CNC Machinist

Stark Aerospace Inc.; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Stark Aerospace Inc. in Mississippi seeks an experienced CNC Machinist to operate and maintain large bed and robotic milling machines, ensuring aerospace components meet tight tolerances.

You will read complex drawings, interpret GD&T, troubleshoot issues, perform first-article inspections, and collaborate with engineering and quality teams to optimize multi-axis programs and CAM workflows. Applicants should have 3+ years of CNC experience, completion of a CNC program or apprenticeship, and

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating CNC machines in a precision manufacturing environment: Experience with large bed or robotic CNC milling machines is strongly preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with proven troubleshooting skills, especially with aerospace grade metals and composite4s.
• Advanced ability to interpret engineering drawings with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) for aerospace and defense applications.
• Familiarity with CNC control systems (e.g. Fanuc, Siemens, Haas): experience with CAM software is a plus.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance techniques and basic machine diagnostics.
• Capable of working independently and prioritizing task in a fast-paced, quality-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain large bed and robotic CNC milling machines to produce high precision aerospace and defense components in accordance with tight tolerance specifications.
• Read, interpret, and apply complex aerospace technical drawings, blueprints, and CAD/CAM files to ensure machining accuracy.
• Troubleshoot machine malfunctions, setup discrepancies, and machining inefficiencies to minimize production downtime.
• Perform first-article inspections and continuous in-process quality checks using precision instruments including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and indicators.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality and production teams to address challenges related to complex geometries and specialized aerospace materials.
• Assist in developing, editing and optimizing CNC programs (G-code or CAM software), particularly for multi-axis machines, if experienced.
• Follow all aerospace manufacturing protocols, and maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work area.

Skills

CNC machining

GD&T knowledge

Troubleshooting

Engineering drawings interpretation

CAM software

Preventive maintenance

Education

High school diploma or GED

CNC machining program / trade school / apprenticeship

NIMS / HAAS certification (advantage)

Tools

Fanuc control systems

Siemens control systems

Haas control systems

CAM software

Job description

Description

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate and maintain large bed and robotic CNC milling machines to produce high precision aerospace and defense components in accordance with tight tolerance specifications.
• Read, interpret, and apply complex aerospace technical drawings, blueprints, and CAD/CAM files to ensure machining accuracy.
• Troubleshoot machine malfunctions, setup discrepancies, and machining inefficiencies to minimize production downtime.
• Perform first-article inspections and continuous in-process quality checks using precision instruments including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and indicators.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality and production teams to address challenges related to complex geometries and specialized aerospace materials.
• Assist in developing, editing and optimizing CNC programs (G-code or CAM software), particularly for multi-axis machines, if experienced.
• Follow all aerospace manufacturing protocols, and maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work area.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience operating CNC machines in a precision manufacturing environment: Experience with large bed or robotic CNC milling machines is strongly preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with proven troubleshooting skills, especially with aerospace grade metals and composite4s.
• Advanced ability to interpret engineering drawings with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) for aerospace and defense applications.
• Familiarity with CNC control systems (e.g. Fanuc, Siemens, Haas): experience with CAM software is a plus.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance techniques and basic machine diagnostics.
• Capable of working independently and prioritizing task in a fast-paced, quality-focused environment.

Education & Certifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a formal CNC machining program, trade school, or apprenticeship preferred.
• Additional certifications in precision machining or CNC programming (e.g. NIMS, HAAS certification) are a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stand for extended periods (10+ hours per shift)
• Ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and manual dexterity required.
• Visual acuity to read precision instruments and technical drawings.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection as required.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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