materials (Alum, SS, Steels, Ti) of varying heat treatments. Main categories include large aluminum structural parts, battery and electrical housing development components, and miscellaneous test tooling components Develop CNC programs using Autodesk Fusion CAM Operate and support Design and build fixtures and workholding, and perform complete machine setups Complete machining operations through first‑article inspection Develop tool lists and machining strategies that prioritize safety, accuracy, surface quality, and cost effectiveness Utilize Renishaw probing systems (tool setter and part probe) for setup, in‑process verification, and inspection Support manual mill and lathe work for quick‑turn prototype parts, tooling, and fixturing Perform saw operations to prepare raw material as required and perform final deburr including edge‑breaks, polish and thread work as required Apply strong understanding of GD&T, datum structures, and inspection methods to ensure parts meet engineering intent Perform first‑article inspections and support quality documentation Work closely with manufacturing and design engineers to influence DFM and process development Help establish shop best practices, standard work, and workflows as the shop grows Safety, Organization & Culture Maintain an extremely high standard of safety — safety is the number one priority Take ownership of equipment care, preventive maintenance, and proper machine use Keep tooling, fixtures, and work areas organized and clearly labeled Support and help build a 5S / Lean manufacturing environment Demonstrate a proactive, can‑do attitude and willingness to step in where needed Skills & Requirements You’ll Bring These Qualifications for CNC Programmer/Machinist 5+ years of experience as a CNC Programmer/Machinist in aerospace or high‑precision manufacturing Strong proficiency with Autodesk Fusion CAM High level of skill operating Haas VF series 3‑axis and Haas 5‑axis mills Hands‑on experience with Renishaw tool and part probing Experience designing fixtures and executing full machine setups Solid understanding of GD&T, datum structuring, and inspection techniques Experience with manual mill and lathe operations Ability to work independently and make sound machining and process decisions These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have: Aerospace manufacturing experience Experience supporting both prototype and low‑rate production environments Familiarity with scaling machining processes toward higher‑rate production Experience establishing or growing a machine shop function Why This Role Be the first machinist hire and help shape the future of the machine shop Work directly on a first‑of‑its‑kind hybrid‑electric aircraft program High level of ownership, autonomy, and technical influence Pay Range $40/HR — $56/HR (USD) #J-18808-Ljbffr