Senior CNC Machinist / Programmer

Job Description

Job Description

About Fortin Racing, Inc.

Located in San Diego, Fortin Racing, Inc. is a premier drivetrain manufacturer for off-road race and recreational vehicles. A family-owned business with over 50 years of history, we design, engineer, and CNC machine all of our products in our modern 10,000 sq. ft. facility in El Cajon.

Fortin began building transaxles for off-road race cars in the early 1970s and has grown into a leader in high-performance drivetrain and steering components—manufactured to aerospace-level tolerances .

We are a small, agile team of 18 that works directly with customers throughout the design and manufacturing process. Our environment rewards ownership, problem-solving, and craftsmanship , with a relentless focus on quality.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Senior CNC Machinist / Programmer to take a leading role in producing and developing precision drivetrain components for high-performance and motorsports applications.

This is a hands-on role for someone who can own the entire machining process —from programming and setup through optimization and production. You’ll play a key role in improving processes, increasing efficiency, and helping elevate the overall capability of the shop.

What You’ll Work On

• State-of-the-art motorsport drivetrain components
• Tight-tolerance, performance-critical parts
• Prototype and low-volume, high-complexity machining
• Materials and geometries where precision and durability are critical

Key Responsibilities

• Program CNC lathes, vertical mills, and horizontal mills (3 & 4 axis) using CAM software and/or G-code
• Manage and mentor less experienced machinists and help elevate overall team capability
• Set up and operate machines to prove-out and refine programs
• Develop machining strategies, tooling packages, and workholding solutions
• Optimize cycle times without compromising quality
• Troubleshoot complex machining, tooling, and material challenges
• Perform first article inspections and ensure conformance to GD&T
• Collaborate with engineering on design for manufacturability (DFM)
• Drive continuous improvement in machining processes and shop efficiency
• Maintain high standards for quality, organization, and safety

Required Experience

• Minimum 10 years CNC machining experience (lathes and mills)
• Minimum 5 years CNC programming experience (CAM and/or G-code)
• Proven ability to program and machine complex, tight-tolerance parts independently
• Strong experience with live tooling lathes and vertical and horizontal mill work (3 & 4 axis)

Technical Qualifications

• Proficiency in CAM software (Mastercam, or similar)
• Deep understanding of feeds, speeds, tooling, and cutting strategies
• Strong knowledge of materials including high-strength alloys (e.g., 9310, 300M, Maraging, etc.)
• Ability to read and interpret complex prints and GD&T
• Experience holding tight tolerances consistently
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability

Leadership & Growth Expectations

• Take full ownership of jobs from programming through production
• Establish and refine best practices for programming and setups
• Mentor and train less experienced machinists
• Contribute to expanding shop capabilities and efficiency
• Act as a technical leader within the team

Preferred (But Not Required)

• Experience in motorsports, aerospace, or high-performance automotive
• Fixture and workholding design experience
• Experience improving workflows and standardizing processes

Why This Role Is Different

• Work on high-performance, non-repetitive components
• Direct impact on advanced drivetrain technology
• High level of autonomy and technical ownership
• Opportunity to help shape the future direction of the shop
• Be part of a small, elite team focused on precision and performance

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive senior-level compensation (based on experience)
• Overtime opportunities
• Health benefits
• Retirement plan with company matching
• Paid time off and holidays
• Long-term growth and leadership opportunities