CNC Programmer & Machinist (Weapon Systems)

CoAspire; Manassas (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) with company match

PTO and Federal holidays

Job summary

A defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia is seeking a CNC programming and machining expert to join their team. This role involves advanced CNC programming, precision machining of high-tolerance components, and mentoring. Ideal candidates should have 2–8 years of experience in aerospace or high-precision machining environments, proficiency with Mastercam, and solid problem-solving skills. The company offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and a 401(k) with company match.

Qualifications

• 2–8 years of CNC programming and precision machining experience in aerospace/defense or equivalent.
• Solid proficiency with Mastercam or Siemens NX CAM and mastery of Haas or similar controls.
• U.S. citizenship and current Secret clearance or ability to obtain.
• Be capable of holding tight tolerances on difficult materials.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize complex CNC programs using Mastercam or similar.
• Conduct in-process inspections using CMM and ensure production conformance.
• Select tooling, fixtures, and cutting strategies for production.
• Support production line elements on an as-needed basis.

Skills

CNC programming

Precision machining

Problem-solving skills

Blueprint reading

Tools

Mastercam

Siemens NX CAM

CMM

Job description

CoAspire (https://www.coaspire.com) is a cutting‑edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, we're at the forefront of building reliable, affordable mass weapons that protect and empower our nation’s warfighters. Our tight‑knit team thrives in a collaborative environment where safety, quality, and work‑life balance come first with a focus on professional growth at our new 27,000+ sq. ft. facility. Join us to make a tangible impact on mission‑critical technology while enjoying Northern Virginia's vibrant community.

Position: You will serve as a CNC programming and machining expert for our weapon system production line. This hands‑on role combines advanced offline/online CNC programming, complex fabrication setups, and precision machining of tight‑tolerance flight‑critical parts (aluminum, titanium, stainless) while mentoring a small team of junior machinists.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize complex CNC programs (G‑code, conversational) using Mastercam, Siemens NX CAM, or similar for 3, 5 or greater‑axis mills and live‑tooling lathes.
• Select tooling, fixtures, speeds/feeds, and cutting strategies to achieve cycle‑time requirements for a variety of high‑value defense components.
• Perform full machine setup, prove‑out first articles, troubleshoot programs, and make real‑time adjustments to ensure conformance to production requirements.
• Machine precision components (tolerances ±0.0005" or tighter) for structures, propulsion interfaces, guidance sections, and warhead assemblies.
• Conduct in‑process inspections using CMM and precision machinist measurement tools; support FAI (AS9102) and source inspection.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers, QA engineers and technicians in support of process improvements to support threshold production rates.
• Maintain program libraries, tooling presets, and documentation in compliance with company and government specifications.
• Support other production line elements (warehousing, parts management, etc…) on an as‑needed basis.

Qualifications

• 2–8 years of combined CNC programming and precision machining experience in an aerospace/defense or equivalent high‑precision job shop.
• Solid proficiency with Mastercam (preferred), Siemens NX CAM, Esprit, or GibbsCAM; capable of offline programming from solid models (CREO, SolidWorks/NX).Hands‑on mastery of Haas, DMG MORI, Okuma, Mazak, or similar controls; experience with 5‑axis milling and mill‑turn essential.
• Proven ability to hold tight tolerances on difficult materials (titanium, hardened steels) in a low‑volume/high‑mix environment.
• GD&T (ASME Y14.5) interpretation, blueprint reading, and metrology skills (CMM programming a plus).
• Experience in AS9100D/ISO‑9001 shops producing ITAR‑controlled hardware; familiarity with FAI, MRB, and RCCA processes.
• U.S. citizenship and current Secret clearance (or the ability to obtain a clearance).
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently and lead small teams on the production floor.

Desired Skills

• Programming/operating Swiss‑turn (Citizen, Star, Tsugami) or multi‑axis grinding.
• Experience with missile, munition, or rocket motor component machining.
• Familiarity with Vericut simulation, electronic part probing and automated tool presetters.
• Trade school/apprenticeship completion or journeyman status.

What We Offer

• Full benefits from day one: medical, dental and vision.
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting.
• PTO and Federal holidays.

Apply now! We’re reviewing applications on a rolling basis. Let’s build the future together. No agencies, please.