Aerospace CNC Lathe Machinist - 1st Shift

Karman Space & Defense; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Machinist for 1st shift in Santa Ana, CA. You will set up and operate CNC lathes to produce aerospace components, interpret drawings and GD&T, and verify dimensions throughout production.

Responsibilities include tooling setup, program loading and edits, in-process inspection, and adherence to quality standards. Join a team focused on precision, safety, and continuous improvement in a high-stakes industry.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years CNC lathe machining experience, preferably in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
• Strong CNC lathe setup and operating skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Knowledge of cutting tools, inserts, feeds, speeds, and work holding.
• Ability to perform precision measurements and dimensional inspections.
• Basic understanding of CNC G-code and M-code.
• Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work to tight tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Sets up and operates CNC lathes and turning centers to manufacture precision aerospace components.
• Interprets engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T, and process documentation.
• Sets up tooling, work holding, inserts, offsets, and cutting parameters.
• Loads, verifies, and edits CNC programs.
• Adjusts tool offsets and monitors cutting conditions to maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Machines components from aerospace materials (aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel).
• Performs first-piece, in-process, and final inspections with precision measuring equipment.
• Uses micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, thread gauges, height gauges.
• Troubleshoots dimensional, tooling, surface-finish, and machining issues.
• Maintains production, inspection, and traceability records.
• Follows aerospace quality standards, company procedures, and safety requirements.
• Maintains machines, tooling, fixtures, and work areas in a clean and safe condition.
• Collaborates with Quality and Manufacturing Supervisor to resolve issues.
• Participates in continuous improvement activities to enhance productivity and machining efficiency.

Skills

CNC lathe operation

Reading drawings

GD&T understanding

Precision measurement

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Mori Seiki controls

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Machinist for 1st shift in Santa Ana, CA. You will set up and operate CNC lathes to produce aerospace components, interpret drawings and GD&T, and verify dimensions throughout production.

Responsibilities include tooling setup, program loading and edits, in-process inspection, and adherence to quality standards. Join a team focused on precision, safety, and continuous improvement in a high-stakes industry.