Machinist

MLOptic; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

MLOptic is seeking an experienced Machinist for its prototype machine shop in Sunnyvale, CA. The role involves machining, fabricating, inspecting, and supporting development of precision prototype and low-volume production components.

reporting to the Machine Shop Lead, you will work with engineering, R&D, and operations to deliver high-quality parts that meet tight dimensional and cosmetic specs. Onsite five days a week in Sunnyvale, CA.

Qualifications

• 5+ years machinist experience in precision manufacturing or related environment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing documentation.
• Proficiency using precision inspection equipment and measuring tools.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced prototype environment.
• Exposure to CMM inspection and report interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and related equipment to manufacture prototype and low-volume parts.
• Interpret drawings, GD&T, and 3D CAD models to produce parts to specification.
• Select tooling, fixtures, and machining parameters to meet tolerances and surface finishes.
• Perform machine offsets, tool changes, and setup adjustments to optimize quality and efficiency.
• Inspect finished parts with precision measuring tools and document results.
• Support NPI activities and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Reading drawings

GD&T

CMM inspection

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Tools

Mastercam

Siemens NX CAM

Hexagon Esprit Edge

Job description

We are seeking a Machinist for our prototype machine shop in Sunnyvale, CA. Reporting to the Machine Shop Lead, this position is responsible for machining, fabricating, inspecting, and supporting the development of precision prototype and low-volume production components. The Machinist will work closely with engineering, R&D, and operations teams to deliver high-quality parts that meet demanding dimensional and cosmetic requirements.

We are seeking a Machinist for our prototype machine shop in Sunnyvale, CA. Reporting to the Machine Shop Lead, this position is responsible for machining, fabricating, inspecting, and supporting the development of precision prototype and low-volume production components. The Machinist will work closely with engineering, R&D, and operations teams to deliver high-quality parts that meet demanding dimensional and cosmetic requirements.

Location

U.S. (Sunnyvale, CA – 501 Mercury Drive) – Onsite five days per week.

Key Responsibilities

Prototype Machining, Setup, and Operation

• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and related machine shop equipment to manufacture precision prototype and low-volume production components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, work instructions, and 3D CAD models to produce parts to specification.
• Select tooling, fixtures, workholding methods, and machining parameters to achieve required tolerances and surface finishes.
• Perform machine offsets, tool changes, and setup adjustments to optimize quality and efficiency.

Quality, Inspection, and Documentation

• Inspect completed parts using precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, indicators, and other metrology tools.
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections and document results.
• Identify dimensional or process issues and collaborate with the Machine Shop Lead and engineering teams to implement corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate production and inspection records.

Continuous Improvement and Collaboration

• Provide feedback on manufacturability, tooling, fixture design, tolerances, and machining approaches.
• Support process improvement initiatives focused on quality, cycle time reduction, scrap reduction, and shop organization.
• Partner with engineering and prototype teams to support new product introduction (NPI) activities and accelerated development schedules.
• Contribute to a collaborative, safety-focused, and quality-driven work environment.

Safety and Compliance

• Follow all company safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with established 7S/lean manufacturing practices.
• Adhere to company policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.

This role includes the responsibilities outlined above as well as other duties as reasonably assigned to support business needs and operational priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

• 5+ years of machinist experience in a precision manufacturing, prototype, aerospace, optics, medical device, or related environment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing documentation.
• Proficiency using precision inspection equipment and measuring tools.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced prototype environment.
• Exposure to CMM inspection and report interpretation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with 5-axis machining and complex precision components.
• Familiarity with CAM software such as Mastercam, Siemens NX CAM, Hexagon Esprit Edge, or similar platforms.
• Experience supporting prototype machining and NPI activities.
• 2+ years of lathe setup experience.
• Experience with the following controllers: Mitsubishi, Fanuc, and Siemens.
• Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience.

Physical Conditions and Work Environment

• Frequent time on the production floor with prolonged standing and walking.
• Ability to lift and move materials, tooling, and components up to approximately 30–40 lbs; PPE as required.
• Collaborative, cross-functional work environment supporting global operations.
• May require occasional schedule flexibility to support business needs.