Founding Manufacturing Engineer (Large Format CNC Machining), Special Projects Division

ZipRecruiter; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a founding member for its Special Projects division, focusing on cutting-edge R&D and advanced production capabilities. This role involves leading CNC machining processes and collaborating with engineering teams to enhance manufacturing efficiency. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in CNC systems and a strong background in engineering. Join a passionate team dedicated to revolutionizing manufacturing for aerospace and defense industries, where your contributions will directly impact the future of technology and production.

Benefits

100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

401(k) plan

Relocation stipend

Flexible vacation policy

Qualifications

• Deep technical expertise in large-format CNC machining.
• Experience in developing and scaling machining processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and optimization of CNC machining processes.
• Collaborate with teams to integrate machining into production systems.

Skills

CNC machining

Automation

Communication skills

R&D initiatives

Education

Mechanical Engineering

Manufacturing Engineering

Job description

Job Description

Hadrian - Manufacturing the Future

Hadrian is building autonomous factories that help aerospace and defense companies make rockets, jets, and satellites 10x faster and 2x cheaper. Our CEO, Chris Power, discusses the importance of what we're building in this video.

We are a lean but mighty team (and growing!) of passionate people dedicated to building critical infrastructure to support the nation and the advancement of humanity.

We've raised over $200 million through multiple funding rounds from investors such as Lux Capital, A16Z, Founders Fund, Construct Capital, Caffeinated Capital, and others.

We leverage AI and Robotics to automate and scale factories that are cost-competitive globally and resilient to the skilled labor shortages facing the Advanced Industrial Base.

Hadrian collaborates with startups, primes, and Tier 1/2 suppliers across various markets to reduce costs, scale operations, or enable critical production programs in Rocketry, Satellites, Shipbuilding, Commercial and Military aircraft, and other core industries.

The Role

You will be a founding member of Hadrian’s new Special Projects division, working directly with the CEO and engineering leadership. This division focuses on ambitious R&D projects and exploring new business opportunities.

This foundational role involves leading and supporting the development of advanced production capabilities across industrial applications, emphasizing automation, efficiency, and innovation.

You will work with engineering, operations, and software teams to implement large component machining processes and assist in facility development and technical execution.

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Lead the design, setup, and optimization of large-format CNC machining processes for large-scale manufacturing applications.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate machining into broader production and automation systems.
• Develop fixturing, tooling, and programming strategies that support precision, scalability, and cost-efficiency.
• Contribute to CapEx planning and facility build-out decisions for new production capabilities.
• Provide on-site and remote technical support, with occasional travel to client or partner locations as needed.

What We’re Looking For:

• Deep technical expertise in large-format CNC machining across various materials and part sizes.
• Proven experience in developing and scaling machining processes from prototype to high-volume production.
• Familiarity with end-to-end CNC systems, including programming, fixturing, and automation opportunities.
• Ability to drive long-term R&D initiatives with minimal oversight.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

What will set you apart:

• Formal education in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Proficiency in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and GD&T, with the ability to communicate trade-offs clearly.
• Experience collaborating across functions such as design, quality, robotics, and controls engineering.
• Knowledge of advanced materials, including high-temperature and lightweight alloys like aluminum, titanium, and nickel-based superalloys.

Benefits:

• 100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees.
• 401(k) plan.
• Relocation stipend if moving from outside LA.
• Flexible vacation policy.

It is the policy of Hadrian Automation, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

ITAR Requirements

To comply with 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. Learn more about ITAR here.