CNC Operator (Swing or Weekend Shift)

RTCA; West Chatsworth (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k) with match

Paid time off

Shift differential

Discretionary bonus

Job summary

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturer with a long history of hands-on machining excellence. The CNC Operator I‑III role is onsite at our Chatsworth, CA facility, responsible for safe operation of CNC equipment, part quality, and collaboration with machinists and quality teams to maintain production standards.

We offer competitive compensation with swing and weekend shift differentials, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to grow in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC equipment in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and production documentation.
• Proficiency with standard measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges) for in‑process inspections.
• Experience assisting with machine setups, tool offsets, and basic troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce high‑quality parts with tight tolerances.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Basic computer/data entry skills.
• Commitment to safety in a machine shop environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC equipment safely and across multiple machines as assigned.
• Load/unload materials and support basic tooling setup as directed.
• Perform in‑process inspections and ensure parts meet quality requirements.
• Assist with machine setups, tool offsets, and troubleshooting as needed.
• Maintain accurate production records and documentation.
• Support lean manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist in training less experienced operators and maintain a clean work area.

Job description

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands‑on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

As a CNC Operator, you will support RTCA's precision manufacturing by safely operating CNC equipment and producing accurate, high-quality aerospace parts. You will build hands‑on experience with our machines, parts, and processes. Your attention to detail and collaboration with machinists and quality teams help maintain our production standards and keep operations running smoothly.

What you’ll be doing as a CNC Operator I-III:

• Working afull-time, onsiteposition at our Chatsworth, CA location. We offer a $2 shift differential for Swing Shift and a $3 shift differential for Weekend Shift.
• Safely operate CNC equipment, including operating multiple machines across a variety of machine types as assigned.
• Load and unload materials and parts, and support basic tooling setup as directed.
• Perform in-process and basic inspections to verify parts meet quality requirements.
• Perform minor deburring and part finishing activities as needed for part presentation and inspection.
• Assist with machine setups, tool offsets, and minor troubleshooting as capability develops.
• Maintain accurate production records and required documentation.
• Communicate issues and support smooth workflow, following all safety and quality procedures.
• Participate in 5S, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement activities.
• Support training and guidance of less experienced operators.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Prior experience operating CNC equipment in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions, routers, and production documentation.
• Ability to use standard measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges) to perform in-process inspections.
• Experience assisting with machine setups, tool offsets, and basic troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality parts, including more complex geometries and tighter-tolerance work.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Basic computer/data entry skills.
• Ability to work safely in a machine‑shop environment and follow all safety protocols.
• Ability to support training and guidance of less experienced operators.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Previous CNC Mill or Lathe operation experience in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
• Familiarity with production workflows and machine‑shop best practices.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience mentoring or supporting junior operators.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no‑cost employee‑only coverage plan
• HSA‑eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long‑term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off‑shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The CNC Operator Compensation range

for onsite California applicants is $20-$27 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.}

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affi… , or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.