CNC Prototype Machinist (Mill)

Job Description

Job Description

CNC Prototype Machinist (Mill)About Q

Q is not your typical manufacturing company.

We are a fast-growing firearms design and technology company known for innovation, precision, and challenging conventional thinking. Our products are designed, engineered, and manufactured in-house by a team that takes pride in craftsmanship, attention to detail, and continuous improvement.

At Q, we believe great products are built by great people. If you enjoy solving complex machining challenges, developing new manufacturing processes, and turning ideas into precision parts, we want to hear from you.

Position Overview

Q is seeking an experienced CNC Prototype Machinist (Mill) to join our Machine Shop . This position is responsible for setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing CNC milling machines to manufacture prototype components, fixtures, tooling, and low-volume production parts.

This role works closely with Manufacturing Engineering and Quality to develop machining processes, improve manufacturability, and rapidly produce precision firearm components from concept through production release.

The ideal candidate is a highly skilled machinist who enjoys solving complex manufacturing challenges, working with evolving designs, and producing precision parts with minimal direction.

Key ResponsibilitiesPrototype Machining

• Set up and operate CNC milling machines to manufacture prototype and development components.
• Produce one-off, first article, and low-volume production parts from engineering drawings and models.
• Select tooling, workholding, fixtures, cutting tools, and machining methods.
• Make tool wear and geometry offsets as needed to maintain part quality.
• Modify existing CNC programs and machine parameters as required to support prototype work.
• Verify machine readiness before production runs.

Manufacturing Engineering Collaboration

• Work closely with Manufacturing Engineering and Quality to support prototype and low-volume manufacturing.
• Provide feedback on machining methods, tooling, fixturing, and workholding to improve manufacturability.
• Recommend process improvements that increase efficiency, improve quality, and reduce setup time.
• Assist with first article validation and the transition of prototype parts into production.
• Communicate machining challenges and recommend practical solutions to support continuous improvement.

Quality & Inspection

• Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, engineering drawings, and GD&T.
• Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
• Use precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, indicators, bore gauges, and thread gauges.
• Identify and correct quality issues before they impact production.
• Ensure all prototype parts meet engineering intent and company quality standards.

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

• Diagnose machining issues involving tooling, fixturing, materials, machine performance, and existing CNC programs.
• Recommend improvements that reduce setup time, cycle time, scrap, and rework.
• Develop practical machining solutions for challenging prototype parts.
• Continuously improve machining methods and shop efficiency.

Shop Support

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Replace worn or damaged tooling and maintain tooling inventory.
• Assist with routine preventive maintenance of CNC equipment.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.

QualificationsRequired

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 5 years of CNC milling experience , including setup and operation.
• Experience machining complex precision components.
• Strong understanding of blueprint reading and GD&T.
• Experience modifying proven CNC programs and making machine offsets.
• Experience using precision measuring equipment.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience operating and setting up Doosan (DN Solutions), Haas, Brother, or similar CNC machining centers.
• Experience with 4-axis and/or 5-axis machining.
• Experience with SolidWorks and/or CAMWorks .
• Experience using Renishaw probing systems for part setup, work offsets, tool measurement, and in-process inspection.
• Experience designing or building machining fixtures.
• Firearms manufacturing experience is a plus.

What We're Looking For

• A machinist who enjoys building parts that have never been made before.
• Someone who thrives in a fast-paced prototype environment where priorities can change quickly.
• A creative problem solver who enjoys collaborating with the Machine Shop, Manufacturing Engineering, and Quality teams to bring new products from concept to reality.
• Someone who takes ownership of quality and craftsmanship.
• A self-starter who can work efficiently with minimal supervision.
• Someone who wants to help develop the next generation of Q products.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Purchase Program
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Fast-paced, innovative, and collaborative work environment

Equal Opportunity Employer

Q is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Employment Requirements

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and verification that the applicant is legally eligible to possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Ready to Join the Team?

If you're passionate about machining, innovation, and bringing new ideas to life, we'd love to hear from you. Join Q and help develop the next generation of industry-leading firearms and suppressors.

The Company reserves the right to conduct background investigations and/or reference checks on all of its potential employees as well as a drug screening.