CNC Machinist & Programmer

Trueanomalyinc; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 44,083 - 123,984; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Health, Dental, Vision benefits

401K plan

Parental Leave

Paid time off

Job summary

Trueanomalyinc is seeking a dedicated CNC Machinist in Long Beach, California. The successful candidate will manage the machine shop and drive innovative aerospace component production. Responsibilities include setting up CNC machines and collaborating closely with engineers on prototypes and fabrication.

Qualifications include extensive CNC machining and CAM programming experience. Preferred skills involve prior aerospace manufacturing experience. Competitive hourly pay is provided, ranging from $32 to $90 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency in 5-axis milling and multi-axis programming.
• Ability to develop and optimize toolpaths for complex parts.
• Experience with precision aerospace components.

Responsibilities

• Set up, program, and operate CNC machines.
• Partner with engineers on R&D prototypes.
• Lead the build-out of the machine shop.

Skills

CNC machining experience

Strong CAM experience

Proven track record in R&D environment

Reading engineering drawings

Metrology skills

Strong communication skills

Tools

Mastercam

Esprit

HyperMill

Job description

OUR MISSION

True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.

OUR VALUES

• Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
• What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
• It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.

YOUR MISSION

AsaCNC Machinist in Long Beach, you will be foundational to how we build hardware that operates in the most contested environment humanity has ever faced — space. In this role, you will own standing up and expanding our machine shop, selecting tooling, and establishing the processes and standards that will define our machining culture. You will work shoulder‑to‑shoulder with our engineering team to push the boundaries of what’s manufacturable, with a heavy emphasis on R&D prototyping and rapid iteration. If you’re someone who thrives in the earliest stages of building something consequential, this is your seat.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Machining & Fabrication: Set up, program, and operate 5‑axis CNC mills, lathes, and other CNC machines to produce precision aerospace components from engineering drawings and models in a fast‑paced R&D environment.
• CAM Programming: Develop and optimize toolpaths using Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill for complex multi‑axis parts. Own the full programming workflow from model import to proven first article.
• R&D Prototyping: Partner directly with engineers to rapidly iterate on prototype hardware — from concept to hardware, bringing a machinist’s eye to early‑stage designs and help engineering understand what’s possible and what’s not.
• Machine Shop Build‑Out: Play a lead role in laying out and standing up the machine shop — specifying and purchasing machines, tooling, fixturing, metrology equipment, and consumables to support current and future production needs.
• DFM Collaboration: Provide deep design‑for‑manufacturability input on new parts and assemblies. Engage early in the design cycle to reduce cost, lead time, and complexity without sacrificing performance.
• Quality & Standards: Maintain tight tolerances and impeccable workmanship standards. Inspect own work using metrology tools (calipers, micrometers, CMM, etc.) and ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
• Cross‑Functional Integration: Work closely with structures, propulsion, avionics, and test teams to ensure machined components integrate cleanly into the broader vehicle architecture.

QUALIFICATIONS

• CNC machining experience, with demonstrated proficiency in 5‑axis milling and complex multi‑axis programming
• Strong CAM experience in Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill— you write your own programs and know why each toolpath decision matters
• Proven track record in an R&D or prototype‑heavy environment where no two parts are the same
• Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D CAD models (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)
• Experience with a broad range of materials including aluminum alloys, titanium, stainless steel, and advanced composites
• Strong metrology skills and familiarity with inspection equipment and methods
• Ability to work autonomously and make sound decisions with minimal supervision
• Strong written and verbal communication skills — you can clearly articulate a DFM concern or a tooling recommendation to an engineer who has never touched a machine

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or space hardware manufacturing
• Prior involvement in machine shop build‑outs, equipment procurement, or facility stand‑up
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and 5S principles
• Experience with turning, EDM, surface grinding, or other complementary processes
• Exposure to cleanroom protocols, FOD/ESD awareness, and aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR)
• Background in fixture design and development for complex geometries

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Machinist Level 1: $32‑50/hr
Machinist Level 2: $40‑60/hr
Machinist Level 3: $45‑75/hr
Senior Machinist: $55‑90/hr

• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401 K, Parental Leave

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job‑related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work Location: Successful candidates will be located near Long Beach, CA.
• Work Environment: Temperature, noise level, indoor or outdoor, or other factors that affect the working conditions while performing the job.
• Physical Demands: Bending, sitting, lifting, driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled.

EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.