5-Axis CNC Machinist — Aerospace & Defense Precision

Karman Space & Defense; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k)

Paid time off

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Life and AD&D insurance

Short- and long-term disability

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense in Santa Ana, CA, is seeking a 5 Axis CNC Machinist to operate advanced CNC centers, prepare materials and tooling, and work with programmers to reduce setup time while meeting strict aerospace and defense specifications. Candidates must read blueprints, understand 5‑axis setups, and follow AS9100 quality procedures.

The role requires safe, efficient manufacturing practices and collaboration with production leadership.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and applicable work experience.
• Previous experience operating CNC machining equipment in a precision manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating 5-axis CNC machining equipment.
• Experience with Siemens 840D and Fanuc 31i-B5 controls.
• Strong blueprint-reading and interpretation skills.
• Strong understanding of CNC machine setups, tooling, cutters, fixtures, and machining processes.
• Working knowledge of Quality Management System (QMS) procedures, reporting, documentation, and recordkeeping requirements.
• Ability to consistently follow established manufacturing, quality, and safety procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with employees and leadership at all levels.
• Experience working within an AS9100-regulated aerospace or defense manufacturing environment.
• Training related to applicable process changes and customer-specific requirements.
• Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives in a precision manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate 5-axis CNC machining centers safely and efficiently to manufacture precision components.
• Prepare CNC equipment by ensuring materials, tooling, cutters, programs, and fixtures are available and properly maintained.
• Collaborate with programmers to reduce setup time and improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Coordinate with management to prioritize machine schedules and support production requirements.
• Interpret manufacturing requirements and identify quality, production, or scheduling concerns for escalation to management.
• Perform routine CNC machine maintenance and maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas.
• Identify tooling and cutter requirements and coordinate ordering as needed to support machining operations.
• Follow AS9100 procedures, Quality Management System requirements, and established manufacturing standards.
• Understand the impact of product conformity and product safety on customer requirements and mission success.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and perform additional machining-related duties as assigned.

Job description

Karman Space & Defense in Santa Ana, CA, is seeking a 5 Axis CNC Machinist to operate advanced CNC centers, prepare materials and tooling, and work with programmers to reduce setup time while meeting strict aerospace and defense specifications. Candidates must read blueprints, understand 5‑axis setups, and follow AS9100 quality procedures.

The role requires safe, efficient manufacturing practices and collaboration with production leadership.