CNC Programmer & Machinist (3- Axis & 5-Axis Okuma)

Space Kinetic; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Equity-based compensation

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Health and wellness stipend

Job summary

Space Kinetic in El Segundo, CA is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer & Machinist to manufacture critical parts for rapid prototyping. This role involves programming 3-axis to 7-axis CNC machines and mentoring junior machinists.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 8 years as a machinist, expertise in Mastercam, and knowledge of aerospace tolerances. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $100,000 to $160,000 along with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience as a machinist.
• Proficient in Mastercam or similar CAM package.
• Extensive experience with 3-axis CNC mills and lathes.
• Ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Government Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Program 3, 5, or 7-axis CNC mills and lathes.
• Set up and operate multiple Okuma CNC machines.
• Create setups for complex aerospace parts.

Skills

CNC programming

3-axis and 5-axis machining

CAM programming in Mastercam

Aerospace tolerances

Mentoring and training

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Job description

CNC Programmer & Machinist (3-Axis & 5-Axis Okuma)

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

About Space Kinetic

Space Kinetic is a cleared, venture‑backed startup focused on addressing urgent national security priorities. Our goal is to deliver asymmetric capabilities for space superiority and missile defense through a proprietary electromechanical deployment system that enables rapid deployment of low‑cost payloads into space without firing a thruster.

What You’ll Do

The CNC Machinist will manufacture and assemble parts critical for the rapid prototyping of Space Kinetic’s core technology. You will generate CAM packages, program 3–5‑axis CNC mills and lathes, and operate Okuma machines to produce essential components for the next prototype iteration. This is a contract position supporting the engineering team toward flight readiness.

Responsibilities

• Program 3, 5, or 7‑axis CNC mills and lathes in Mastercam or equivalent CAM software.
• Set up and operate Okuma Multus B300 Millturn, Okuma Genos M560V‑5AX, and Okuma Genos M660 CNC machines.
• Create precise setups for complex parts while maintaining aerospace tolerances.
• Mentor and train junior machinists.
• Deliver projects on schedule and drive team success.
• Apply strong analytical and problem‑solving skills to work independently.
• Communicate effectively in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years as a machinist.
• Proficiency in Mastercam (or similar CAM package).
• Extensive experience with 3‑axis CNC mills and lathes; 5‑axis CNC mills and mill‑turn lathes preferred.
• Knowledge of aerospace tolerances.
• Leadership experience training machinists.
• Track record of meeting project milestones and driving team success.
• Strong analytical and independent work capability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent resident, or eligible to obtain required authorizations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

Location

The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary ($100,000–$160,000) + equity‑based compensation.
• Highly competitive PTO and holiday calendar.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Health and wellness stipend.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

ITAR Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, the applicant must be either a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), refugee, or asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.