Journeyman Machinist - Metal Machine Shop

Lanteris Space LLC; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 53,000 - 89,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Health insurance

401(k)

Job summary

Lanteris Space Systems in San Jose, CA, is seeking an experienced Journeyman Machinist to join our aerospace manufacturing team. You will independently program, set up, and operate manual mills, lathes, and 3-axis CNC mills to produce precision aerospace components from aluminum, titanium, steel, and copper.

The role requires proven CNC programming skills (G-code, conversational, or CAM), GD&T knowledge, and the ability to read drawings and inspect parts to tight tolerances.

Qualifications

• Hire must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Journeyman-level machinist with an apprenticeship or equivalent experience (typically 10 years).
• Proven ability to write CNC programs for 3-axis vertical mills using G-code, conversational programming, or CAM.
• Hands-on experience setting up and running manual mills and lathes.
• Experience machining aluminum, titanium, steel, and copper.
• Blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge.
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods.
• Shop math and trigonometry skills; able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Write, edit, and optimize CNC programs for 3-axis vertical mills from drawings and process docs.
• Set up and operate 3-axis CNC vertical machining centers.
• Set up and operate manual mills and manual lathes to produce precision parts and fixtures.
• Machine materials including aluminum, titanium, steel, and copper with proper speeds/feeds.
• Interpret drawings and GD&T to determine setups and inspections.
• Perform in-process inspection using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, and CMM as required.
• Verify first-article parts and adjust to meet tolerances and surface finish.
• Maintain clean, safe work area in compliance with 5S and safety standards.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and report issues promptly.
• Support continuous improvement with process/tooling/programming improvements.

Skills

CNC programming

3-axis milling

Manual milling & turning

GD&T & inspection

Blueprint reading

Education

Journeyman machinist apprenticeship or equivalent

Job description

Please review the job details below. Lanteris Space Systems is seeking an experienced Journeyman Machinist to join our aerospace manufacturing team in San Jose, California.

The ideal candidate is a skilled, self-directed tradesperson who can independently program, set up, and operate manual mills, manual lathes, and 3-axis CNC vertical mills. You will machine precision aerospace components from aluminum, titanium, steel, and copper to tight tolerances while meeting strict quality and documentation standards. This role requires journeyman-level skill, sound judgment, and a commitment to quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Write, edit, and optimize CNC programs for 3-axis vertical mills from engineering drawings, models, and process documentation
• Set up and operate 3-axis CNC vertical machining centers.
• Set up and operate manual mills and manual lathes to produce precision parts, fixtures, and one-off or low-volume components
• Machine a variety of materials, including aluminum, titanium, steel, and copper, selecting appropriate speeds, feeds, tooling, and coolant for each
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T to determine setups, operations, and inspection requirements
• Perform in-process inspection using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, and CMM as required
• Verify first-article parts and make adjustments to maintain tolerances and surface finish requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with 5S and company safety standards
• Perform routine machine maintenance and report equipment issues promptly
• Support continuous improvement by recommending process, tooling, and programming improvements

Minimum Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• High school diploma or GED
• Journeyman-level machinist status, with a completed apprenticeship or equivalent documented experience (typically 10 years of machining experience)
• Proven ability to write CNC programs for 3-axis vertical mills using G-code, conversational programming ("e.g., Hurco WinMax"), and/or CAM
• Hands-on experience setting up and running manual mills and manual lathes
• Experience machining aluminum, titanium, steel, and copper
• Blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge
• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods
• Shop math and trigonometry skills
• Ability to work to tight tolerances and maintain consistent quality
• Ability to lift up to [50] lbs and stand for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and aerospace documentation requirements
• Experience with common CNC controls ("e.g., Fanuc, Haas, Mazak, or similar")
• Experience with titanium machining strategies, including tool life management and heat control
• Technical or trade school certification
• Attention to detail and a quality‑first mindset
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills
• Clear communication and teamwork
• Adaptability across varied part types and production volumes

In support of pay transparency at Lanteris Space Systems, we disclose salary ranges on all U.S. job postings. The successful candidate’s starting pay will fall within the salary range provided below and is determined based on job-related factors, including, but not limited to, the experience, qualifications, knowledge, skills, geographic work location, and market conditions. Candidates with the minimum necessary experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skillsets for the position should not expect to receive the upper end of the pay range.

The base pay for this position within California is: $38.81 - $64.69 hourly.

• Paid time off, health and welfare insurance, and 401(k) to eligible employees

Lanteris Space Systems values diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.