CNC Programmer & Machinist (3

About the role

Space Kinetic designs proliferated spacecraft architectures that replace single-payload buses with many payloads deployed at high velocity without thrusters. The CNC Programmer & Machinist produces precision hardware that enables rapid prototyping and flight testing. This contract role works onsite to turn engineering designs into tangible parts under tight aerospace 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

Precision-machined components advance prototype builds and flight-test hardware for Space Kinetic. Complex part geometries become CAM programs that drive production on multi-axis machines. Three-, five-, or seven-axis operations are programmed to meet strict aerospace tolerances and quality goals. The engineering team receives direct support for rapid design iterations and prototyping through machined parts and quick-turn adjustments. Machinists train and mentor peers so that team and project milestones are consistently met.

Requirements

Eight or more years of professional machining experience demonstrate depth in aerospace manufacturing. Mastercam or a comparable CAM platform is used to generate programs for complex components. Three-axis CNC mills and lathes are programmed, set up, and operated with proven reliability. Setups for difficult parts maintain tight aerospace tolerances and surface integrity. Experience mentoring machinists shapes team capability and aligns with project timelines. A track record of meeting project milestones guides independent problem solving and ownership. Clear written and verbal communication supports a collaborative, team-oriented workflow. U.S. government security clearance is obtained and maintained to satisfy ITAR requirements.

Nice to have

Five-axis CNC mills and mill-turn lathes extend machining flexibility for intricate features. Specific familiarity with the Okuma Multus B300 Mill-Turn, Okuma Genos M560V-5AX, or Okuma Genos M660 speeds setup and programming. Adaptability to feedback and openness to new ideas improve process robustness. A strong commitment to integrity, quality, and precision ensures repeatable, reliable space-grade parts.

Practical notes

The role is based onsite at the El Segundo, California headquarters and requires collaboration across engineering functions. Success depends on adherence to ITAR compliance and strict documentation. 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

Work in this field involves high-precision manufacturing for space systems where hardware reliability is critical. The role uses CNC machining to produce prototypes and test articles in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Clear communication and teamwork are essential when collaborating with engineers and machinists.

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.