CNC Machinist (Starship Components)

About the role

Join the team building hardware for the Starship program in Hawthorne. You will produce flight and non-flight components while maintaining high standards for precision and efficiency in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This position requires a proactive mindset where your daily actions directly impact the success of complex aerospace manufacturing timelines. You will be responsible for ensuring that every component meets stringent specifications before it moves further down the production line. The role demands ownership of your workstation and the ability to solve problems independently when issues arise. You will work alongside engineers and technicians to refine processes that enhance overall productivity. Success in this role is defined by your commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement within the shop floor.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Operate, set up, and edit programs for CNC machinery with a focus on optimizing tool paths for efficiency.
• Prioritize daily tasks to meet production deadlines and quality requirements while managing multiple orders in a dynamic schedule.
• Manage cutting tools and ensure machines are prepared for upcoming programs, including verifying tool wear and replacement schedules.
• Perform on-machine deburring and preventative maintenance on a weekly and monthly basis to keep equipment in optimal working condition.
• Maintain shop cleanliness and organization through 5S and general upkeep to support a safe and efficient work environment.
• Document processes through work instructions and test plans to ensure traceability and consistency in production outputs.
• Propose improvements for machining, tooling, and fixturing strategies that reduce cycle time and enhance part quality.
• Inspect finished components using precision measuring tools to verify conformance to detailed engineering drawings and specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve discrepancies and implement corrective actions for any deviations observed during processing.
• Load and unload CNC machines while adhering to strict safety protocols to prevent injury and equipment damage during operation.
• Monitor machine performance throughout shifts and report any anomalies or irregularities to the maintenance department immediately.
• Support production scaling efforts by replicating setups and ensuring that new programs are implemented smoothly without disrupting existing workflows.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate is mandatory for consideration in this technical role.
• Minimum of 3 years of CNC machining experience demonstrating proficiency in manual and automated equipment operation.
• Ability to lift 35 lbs unassisted when moving heavy stock materials or completed parts between workstations.
• Ability to stand and kneel for 8-hour shifts without significant discomfort or loss of concentration.
• Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks like bending, twisting, and handling tools as part of regular job duties.
• Comfort working in environments with high noise levels produced by machinery and active shop floor operations.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to meet ITAR requirements for defense-related aerospace manufacturing.
• Willingness to work scheduled shifts, including overtime during peak production periods to meet critical project milestones.
• Adherence to all company safety standards and quality management systems to ensure compliance and workplace integrity.
• Basic mathematical skills required to interpret engineering drawings, calculate tolerances, and verify measurements accurately.
• Physical capability to move freely within the production area while carrying necessary tools and inspection instruments.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment by following all lockout/tagout procedures and emergency protocols.

Nice to have

• 5+ years of CNC operating experience providing a deeper understanding of complex machining operations and troubleshooting techniques.
• Proficiency in Esprit CAD/CAM software for creating efficient toolpaths and simulating machining processes before execution.
• Experience with high-efficiency milling and turning that allows for faster cycle times and improved surface finishes on parts.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and blueprint reading skills enabling quick interpretation of technical drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with shop math and tooling technology used in precision aerospace component manufacturing environments.
• Willingness to cross-train peers and learn new shop assets to increase team flexibility and support operational continuity.

Practical notes

• Pay ranges: Level 1 ($23.00 - $27.00/hour), Level 2 ($26.00 - $32.50/hour), Level 3 ($31.00 - $38.00/hour).
• Shift options: 1st shift (5:00 AM) or 2nd shift (2:30 PM).
• Compensation includes potential stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, 3 weeks of vacation, and 10+ paid holidays.
• Positions located in Hawthorne, Canada require eligibility to work in the country without sponsorship.
• Full-time engagement requires adherence to standard working hours with possible shift adjustments based on production needs.
• Security clearance requirements may apply due to the sensitive nature of aerospace manufacturing operations.
• Training and onboarding schedules will be coordinated based on operational demands and team availability.
• Travel is not expected as part of this role since all duties are performed at the designated facility.
• Candidates must meet all regulatory requirements for employment in the aerospace manufacturing sector.