Lead CNC Machinist, Spacecraft Propulsion

Telemetry Today LLC; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Medical benefits

Dental

Vision

Generous leave

HSA

401(k) matching

Equity participation

Job summary

Quantum Space in Hawthorne, CA, seeks an experienced Lead Machinist to oversee a high‑precision CNC shop for Ranger spacecraft components. You will lead machinists and quality inspectors, set up multi‑axis mills and lathes, and drive repeatable processes from first article to production.

You will partner with design and manufacturing engineers to ensure manufacturability, tight tolerances, and efficient tooling. This role anchors production readiness and cross‑site transfers.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience with G-code, setup, operation, and/or programming of CNC mills and lathes.
• 3+ years of experience machining to tolerances of ±0.0005" or tighter with precision inspection.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, models, and GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
• Hands-on leadership in a machine shop environment with a focus on safety and quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of machinists and quality inspectors; set priorities and manage shop schedule.
• Set up, program, and operate multi-axis CNC mills and lathes for propulsion and structural parts.
• Hold tight tolerances and surface finishes on flight hardware; perform first articles and in-process inspection.
• Review drawings and GD&T; provide manufacturability feedback to design and engineering teams.
• Design and build fixtures, soft jaws, and workholding for repeatable production.
• Write setup sheets and work instructions; cross-train team in CNC setup and inspection.
• Own tooling inventory and preventive maintenance; enforce shop safety and traceability.
• Document machining processes to enable transfer to Tulsa facility.

Skills

Team leadership

Mentoring

Clear communication

Problem solving

Reading engineering drawings

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

G-code programming

Mastercam

Fusion 360

NX

SolidWorks

Creo

CMM programming

Job description

Quantum Space in Hawthorne, CA, seeks an experienced Lead Machinist to oversee a high‑precision CNC shop for Ranger spacecraft components. You will lead machinists and quality inspectors, set up multi‑axis mills and lathes, and drive repeatable processes from first article to production.

You will partner with design and manufacturing engineers to ensure manufacturability, tight tolerances, and efficient tooling. This role anchors production readiness and cross‑site transfers.