CNC Lathe Machinist

Hardware FYI; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Beehive Industries in Knoxville, TN seeks a CNC Lathe Machinist to support material testing in an aerospace manufacturing setting. You will operate a lathe and perform basic machining to prepare specimens for tensile testing, with training provided for equipment and procedures.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined with attention to detail, willing to learn, and able to follow instructions in a structured environment. No advanced CNC programming required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; foundational machining knowledge preferred.
• 0–1 year CNC machining or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Exposure to blueprint reading or basic inspection concepts is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate a lathe to perform basic machining operations on material specimens for tensile testing.
• Apply foundational machining knowledge to prepare specimens per requirements.
• Follow work instructions to ensure specimens are prepared accurately and consistently.
• Load, secure, and unload material from the lathe following safety procedures.
• Use calipers and micrometers to verify specimen dimensions.
• Inspect specimens for defects and ensure they meet requirements.
• Maintain records of preparation and testing activities.
• Perform routine equipment upkeep and keep an orderly, safe work area.
• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams on material testing.

Skills

Lathe operation

Blueprint reading exposure

Measurement tools usage

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Machining environment exposure

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Beehive Industries is dedicated to

Powering American Defense by revolutionizing the design, development, and delivery of jet propulsion systems to support the warfighter. Through the integration of additive manufacturing, the company aims to meet the growing and urgent needs for unmanned aerial defense by dramatically improving a jet engine’s speed to market, fuel efficiency, and cost.

Founded in 2020, the company is headquartered in Centennial, Colorado, with additional facilities in Knoxville, Tennessee, Loveland Ohio, and Mount Vernon, Ohio. Beehive is committed to grow and advance the defense industrial base while manufacturing exclusively in the USA. This role will be located at our Knoxville, Tennessee facility.

Role Overview

Beehive Industries is seeking a CNC Lathe Machinist to support material testing and quality activities within our aerospace manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for operating a lathe and performing basic machining operations to prepare material specimens for tensile testing. Candidates should have some foundational machining knowledge or hands‑on experience in a machine shop environment and be comfortable working with tools, equipment, and standard machining practices.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and interested in further developing their machining skills. This position does not require CNC programming or advanced machining capabilities. Training will be provided on the specific equipment, processes, and procedures used in the role.

What You’ll Do...

• Operate a lathe to perform basic machining operations on material specimens used for tensile testing.


• Apply foundational machining knowledge and practices to prepare specimens according to established requirements.


• Follow work instructions and established procedures to ensure specimens are prepared consistently and accurately


• Load, secure, and remove material from the lathe while following proper operating and safety procedures.


• Use basic measurement tools, such as calipers and micrometers, to verify specimen dimensions.


• Inspect completed specimens for visible defects and ensure they meet established requirements.


• Maintain accurate records of specimen preparation and testing activities.


• Perform routine equipment upkeep and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.


• Work closely with engineering and quality team members to support material testing activities.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

You have...

• High school diploma or equivalent experience.


• 0–1 years of CNC machining or manufacturing experience preferred


• Exposure to CNC mills, lathes, or machine shop environments through school, training, military, or entry‑level work


• Exposure to blueprint reading or basic inspection concepts a plus

Skills & Competencies

• Basic understanding of manufacturing or machining concepts with willingness to learn


• Ability to follow detailed instructions and work procedures


• Basic awareness of safety practices in a manufacturing environment


• Strong attention to detail and willingness to develop quality-focused work habits


• Good communication and teamwork skills


• Ability to work in a structured, supervised environment while building technical skills


• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Nice to have...

• Exposure to CNC machining or CAD/CAM software (SolidCAM, Mastercam, NX PowerMill, etc.)


• Interest in aerospace manufacturing or additive manufacturing processes


• Exposure to measurement tools or basic inspection techniques


• Familiarity with structured quality environments (ISO 9001 / AS9100)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout a manufacturing facility for extended periods during the workday.


• Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull materials and equipment weighing up to 45 pounds.


• Frequently use hands and fingers to operate machinery, tools, and computer equipment.


• Occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, and reach overhead.


• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment requiring appropriate PPE and adherence to safety protocols.


• Frequent use of computers and electronic devices to document production activities and communicate effectively with team members.

Beehive Industries offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes group Medical, Dental, Life,and Short and Long-Term disability coverage from day one. We also offer a generous 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a Company match.Every role at Beehive Industries is bonus eligible and will also receive equity in the company.

Beehive Industries is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminateon the basis ofrace, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.