Manufacturing Tech (CNC Machinist)

CNC MachinistScientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative CNC Machinist to support research and development and rapid prototyping projects activities to transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The CNC Machinist will work within the Rapid Development Group (RDG) team consisting of other machinists, engineers, and interns.Core ResponsibilitiesCreate, modify, troubleshoot, and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam and machine controlsSet up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centersMachine components using 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis equipment as requiredTake ownership of assigned parts from initial planning and programming through setup, machining, inspection, and completionSupport a variety of machining workloads ranging from one-off R&D prototypes to repeat builds and small-to-moderate production runsOperate established programs, setups, and parts developed by other machinists when required to support team workload, production needs, and schedule commitmentsDesign and manufacture custom fixtures, tooling, and workholding solutionsInterpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing process documentationDetermine appropriate machining strategies, cutting tools, workholding, feeds, speeds, and sequences to efficiently produce conforming hardwarePerform first-article and in-process inspections to verify dimensional and quality requirementsUtilize precision measurement equipment including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and other inspection equipmentTroubleshoot machining, tooling, programming, setup, and dimensional issues to minimize downtime and scrapMaintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and other product quality requirements throughout the manufacturing processWork with a variety of metals, plastics, and other materials commonly used in prototype and production machiningCollaborate directly with engineering, quality, production, and other machinists to improve part manufacturability and manufacturing processesProvide practical DFM feedback to engineering personnel when designs present machining, inspection, tolerance, or production challengesAssist and mentor machine operators and less-experienced machinists as appropriateDocument successful setups, tooling strategies, program revisions, and process improvements to support repeatability and future productionSupport shop priorities and transition between machines, programs, and jobs as workload demandsMaintain personal work areas, machines, tooling, and common shop areas in a clean and organized conditionFollow all company safety requirements and applicable OSHA standardsPerform other duties, assignments, and responsibilities as reasonably assigned by management in support of departmental, programmatic, and organizational objectivesEquipment and Facility ResponsibilitiesPerform routine preventative maintenance on CNC equipment and associated toolingCoordinate machine service requirements and communicate maintenance concerns to supervisionEnsure tooling is properly stored, identified, and maintainedKeep machines, work areas, and shared shop resources clean, organized, and ready for operationFollow all company safety procedures and housekeeping standardsRequired QualificationsAssociate degree in Machining Technology or equivalent technical training and experience5 – 8 years of progressively responsible CNC machining experienceDemonstrated experience setting up and operating CNC machining equipmentExperience with 3-axis machining and exposure to or experience with 4-axis and/or 5-axis machiningExperience programming CNC equipment using Mastercam or comparable CAM softwareExperience interpreting engineering drawings and applying GD&T requirements to machined componentsWorking knowledge of cutting tools, feeds and speeds, workholding, fixture design, and machining processesAbility to independently set up, troubleshoot, and produce conforming parts from engineering drawings and manufacturing documentationProficiency with precision measurement equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, and similar inspection toolsExperience machining and preparing a variety of materialsBasic computer skills, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic manufacturing documentationStrong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality hardwareAbility to work effectively both independently and as part of a teamWillingness to operate jobs, programs, and setups developed by other machinists in support of overall shop prioritiesU.Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearanceMay require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 50 poundsWorking environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may existPreferred Qualifications8 – 10 years of relevant experienceExperience with 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machiningExperience with Haas CNC controls and equipmentExperience with SolidWorksExperience programming and operating CNC waterjet equipmentExperience supporting both prototype/R&D machining and repeat or production manufacturingExperience transitioning prototype components into repeatable production processesExperience developing fixtures and workholding for repeat productionExperience with first-article inspection and QA/QC measurement processesExperience working within an ISO 9001 quality management systemExperience with CMM equipment or other advanced inspection systemsDemonstrated ability to mentor or provide technical guidance to less-experienced machinistsSelf-motivated and capable of independently identifying and executing the next steps required to complete assigned workActive DoD Top Secret clearanceSARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programsA generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)Tuition & certification reimbursementFlexible work schedulesDiscretionary Employee bonuses401(k) match/profit sharingEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)Pay RangeSalary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $27 to $40 (hourly USD). Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.Application Deadline: October 25, 2026SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.