CNC Machinist, Tool & Die
Job description
About the role
SpaceX is seeking a skilled CNC Machinist specializing in Tool & Die work to support manufacturing operations at their Bastrop, Texas facility. This role is central to producing precision tooling and dies used in the fabrication of rocket components and hardware that must meet the highest aerospace standards. The machinist will operate computer numerically controlled machines to create complex metal parts that meet exacting aerospace specifications and tight dimensional tolerances. Candidates should be dedicated to quality, precision, and safety in a high-performance manufacturing environment where attention to every detail directly impacts mission success. The ideal individual thrives in a collaborative team setting and takes pride in delivering workmanship that consistently exceeds expectations.
Key facts
What you'll do
Operate CNC milling and turning machines to produce tooling, dies, jigs, and fixtures for manufacturing processes.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications to determine machining parameters and tolerances.
Set up CNC machines with appropriate tooling, workholding devices, and measuring instruments before each production run.
Perform precision measurements using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and coordinate measuring machines to verify part accuracy.
Maintain and troubleshoot CNC equipment, performing routine maintenance and identifying mechanical or electrical issues promptly.
Collaborate with engineers and production teams to optimize tooling designs and improve overall manufacturing efficiency.
Select and recommend cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and coolant strategies based on material type and part geometry.
Document all machining procedures, setups, and inspection results in accordance with quality management standards and protocols.
Ensure all work areas comply with safety regulations and company-wide manufacturing best practices at all times.
Train and mentor junior machinists on CNC operation techniques, tooling selection, and quality inspection methods.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing production data and proposing process enhancements.
Prepare and present status reports on tooling projects, including timelines, resource needs, and quality metrics.
Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or associate degree in machining or a related field preferred.
Minimum of several years of hands-on experience operating CNC milling and turning machines in a production manufacturing setting.
Demonstrated proficiency in reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, and geometric dimensioning specifications.
Experience with precision measurement tools including micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, height gauges, and surface plates.
Working knowledge of various metals and alloys, including aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and tool steel properties.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with minimal supervision.
Strong attention to detail with a consistent commitment to producing parts that meet tight dimensional tolerances.
Willingness to work in a physical manufacturing environment, standing for extended periods and lifting moderate loads regularly.
Effective communication skills for coordinating with engineering, quality, and production departments on tooling projects and schedules.
Nice to have
Experience with Fanuc or Siemens CNC control systems and their associated programming languages for machine operation.
Familiarity with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or SolidWorks for generating and verifying toolpaths.
Prior experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing where strict quality, traceability, and documentation standards apply.
Knowledge of statistical process control and lean manufacturing principles to support continuous improvement initiatives on the shop floor.
Understanding of EDM processes and wire EDM equipment operation for precision tooling applications in production environments.
Skills & tools
CNC milling machines including vertical and horizontal machining centers for multi-axis cutting operations.
CNC lathes and turning centers for producing cylindrical and complex rotational parts with tight tolerances.
Precision measurement instruments such as coordinate measuring machines, optical comparators, and surface roughness testers.
CAD/CAM software for programming toolpaths, simulating machining operations, and generating G-code programs.
Hand tools including grinders, drills, taps, dies, and files for finishing and deburring operations.
Material handling equipment and shop fixtures for safe workpiece positioning and secure clamping.
Computer systems for accessing digital work orders, quality records, and manufacturing documentation.
Practical notes
This position is based at the Bastrop, Texas facility and requires on-site presence during regular business hours each week.
Employees may be required to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening as part of the standard hiring process.
The role involves working in a manufacturing environment with potential exposure to noise, coolant, lubricants, and metal shavings.
Shift schedules may vary based on production demands, and flexibility is expected from all team members assigned to this role.
SpaceX is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, or religion.
About the company
Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.