True Anomaly
CNC Machinist & Programmer
2d ago
USAcnc programmingmachiningfabricationr&d prototypingtooling selection
Responsible for setting up and expanding the machine shop, selecting tooling, and establishing machining processes and standards for space hardware manufacturing.
Responsibilities
- As a CNC Machinist in Long Beach, you will be foundational to how we build hardware that operates in the most contested environment humanity has ever faced — space. In this role, you will own standing up and expanding our machine shop, selecting tooling, and establishing the processes and standards that will define our machining culture. You will work shoulder-to-shoulder with our engineering team to push the boundaries of what's manufacturable, with a heavy emphasis on R&D prototyping and rapid iteration. If you're someone who thrives in the earliest stages of building something consequential, this is your seat. RESPONSIBILITIES
- Machining & Fabrication: Set up, program, and operate 5-axis CNC mills, lathes, and other CNC machines to produce precision aerospace components from engineering drawings and models in a fast-paced R&D environment.
- CAM Programming: Develop and optimize toolpaths using Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill for complex multi-axis parts. Own the full programming workflow from model import to proven first article.
- R&D Prototyping: Partner directly with engineers to rapidly iterate on prototype hardware — from concept to hardware, bringing a machinist's eye to early-stage designs and help engineering understand what's possible and what's not.
- Machine Shop Build-Out: Play a lead role in laying out and standing up the machine shop — specifying and purchasing machines, tooling, fixturing, metrology equipment, and consumables to support current and future production needs.
- DFM Collaboration: Provide deep design-for-manufacturability input on new parts and assemblies. Engage early in the design cycle to reduce cost, lead time, and complexity without sacrificing performance.
- Quality & Standards: Maintain tight tolerances and impeccable workmanship standards. Inspect own work using metrology tools (calipers, micrometers, CMM, etc.) and ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
- Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with structures, propulsion, avionics, and test teams to ensure machined components integrate cleanly into the broader vehicle architecture.
- QUALIFICATIONS
- CNC machining experience, with demonstrated proficiency in 5-axis milling and complex multi-axis programming
- Strong CAM experience in Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill — you write your own programs and know why each toolpath decision matters
- Proven track record in an R&D or prototype-heavy environment where no two parts are the same
- Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D CAD models (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)
- Experience with a broad range of materials including aluminum alloys, titanium, stainless steel, and advanced composites
- Strong metrology skills and familiarity with inspection equipment and methods
- Ability to work autonomously and make sound decisions with minimal supervision
- Strong written and verbal communication skills — you can clearly articulate a DFM concern or a tooling recommendation to an engineer who has never touched a machine
- PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or space hardware manufacturing
- Prior involvement in machine shop build-outs, equipment procurement, or facility stand-up
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing and 5S principles
- Experience with turning, EDM, surface grinding, or other complementary processes
- Exposure to cleanroom protocols, FOD/ESD awareness, and aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR)
- Background in fixture design and development for complex geometries
Requirements
- Work Location —Successful candidates will be located near Long Beach, CA.
- Work environment —the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
- Physical demands —the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.
- This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite
- To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
- True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.
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Conditions
- Machinist Level 1: $32-41/hr
- Machinist Level 2: $40-55/hr
- Machinist Level 3: $45-60/hr
- Senior Machinist: $55-70/hr
- Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave
- Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.
Other
- Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.
- OUR MISSION
- True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.
- OUR VALUES
- Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
- What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
- It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.