CNC Machinist (Raptor)

About the role

Production of Raptor flight hardware through CNC operations directs this Hawthorne role. First shift activities maintain machine uptime and support program level production rate goals within a regulated environment. This position operates on the initial shift inside an ITAR governed setting.

Every role in this field shares a few habits: clear communication, structured thinking, and steady follow through. Teams hold regular meetings, review progress, and adjust plans. Success usually depends on how well you work with others, not just how hard you try. Successful professionals in any field share a few habits: they take notes, keep commitments, and communicate in writing. Teams value people who make their work easy to review and build on.

Key facts

What you'll do

Flight hardware receives shaping through CNC machining to meet program production rate objectives.

Downstream customers receive parts with completed deburring from the assigned work center.

Machine cut threads are resized to match printed specifications.

Conformance to standards is confirmed through inspection of surface finishes, threads, and broken edges.

Internal defects and debris are located using borescope checks before further shop processing.

Unplanned downtime risk is reduced by weekly and monthly preventative maintenance on CNC machines.

Workspaces remain safe and orderly through organized chip bins, oils, greases, and 5S practices.

Traceability of process data is ensured by completing work instructions and test plans during production.

Accuracy is maintained through precision setups executed on CNC machines for every job.

Correct loading and measurement of cutting tools in CNC machines is verified before programs run.

Requirements

The posting states a pay range of $23 to $38.

A high school diploma or equivalency certificate is the minimum education.

At least 1+ years of manufacturing experience must be brought to the shop floor.

ITAR eligibility is required through U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, refugee, or asylum status.

Physical capability must cover repetitive movement, bending or twisting, handling objects, and exposure to noise.

Willingness to work overtime and weekend hours on the first shift (5:00 AM 3:30 PM) is mandatory.

The ability to lift up to 50lbs without accommodation is necessary in the shop.

Standing and kneeling must be possible without accommodation during extended shifts.

Nice to have

Five or more years of manufacturing experience aligns with preferred qualifications.

Clear reading and writing skills support accurate performance of basic arithmetic and shop math.

Knowledge of tooling technology, blueprint reading, and measurement methods for parts is expected.

Strong mechanical aptitude and team-oriented interpersonal skills help operate effectively in this setting.

Practical notes

This role is bound by U.S. ITAR regulations that require specific citizenship or immigration status.

First shift hours run from 5:00 AM to 3:30 PM with possible overtime and weekend work.

Typical interview steps

Hiring processes usually combine a screening conversation with one or more interview rounds. Candidates can expect questions about their experience, a scenario or case, and a chance to ask their own questions. Preparation and specific examples from past work carry the most weight. Whatever the role, preparation is visible. Reviewing the company's product, the job description, and your own past work before the conversation is the strongest step.

Good to know

Work in a high-tech aerospace environment where precision machining supports flight hardware.

Expect to use CNC machines, laser marking tools, borescopes, and standard shop measuring instruments.

Team collaboration is central to meeting production and quality standards in a fast-paced setting.

Physical effort is required including repetitive motions, lifting, and extended periods of standing.