CNC Programmer
29 days ago
El Segundo
Job Description About Varda Low Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. From life-saving pharmaceuticals to more powerful fiber optics, there is a world of products used on Earth today that can only be manufactured in space. Varda is accelerating innovation in the orbital economy by creating both the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind. Our team is uniquely suited to accomplishing this goal, with leadership and staff comprised of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical companies and Silicon Valley. Varda was founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov with significant backing from world class investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital. Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, where we have offices and a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are built, integrated, and tested. Varda also has offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL (coming soon). Join Varda, and work to create a bustling in-space ecosystem. About this Role We are looking for an exceptional Senior 5-Axis Prototype Machinist to join our Manufacturing Team. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in machining complex, high-precision components critical to our spacecraft systems. This hands-on role will challenge you to program, set up, and operate advanced 5-axis CNC machines while maintaining rigorous quality standards. You'll lead efforts to streamline machining processes, tackle novel manufacturing challenges, and collaborate closely with engineering teams to deliver cutting-edge spaceflight hardware. This is not a production environment - this is a dynamic, high-stakes role that demands precision, ingenuity, and a passion for advanced manufacturing. Key Responsibilities • Program, set up, and operate 5-axis CNC machines (e.g., DMG MORI, Haas UMC) to produce complex aerospace components to tolerances as tight as ±0.0005"., • Work with a wide range of materials, including Inconel, titanium, stainless steel, and carbon composites, ensuring exceptional surface finish and dimensional accuracy., • Develop and refine toolpaths using Mastercam, HsmWorks, or equivalent software, leveraging advanced strategies such as high-speed machining, trochoidal milling, and adaptive clearing., • Integrate on-machine probing and macros for part alignment, feature verification, and adaptive toolpath adjustments., • Take full ownership of the machining process, from raw material selection to final inspection., • Collaborate with engineering teams to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback and propose creative solutions for complex part geometries., • Conduct in-process inspections and first article verifications using tools such as CMMs, laser scanners, micrometers, and other precision measurement instruments., • High school diploma or equivalency certificate (vocational or technical training in machining preferred)., • 5+ years of experience in 5-axis CNC machining, with a focus on aerospace or high-precision components., • Proficiency in CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, HyperMILL, or Esprit) and 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Siemens NX)., • Deep understanding of G-code, M-code, and CNC program editing., • Expertise in machining exotic materials such as titanium, Inconel, and carbon fiber composites., • Strong knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, and tolerance stack-ups., • Hands-on experience with precision inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, CMMs)., • 10+ years of hands-on experience in manual and CNC machining, including advanced 5-axis operations., • Experience designing and fabricating complex fixturing and work-holding solutions., • Proven ability to lead or mentor junior machinists, with a focus on improving team efficiency and quality., • Advanced knowledge of multi-tasking machine operations, such as mill-turns and live-tool lathes., • Mastery in troubleshooting machining challenges and implementing process improvements., • Sign On Bonus, • Senior CNC Machinist: $39.00 - $49.00 per hour, • Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance ITAR Requirements Learn more about the ITAR here. Benefits • Sign On Bonus, • Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side, • Equity in a fully funded space startup with potential for significant growth, • 401(k) matching, • Unlimited PTO, • Health insurance, including Vision and Dental, • Lunch and snacks provided on site every day. Dinners provided twice a week. E-Verify Statement Varda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the E-Verify program. E-Verify Notice Right To Work Notice Read more Read more Job Type: Full-time Pay: $39.00 - $49.00 per hour Work Location: In person