CMM Programmer (Valves)

About the role

SpaceX is seeking a CMM Programmer to support precision inspection of valve components at their Hawthorne facility. In this role, you will own the development, validation, and maintenance of measurement programs that ensure critical valve parts meet stringent geometric and dimensional requirements. You will work on the second shift, operating independently and collaboratively to verify conformance using advanced metrology tools. The position requires a meticulous approach to interpreting engineering drawings and tolerances to prevent manufacturing issues. You will act as a technical expert, bridging the gap between design intent and inspection execution. Collaboration with quality assurance and engineering teams is central to driving inspection accuracy and process improvements. This role is integral to maintaining the high reliability demanded by SpaceX hardware in a fast-paced production environment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Operate CMM equipment, Romer Arms, and surface plate inspection techniques to validate parts, assemblies, and materials.
• Decode GD&T callouts, drawing annotations, and tolerance specifications to confirm strict compliance with engineering requirements.
• Author, revise, and structure PC-DMIS programs for articulating Romer Arms and operating DCC CMMs with precision.
• Choose suitable gauges and measurement instruments based on required accuracy levels for specific inspection tasks.
• Highlight GD&T ambiguities or drawing errors that could cause confusion or rework in manufacturing and inspection workflows.
• Liaise with engineering teams to craft inspection strategies and propose drawing modifications that enhance manufacturability.
• Support procurement activities related to the research and acquisition of gauges and CMM equipment.
• Create and present training resources to upskill colleagues in inspection methods and best practices.
• Maintain detailed records of inspection results and program changes to support traceability and continuous improvement.
• Ensure all inspection activities align with quality objectives and project delivery timelines.

Requirements

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent educational credential.
• Possess a minimum of 2 years of documented CMM programming experience.
• Demonstrate the ability to lift 25 lbs unassisted during routine job duties.
• Be physically capable of standing, climbing, bending, stooping, stretching, and carrying as required by the work environment.
• Show willingness to work within a cleanroom setting while wearing mandated personal protective equipment, including bunny suits, hair nets, and beard nets.
• Must meet ITAR requirements: U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or able to obtain required authorization from the U.S. Department of State.
• Availability to work the second shift schedule consistently, which includes Monday through Friday from 3:30 PM to 2:00 AM.
• Adherence to SpaceX quality standards and safety protocols in all inspection and programming activities.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when working with complex geometric tolerances and measurement equipment.

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience programming multi-sensing CMMs that integrate vision, laser, and touch probe technologies.
• Familiarity with Fanuc or Siemens CNC controls for on-machine probing operations.
• Background in designing or developing quality gauging solutions for production environments.
• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 standards and quality management systems.
• Practical experience setting up, calibrating, and troubleshooting CMM or Romer Arm equipment in a shop floor context.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in PC-DMIS programming for automated inspection routines.
• Expertise in operating articulating Romer Arms for portable measurement applications.
• Competency with DCC CMM systems for dimensional verification and trending.
• Strong capability in GD&T interpretation using ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Familiarity with standard gauges and a wide range of precision measurement tools.
• Understanding of metrology best practices, calibration standards, and measurement uncertainty principles.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams on inspection challenges.

Practical notes

• Pay ranges vary by level, with specific hourly rates defined for Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 positions.
• Final compensation level and salary are determined by an individual's job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
• Eligible employees may participate in long-term incentive programs, including company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards.
• Potential for discretionary bonuses and discounted stock purchase through the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental coverage, along with a 401(k) plan.
• Additional benefits provide short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
• Accrual of 3 weeks of paid vacation annually, plus access to 10 or more paid holidays each year.

This role is based at the Hawthorne facility and operates as part of the second shift team supporting valve component inspection and quality initiatives. The position plays a critical role in ensuring that measurement processes are robust, repeatable, and aligned with engineering specifications. CMM Programmers in this role will contribute directly to the reliability and performance of SpaceX hardware by maintaining strict compliance with inspection routines. Success in this position requires a disciplined approach to problem-solving and a commitment to continuous learning in metrology technologies. The work environment emphasizes safety, precision, and collaboration among technical teams. This is an opportunity to grow expertise in advanced measurement techniques while supporting high-stakes manufacturing operations.