Mill Operator - Powermill

Job Title: Mill Operator - CNC Prototype Machining

Job Description

This Mill Operator role focuses on programming, setting up, and operating CNC milling equipment used to fabricate automotive design and prototype models. You will primarily machine foam and model-board components that support vehicle design development, concept studies, and advanced styling projects. You will work closely with designers, modelers, and engineering teams to deliver high-quality prototype surfaces and physical models in a fast-paced design studio environment.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC milling machines to produce automotive design studio models and prototype components.
• Utilize CAM software (such as Powermill) to create, modify, and optimize CNC toolpaths for foam, model board, and related prototype materials.
• Interpret CAD data and digital surface models to ensure accurate translation into high-quality physical parts.
• Prepare complete machine setups, including fixture placement, tooling selection, work offsets, and machine calibration.
• Verify machining programs through simulation and collision detection prior to production to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Machine foam blocks, model board, and other prototype materials to precise dimensional and surface quality requirements.
• Collaborate closely with designers, digital sculptors, clay modelers, and engineering personnel to support vehicle development programs and design iterations.
• Inspect completed parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and adherence to design specifications, and make adjustments as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and programming issues to minimize downtime and maintain production schedules.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and keep equipment in optimal working condition.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with safety and housekeeping standards.
• Document machining processes, setup information, and revision changes to support repeatability and continuous improvement.
• Support prototype development activities, including implementing design changes and executing fast-turnaround model modifications.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to machining processes, quality, and efficiency.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines while operating CNC equipment and handling materials.

Essential Skills

• Experience operating CNC milling machines in a prototype, modeling, aerospace, automotive, or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with CAM software such as Powermill for toolpath generation and machining strategy development.
• Ability to read and interpret CAD and digital design data for accurate part production.
• Strong knowledge of CNC machining principles, including cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and machine setup procedures.
• Hands-on experience machining foam, model board, composites, or other non-ferrous materials.
• Understanding of multi-axis machining concepts and the use of machining simulations.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills related to CNC programming, tooling, and machine operation.
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced prototype or design studio environment with evolving priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and a demonstrated commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, modelers, and engineers.
• Commitment to safety compliance and adherence to established procedures.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience supporting automotive design studios, prototype development, or concept vehicle programs.
• Familiarity with Powermill, Alias, NX, or other automotive CAD and CAD/CAM platforms.
• Experience operating 5-axis CNC milling equipment for complex surfaces and large components.
• Understanding of clay model development and automotive styling processes.
• Experience with large-format machining applications and full-scale vehicle models.
• Forklift, crane, or other material handling experience.
• Background in prototype fabrication, including model and foam machining.
• Experience with CAD/CAM integration and digital-to-physical workflows.
• Exposure to quality inspection methods for dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
• Interest in continuous improvement of machining processes and workflows.

Work Environment

This role is based in a design and prototype machining environment in Pasadena, CA, focused on automotive design, concept vehicles, and advanced styling projects. You will work primarily with multi-axis CNC milling machines, machining foam, model board, composites, and other non-ferrous materials using Powermill and other CAD/CAM tools. The setting is fast-paced and highly collaborative, with frequent interaction with designers, digital sculptors, clay modelers, and engineering teams. The workspace includes large-format CNC equipment, material handling tools such as forklifts or cranes where applicable, and inspection tools for verifying dimensional accuracy and surface quality. Safety procedures and housekeeping standards are emphasized, and you are expected to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while meeting demanding prototype schedules.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Pasadena, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Pasadena,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.