CNC Programmer/Machinist-Lead

Job Description Job Description CNC Programmer/Machinist Lead JobSummary: We areseekinga highly skilled and self-motivated CNC Programmer/Machinist Leadto oversee our machine shop operations and support the development of innovative manufacturing and R&D solutions. This exempt, full-time role combines technicalexpertisewith leadership responsibilities, including managing a team,optimizingshop performance, and collaborating with engineers to develop prototypes and complex components. The CNC Programmer/Machinist Leadensures machining processes align with design intent, quality standards, and production goals, while mentoring and evaluating the performance of shop personnel. Responsibilitiesand Duties: Team Leadership & Performance Management Supervise, mentor, and evaluate machinists and shop personnel to ensure safety, productivity, and technical excellence. Assign work,monitorperformance, provide feedback, and support professional development. Manage shop schedules, resource allocation, and material acquisition to meet project timelines. Technical Oversight & CNC Programming Develop, generate, and review CNC programs for machining complex components on horizontal and vertical machining centers (3-axis and multi-axis). Oversee the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of CNC machines. Collaborate with engineers to develop and fabricate fixtures, prototypes, and tooling solutions. Ensure designs areoptimizedfor manufacturability and efficient production. Process & Shop Management Lead continuous improvement initiatives tooptimizemachining processes, cycle times, and quality outcomes. Maintain andmonitorshop equipment,identifyupgrades or future needs, and recommend capital improvements. Establish andmaintaindocumentation, including build guides, schematics, work instructions, and inspection procedures. Collaboration & Problem Solving Work closely with engineers toassistin prototype creation, product testing, and troubleshooting of complex technical issues. Provide solutions to machining, assembly, and process challenges using independent judgment. Coordinate cross-functional activities with engineering, quality, and operations teams to ensure successful project outcomes. Required Qualificationsand Skills: Minimum 5 years of CNC programming, setup, and operation experience (3-axis and multi-axis). Strong foundationin CAD/CAM systems (e.g., SolidWorks, Mastercam) and geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T). Proven hands-on technical skills with machining tools, fixtures, part fabrication, and assembly. Experience supervising, mentoring, or managing technical staff. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Effective written and verbal communication skills. DesiredQualifications and Skills Experience with inventory/parts management and shop workflow optimization. Experience with composites,aircraftavionics, or A&P certification. Technical writing skills, including build guides, schematics, wiring diagrams, and process documentation. Knowledge of lean manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement methodologies. Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: Health & Wellness:Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. Paid Time Off:Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hoursaccruedplus anadditional40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. Life Insurance:$25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with theoptiontopurchaseadditionalcoverage for employees and their families. Supplemental Coverage:Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. Health Savings Account (HSA):Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. Retirement Savings:401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. Paid Holidays:Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. Work Environment:A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. Ideal Location:Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! Company Overview: Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize incutting-edgesystem design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities whilemaintainingthe highest standards of engineering services. AtESAero, wedon’tjust build products, we engineer solutions that propel the aerospace industry forward. **This position is fully on-site atESAeroin San Luis Obispo, CA** __________________________________________________________________________ ESAerois an equal opportunity employer. E-Verify participationrequiredfor employment. AllESAeropositions require US citizenship or US resident status. Must be able to pass background checkand drug test. PayRange:$100 - $135k Salary/Exempt Powered by JazzHR 7nqE0LtuDG