CNC Machinist III

blueorigin; Longmont (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Origin's Honeybee Robotics division in Colorado seeks a skilled machinist/NC programmer to produce aerospace components. You will program, set up, and operate advanced CNC machines to create high-tolerance parts, interpret complex drawings, and work with MasterCAM for optimized processes.

Ideal candidates have 7+ years in aerospace machining, experience with 3–5 axis CNCs, and a strong background in GD&T and AS9100 practices.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience machining aerospace components.
• Experience with aluminum, titanium, and stainless steels in aerospace contexts.
• 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC programming/setup/operation (horizontal and vertical).
• Live tooling and multi-axis lathe/milling experience.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate CNC machines to manufacture aerospace components with tight tolerances.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings and manufacturing instructions to ensure precision parts.
• Program and optimize machine operations using MasterCAM and manual programming.
• Perform in-process inspection with precision measuring tools and adapt processes as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, select tools, and optimize fixtures and processes.
• Mentor and train junior machinists and collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturability.
• Maintain detailed process documentation and ensure compliance with AS9100 standards.

Skills

GD&T reading

Blueprint interpretation

MasterCAM programming

Quality documentation

Education

Associate degree or technical certification in Machining/Manufacturing

Tools

Okuma lathe

Okuma mills

OSP control

MasterCAM

Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

As a member of the Blue Origin family of companies, Honeybee Robotics has been at the forefront of robotics for over 40 years. Our Colorado location specializes in creating advanced motion control solutions for NASA, defense, and commercial programs. Our work has played a critical role in thousands of projects, spanning from conceptual design studies to flight missions, including NASA's Artemis I Mission and the Roman Space Telescope. We are seeking technically brilliant individuals who are passionate about their work, thrive in collaborative environments, and have a laser focus on the details that drive excellence.

As part of a hardworking team of Machinists and NC Programmers you will program, set up, operate and maintain world-class, state-of-the-art CNC machines to fabricate components for various spaceflight systems. You will share in the team’s impact on all aspects of CNC machining and fabrication. You will be responsible for setting up and operating a variety of CNC machines and equipment to produce accurate components enabling first article success on tight tolerance, high value parts.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Program, set up, and operate a variety of advanced CNC machine tools (multi-axis mills, multi axis lathes with live tooling capability, and grinding equipment) to manufacture complex aerospace components in a high mix/low volume production environment
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturing instructions to produce precision parts with tight tolerances (often to +/- 0.0005" or better)
• Program, edit, and optimize CNC machine operations using MasterCAM software and manual programming techniques
• Perform complex in-process inspection using precision measuring instruments including height gauges, micrometers, and other specialized measuring equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues independently, including tool selection, fixture challenges, and process optimization
• Familiarity machining the following materials: aluminum, annealed stainless steels, plastics, copper, brass, and titanium.
• Develop and document optimal machining processes for new components to ensure repeatability and quality
• Mentor and train lower-level machinists, providing technical guidance and expertise
• Collaborate with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and provide feedback on design modifications
• Maintain detailed documentation of machine processes, setups, and quality records
• Ensure compliance with AS9100 quality standards and Blue Origin's manufacturing protocols

Qualifications:

• Passion for our mission: Millions of people living and working in space!
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in machining aerospace components.
• Experience machining the following materials: Aluminum, titanium, annealed stainless steels, nickel-based stainless-steel alloys, copper, plastics, and brass.
• Experience with programming/setup/ and operating 3, 4 and 5 axis CNC machining (Horizontal and Vertical)
• Working knowledge of multi-axis lathe machining and live tooling deployment
• Excellent blueprint reading skills including GD&T per ASME Y14.5M-1994 standard
• Strong computer skills
• Ability to provide Design for Manufacturing feedback
• Must be physically able to climb ladders, stairs, work in small/restricted areas, and lift and carry 25 lbs.
• Must be able to work overtime when necessary.
• Perform other duties as necessary

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading a team of machinists and managing work in the shop
• Associate's degree or technical certification in Machining, Manufacturing Technology, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing environments
• Extensive experience Okuma lathes and mills
• Working knowledge of Okuma OSP suite control operation/navigation (both P300 and P500)
• Experience with MBD
• Experience with thin-wall machining of complex aerospace components
• Experience with OD and ID grinding machine processes
• Experience with CNC automation (i.e. Bar feeders, Pallet Changers, Robotic loaders, etc.)

Special Mentions:

• Expected hours from 8AM to