CNC Machinist

CNC Machinist - Advanced Composites and Precision ToolingHawthorne, California | On-siteOpportunity SummaryA fast-growing defense and advanced manufacturing startup is developing next-generation composite manufacturing technologies designed to improve production speed, scalability, and performance for aerospace and defense applications. The team is focused on building high-strength composite structures and precision-engineered hardware that support critical systems across propulsion, unmanned systems, and high-temperature industrial applications. This role is centered around hands-on CNC machining, tooling development, and prototype manufacturing within a highly technical production environment. The machinist will own machining operations from programming through final part production while working closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to support rapid iteration, tooling optimization, and scalable production methods. The position is ideal for someone who enjoys operating directly on the shop floor while contributing to high-precision hardware development.About UsWe are an early-stage engineering and manufacturing company focused on advancing high-performance composite production for aerospace and defense systems. Our team works across machining, tooling, materials, manufacturing process development, and hardware integration to build production-capable systems that support demanding real-world environments. Team members operate with high ownership, close collaboration, and direct involvement in hardware execution.Job DutiesProgram, set up, and operate CNC machining equipment for prototype and production toolingManufacture precision molds, fixtures, and machined components under aggressive development timelinesManage machining operations from CAM programming through setup, operation, and final part completionWork closely with engineering teams to provide manufacturing feedback and improve part producibilityPerform tooling selection, setup optimization, and machining process refinement for both composite and metallic materialsSupport tooling organization, inventory management, and machine maintenance activitiesDevelop fixturing approaches and machining workflows to improve repeatability and throughputTroubleshoot machining issues and adjust setups, tooling, and machining parameters as neededCommunicate project status, schedule concerns, and manufacturing challenges clearly across the teamMaintain a clean, organized, and professional machine shop environmentQualifications2+ years of CNC machining experienceExperience operating CNC mills and CNC lathes in a prototype or production environmentProficiency with CAD/CAM software such as Fusion 360, Onshape, Mastercam, or similar platformsAbility to read technical drawings, GD&T, and CAD modelsHands-on experience with machine setup, tooling selection, offsets, and machining optimizationStrong attention to detail and ability to hold tight tolerancesComfortable working in a fast-paced hardware development environmentStrong communication and teamwork skillsU.S. Person status required in accordance with export control regulationsPreferred ExperienceExperience machining molds, tooling, or precision surfacing componentsBackground supporting composite manufacturing or aerospace hardware productionFamiliarity with fixture design and shop workflow standardizationExperience working in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environmentsExposure to aerospace, defense, propulsion, or advanced manufacturing programsStartup or rapid prototyping experienceWhy Join UsEquity ownership opportunity within a rapidly growing manufacturing startupDirect involvement in building advanced aerospace and defense hardwareOpportunity to influence machining processes, tooling infrastructure, and production scale-up effortsExposure to advanced composites manufacturing and next-generation production technologiesClear growth opportunities into lead machinist or manufacturing engineering rolesPaid time off401(k) with employer matchMedical, dental, and vision coverageCompensation Details$35/hr - $55/hr