CNC Machinist
Job description
About the role
The CNC Machinist shapes prototype parts and coordinates shop activities for a robotics platform. This role programs multi-axis equipment, verifies parts, and supports assembly. The position collaborates with engineering teams to enhance designs while following quality and safety standards.
Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.
Key facts
What you'll do
CAM programs are written and refined in software such as Fusion 360 or Mastercam to define machining operations.
Fixtures, jigs, and workholding solutions are designed, fabricated, and modified to support high-mix, low-volume production. Deburring, finishing, tapping, reaming, and bench fitting bring parts to specified condition.
Prototypes move through assembly and testing with mechanical engineers to support manufacturing activities. Design and manufacturing engineers refine machinability, process efficiency, and part quality through direct shop collaboration. Raw stock, tooling, and finished parts are organized and tracked to ensure clarity and traceability. Equipment, tooling, and workspaces are maintained, and safety and quality procedures are followed.
Requirements
Candidates bring 4+ years of CNC machining experience focused on prototype or low-volume production. Proficiency operating and programming 5-axis Haas mills and Haas lathes is required. Engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T are interpreted with strong accuracy. Aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, plastics, and other engineering materials are routinely machined.
Custom fixtures and workholding are designed and built to support production needs. Deburring, tapping, reaming, fitting, finishing, and assembly work are performed to specification. Precision instruments such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, dial indicators, and bore gauges are used consistently. Independent execution is balanced with close collaboration across engineering and technical teams.
Nice to have
Experience in robotics, automation, aerospace, or R&D prototype environments is valued. Parametric CAD models are edited and fixtures are designed in SolidWorks. Process optimization, fixture design, and workholding best practices knowledge is helpful. Manual mills, manual lathes, surface grinders, and similar equipment familiarity is advantageous.
Practical notes
Work is conducted in a shared machine shop environment with cross-functional engineering teams. Clear organization of materials and traceability supports quality and schedule adherence. Typical interview steps
Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.
Good to know
Tools such as Fusion 360 and Mastercam guide program development. Haas control interfaces and machine interfaces are used daily. Precision measurement tools verify geometry and tolerances.
Career growth
Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.