CNC Programmer (Starship Components) - Level 4/5 (2nd Shift)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 62,680 - 86,788; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid parental leave

3 weeks of paid vacation

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP in Hawthorne, CA is seeking a skilled CNC Programmer (Level 4/5) to develop solutions for advanced space technology. You will be responsible for programming Okuma mill-turn lathes and working collaboratively with engineering teams, ensuring optimized machining processes.

Ideal candidates will bring at least 5 years of experience, proficiency in Esprit CAM, and a solid understanding of complex part geometries. This role offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, along with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC machining experience.
• 2+ years of CNC programming experience.
• Understanding of geometry, algebra, and trigonometry.

Responsibilities

• Program and generate G-Code for Okuma mill-turn lathes.
• Create tooling and process setup sheets for new part introductions.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with engineering to recommend and implement changes.

Skills

CNC Programming

Esprit CAM Software

Advanced Machining Processes

Blueprint Interpretation

Multi-axis Operations

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Tools

Okuma Mill-Turn Lathes

Job description

CNC Programmer (Starship Components) - Level 4/5 (2nd Shift)

Hawthorne, CA

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

Overview

As a CNC Programmer at SpaceX, you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop novel solutions at the cutting edge of space technology. You will work on hardware that will deliver satellites into Earth orbit, ferry humans to and from the International Space Station, and ultimately extend humanity’s reach beyond the Earth and Moon. You will provide input into the design and development of new and existing hardware and take a lead role in creating robust machining processes to create parts for our current and next generation vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Use Esprit CAM to program and generate G‑Code for Okuma mill‑turn lathes and mills, with a focus on optimizing complex, multi‑axis programs
• Create and refine tooling and process setup sheets for new part introductions, incorporating lessons learned from prior iterations
• Set‑up, prove out, and operate programs on Okuma mill‑turn lathes and mills, troubleshooting issues independently to minimize downtime
• Contribute to the development and utilization of a CAM database for efficient new part programming, including data analysis to improve repeatability
• Review quality concerns from piece part inspection, lead root‑cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to processes
• Analyze part parts for DFM to ensure optimization for manufacturing; collaborate closely with engineering to recommend and implement drawing changes
• Integrate feedback from engineering and production to rapidly iterate on part processes and designs, mentoring junior programmers on best practices
• Pursue and share continuous education opportunities; stay up to date on the latest manufacturing technologies and integrate them into team workflows
• Proactively keep products moving, identify potential production inhibitors early, and propose solutions to management
• Maintain physical 5S and electronic organization with adherence to shop/SpaceX standards; assist in developing and enforcing standards for broader team adoption
• Collaborate with other SpaceX machine shop facilities to share capabilities, optimize resource allocation, and resolve capacity/scheduling challenges

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 5+ years of CNC machining experience
• 2+ years of CNC programming experience

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Understanding of advanced machining processes and equipment, including integration of automation
• Proficiency in CNC programming using Esprit CAM software, with experience in custom post‑processing
• Solid knowledge of geometry, algebra, and trigonometry applied to complex part geometries
• Experience reading blueprints and interpreting all drawing criteria, notes, and GD&T with high accuracy
• Familiarity with Okuma OSP controls and troubleshooting multi‑axis operations
• Experience programming multi‑axis lathes and mills, including 4‑ and 5‑axis applications
• Demonstrated ability to assess personal and team performance, seek feedback, pursue training, and share expertise to build team capabilities
• Proactive approach to quality improvement, with a track record of accuracy, thoroughness, and process enhancements
• Experience drafting detailed instructions, such as safety protocols, operating/maintenance guides, and procedural manuals
• Strong skills in routine and technical correspondence to facilitate clear communication across teams

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work one the 2nd shift, overtime, and weekends as needed:
  • 2nd shift start time is 3:00 PM
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Ability to work with your hands and use tools/controls
• Must be willing to work in an environment that is in close proximity to loud machinery and in a facility that uses coolants, solvents, and cleaners regularly

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Range:

• Level 4: $45.50 - $56.00
• Level 5: $51.00 - $63.00

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, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short‑ and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful, permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. §1157, Asylee under 8 U.S.C. §1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or who require reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].