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We are looking to hire a Prototype CNC Machinist in Pasadena, CA 91109. This is a Contract-to-Hire opportunity to join our FLAG Team!
Prototype CNC Machinist – 5-Axis / Mastercam
Location: Pasadena, CA 91109
Shift: 1st Shift | 9/80 Schedule
Pay Rate: $30.50 – $57.25/hour DOE
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled Prototype CNC Machinist to manufacture complex, one-of-a-kind precision components and flight hardware for advanced aerospace and space applications. This position is responsible for CAD/CAM programming, setup, and operation of 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machining centers, taking complex engineering designs from concept through finished hardware.
This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced machinist who thrives in a prototype, R&D, precision toolroom, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment rather than repetitive production machining.
The ideal candidate will have advanced 5-axis CNC milling, Mastercam programming, Vericut simulation, GD&T, blueprint reading, DFM, and precision inspection experience, along with the ability to independently develop machining strategies for highly complex components.
Key Responsibilities
- Program, setup, and operate advanced 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC machining centers
- Manufacture complex prototype and flight components from metallic and non-metallic materials
- Program and operate equipment including:
- Makino
- Matsuura
- Mitsui Seiki
- DMG Mori
- Haas
- Develop CNC programs using Mastercam CAD/CAM
- Utilize Vericut for CNC simulation, collision detection, toolpath verification, and process validation
- Develop machining strategies, tooling selections, workholding methods, feeds, speeds, and process sequences
- Manufacture highly complex components to exceptionally tight tolerances
- Read and interpret:
- Complex Engineering Blueprints
- GD&T / Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing
- Manufacturing Drawings
- Technical Specifications
- Engineering Requirements
- Perform self-inspection using precision measuring and inspection equipment
- Collaborate directly with:
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Cognizant Engineers
- Shop Leads
- Engineering Teams
- Participate in engineering and manufacturing design reviews
- Provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) recommendations
- Develop manufacturing process plans and machining estimates
- Optimize CNC programs to reduce cycle times and maximize machine utilization
- Setup and execute lights-out / unattended machining operations
- Manage multiple machining resources and production activities simultaneously
- Troubleshoot complex machining, programming, tooling, workholding, and dimensional issues
- Perform routine equipment maintenance and scheduled Preventive Maintenance (PM)
- Train, mentor, and coach other machinists on advanced machining techniques
- Maintain strict adherence to shop safety and equipment operating procedures
- Follow Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protocols when working around sensitive flight electronic hardware
- Support continuous improvement, process optimization, and advanced manufacturing initiatives
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma plus 10+ years of related machining experience, OR
- Associate's Degree plus 6+ years of related experience, OR
- Bachelor's Degree plus 3+ years of related experience
- Completed technical or machining training
- Extensive hands-on experience with 5-axis CNC milling
- Advanced CNC programming, setup, and machining capabilities
- Minimum 5 years of active Mastercam programming experience
- Experience with Vericut CNC simulation software
- Advanced knowledge of:
- Mastercam
- 5-Axis Machining
- Multi-Axis CNC Programming
- Toolpath Development
- GD&T
- Precision Machining
- Tight-Tolerance Manufacturing
- Ability to independently program and manufacture complex components from engineering drawings
- Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills
- Ability to self-inspect completed parts
- Strong knowledge of feeds, speeds, cutting tools, workholding, and advanced machining strategies
- Ability to independently troubleshoot complex manufacturing challenges
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate directly with engineering and manufacturing teams
- Understanding of ESD protective protocols
Preferred Qualifications
- 12+ years of aerospace or space industry machining experience
- Prototype, R&D, spacecraft, satellite, or flight hardware manufacturing experience
- Experience programming, setting up, and operating CNC lathes including:
- Experience with:
- EDM / Electrical Discharge Machining
- Conventional Machining
- Manual Mills
- Manual Lathes
- Precision Toolroom Operations
- Previous Lead Machinist or machining team leadership experience
- Experience manufacturing one-off and low-volume prototype components
- Strong understanding of:
- Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
- Lights-Out Machining
- Unattended Machining
- High-Speed Machining
- Complex Workholding
- Process Optimization
- Cycle-Time Reduction
- Preventive Maintenance
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and work around CNC equipment for extended periods
- Frequent use of hands for tooling, setup, inspection, and machine operation
- Ability to bend, reach, lift, and maneuver tooling, fixtures, and components
- Excellent visual acuity and manual dexterity for precision machining and inspection
- Ability to safely work around automated and multi-axis CNC equipment
Work Environment
This position operates in an advanced aerospace/space precision machining and prototype fabrication environment supporting the manufacture of developmental and flight hardware.
The environment includes:
- 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machining centers
- Prototype and low-volume manufacturing
- Precision inspection equipment
- Advanced CAD/CAM programming
- Flight hardware and sensitive components
- Conventional and advanced manufacturing equipment
Proper PPE, ESD controls where applicable, and strict adherence to all shop and equipment safety procedures are required.
Candidates with strong 5-axis CNC machining, Mastercam programming, Vericut, GD&T, prototype machining, and aerospace/space flight hardware experience are strongly encouraged to apply.