5-Axis CNC Programmer 1st shift, Site 2

astspacemobile; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 62,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Relocation assistance

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a skilled 5-Axis CNC Programmer to support precision aerospace manufacturing in Midland, TX. You will develop and optimize CNC programs for multi‑axis machining centers, ensuring parts meet strict aerospace tolerances and quality standards.

The role requires 2–5+ years of experience, strong GD&T knowledge, and proficiency with CAD/CAM systems. Competitive hourly pay and a $10,000 sign‑on bonus to assist with relocation are offered.

Qualifications

• 2–5+ years of experience programming and operating 5-axis CNC machines in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Experience with precision measuring instruments and tool path optimization.

Responsibilities

• Program and operate 5-axis CNC machines to manufacture complex aerospace components with tight tolerances.
• Perform machine setup including tooling, fixtures, offsets, and work holding.
• Load and verify CNC programs, ensuring correct parameters and material selection.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Interpret blueprints and perform inspections to ensure aerospace tolerances are met.

Skills

5-axis CNC programming

Blueprint reading

Quality control

Setup and tooling

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Mastercam

CAD/CAM

G-code

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

This position is based in our satellite production facility in Midland, TX .

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet - on land, at sea and in flight.

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented 5-Axis CNC Programmer to support precision manufacturing operations within our satellite production facility. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs for complex aerospace components using 5-axis machining centers. The ideal candidate will have strong experience with multi‑axis CNC programming, machining strategies, tooling selection, blueprint interpretation, and precision manufacturing processes in a fast‑paced production environment.

The 5-Axis CNC Programmer will collaborate closely with manufacturing engineers, machinists, quality teams, and production leadership to ensure parts are produced accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with engineering specifications and aerospace quality standards. Responsibilities include creating and modifying CNC programs, supporting machine set‑up and troubleshooting, optimizing cycle times, validating tooling paths, and assisting with continuous improvement initiatives to maximize machining performance and production efficiency. Strong knowledge of GD&T, CAD/CAM software, tooling, feeds and speeds, and precision measurement practices is highly preferred.

Hourly Pay Rate: $45.00 -$55.00/hr

$10,000 sign on bonus to assist with relocation.

Work Schedule

• Standard: Monday-Thursday (4x10 schedule aligned with AST operations)
• Overtime as required based on production demands

Position Summary

The 5-Axis CNC Programmer is responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining multi‑axis CNC machining centers to produce high‑precision aerospace components. This role ensures all parts are manufactured in compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, and production schedules in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

What you'll do:

• Machine Programmer /Operation & Setup
  • Program and Operate 5-axis CNC machines to manufacture complex aerospace components with tight tolerances
  • Perform machine setup including tooling, fixtures, offsets, and work holding
  • Load and verify CNC programs, ensuring correct parameters and material selection
  • Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency
• Production & Quality
  • Interpret blueprints, GD&T, technical drawings, and work instructions
  • Perform first article, in‑process, and final inspections using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
  • Ensure parts meet strict aerospace tolerances and quality standards
  • Document and report non‑conforming parts per quality procedures
• Process Control & Troubleshooting
  • Identify machining issues (tool wear, chatter, offsets) and implement corrective actions
  • Optimize feeds, speeds, and tool paths for efficiency and quality
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and process optimization
• Maintenance & Safety
  • Perform routine preventative maintenance (lubrication, coolant checks, cleaning)
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
  • Follow all OSHA, company safety, and aerospace compliance standards
• Collaboration & Documentation
  • Work closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve issues
  • Complete job travelers, ERP entries, and production documentation accurately
  • Support training of junior programmers when required

What you bring:

• High school diploma or GED (technical certification preferred)
• 2-5+ years of experience Programming and operating 5-axis CNC machines in a manufacturing environment
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T
• Experience with precision measuring instruments
• Ability to perform machine setups independently
• Strong attention to detail and quality focus

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM systems, G-code, Mastercam
• Experience machining aluminum, composites, or aerospace alloys
• Post processor development

Skills & Competencies

• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability
• Ability to operate multiple machines simultaneously
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, and materials
• Time management and ability to meet pro