Senior Machinist

At Strata-G, we know it takes talented and dedicated people to deliver solutions for a greater cause, and we consider our employees to be our greatest asset. We are a growing, dynamic organization offering diverse challenges to innovative professionals.

We are seeking a Senior Machinist to join our team. The Senior Machinist is responsible for advanced setup, programming, operation, troubleshooting, and optimization of CNC and manual machining equipment in a high-precision aerospace/defense manufacturing environment. This role requires expert-level machining knowledge, strong blueprint interpretation skills, and the ability to independently execute complex machining operations with minimal supervision. The Senior Machinist also mentors junior machinists and supports continuous improvement initiatives across the shop.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform full setup and operation of CNC mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers
• Program CNC equipment for multi-axis milling and lathe machining (G-code and CAM-based)
• Edit and optimize toolpaths for efficiency, quality, and cycle-time reduction
• Select tooling, fixtures, and work-holding for complex aerospace components
• Interpret complex drawings, GD&T, and customer specifications
• Conduct first-article inspections and verify conformance to AS9100 standards
• Troubleshoot machining issues, tool wear, and dimensional deviations
• Perform in-process inspections using precision measurement tools
• Document machining operations per internal procedures and customer requirements
• Support root-cause analysis and corrective actions
• Follow all safety, CUI, and DoD 5200.48 compliance requirements
• Mentor and train junior machinists and CNC operators
• Collaborate with engineering, planning, and quality teams
• Provide feedback on manufacturability, tooling improvements, and process optimization
• Support continuous improvement, 5S, and lean initiatives

Qualifications Required:

• 10+ years of machining experience in aerospace, defense, or high-precision manufacturing
• Demonstrated experience in CNC programming for multi-axis milling and lathe machining
• Expert-level CNC setup and operation
• Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation
• Active DoD security clearance (or ability to obtain one)
• Proficiency with precision measurement tools
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Experience with CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar) for multi-axis programming preferred
• Experience in AS9100 or ISO-certified environments preferred
• Familiarity with CMM inspection processes preferred
• Prior experience mentoring or leading machinists preferred