Machinist CNC - Programmer/Operator

Fabric8Labs; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity/stock options

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with employer match

Flexible PTO

Catered meals

Break room

Job summary

Fabric8Labs in San Diego, CA seeks a CNC Programmer/Machinist to set up and operate CNC and manual mills, lathes, and related tools. You will read drawings, inspect parts, and collaborate with engineers to develop quick-turn solutions for prototype and production components.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years of CNC experience with 2+ years programming, strong measurement tool skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical/machining education or certifications are a plus
• 5+ years of experience operating CNC with 2+years of experience programming in a shop or prototyping environment
• Proficiency with standard machine shop measuring tools and inspection techniques
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and work from CAD/CAM output
• Comfortable working independently from verbal instructions, sketches, or evolving designs
• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve and iterate quickly in a prototyping environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative setting

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate both CNC and manual mills, lathes, and other machine tools to produce precision prototype and production parts
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical documentation to machine custom parts to tight tolerances
• Perform part inspections using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and surface plates to ensure dimensional accuracy
• Work with engineering teams to develop quick-turn solutions, including tooling, jigs, and fixturing
• Support low-volume part fabrication, including deburring, tapping, polishing, and light assembly work
• Assist in maintaining and improving shop operations, including tool selection, programming, and general upkeep of machining equipment
• Collaborate cross-functionally to understand prototype requirements, provide feedback, and refine machining strategies for new materials or geometries
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment

Skills

CNC Programming

CNC Machining

CAM Software

CAD/CAM

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Fusion 360

Mastercam

Job description

Machinist CNC - Programmer/Operator

Nestled in the vibrant innovation hub of San Diego, CA, Fabric8Labs is redefining what’s possible with metal 3D printing. Our patented Electrochemical Additive Manufacturing (ECAM) process is unlocking new frontiers and applications in advanced manufacturing. Following a successful Series B funding round, we’re scaling rapidly to bring our disruptive technology to market.

We are seeking a skilled CNC Programmer/Machinist with experience in programming and operating both manual and CNC machining to join our growing team. This is a hands‑on, high‑impact role in our prototyping and production environment. You'll be working directly with engineers and technicians to machine precision components, build tooling, support R&D programs, and help bring next‑generation metal additive manufacturing systems to life.

If you thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment, and have a passion for precision machining and problem‑solving, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of manufacturing.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up and operate both CNC and manual mills, lathes, and other machine tools to produce precision prototype and production parts
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical documentation to machine custom parts to tight tolerances
• Perform part inspections using tools such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and surface plates to ensure dimensional accuracy
• Work with engineering teams to develop quick‑turn solutions, including tooling, jigs, and fixturing
• Support low‑volume part fabrication, including deburring, tapping, polishing, and light assembly work
• Assist in maintaining and improving shop operations, including tool selection, programming, and general upkeep of machining equipment
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to understand prototype requirements, provide feedback, and refine machining strategies for new materials or geometries
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment

Required Skills and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical/machining education or certifications are a plus
• 5+ years of experience operating CNC with 2+years of experience programming in a shop or prototyping environment
• Proficiency with standard machine shop measuring tools and inspection techniques
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and work from CAD/CAM output
• Comfortable working independently from verbal instructions, sketches, or evolving designs
• Demonstrated ability to problem‑solve and iterate quickly in a prototyping environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative setting

Preferred Skills and Experience

• 5+ years Experience with CAM software (e.g., Fusion 360, Mastercam) for CNC programming
• Background in machining exotic or non-traditional materials
• Familiarity with electromechanical assemblies and working in a multidisciplinary team
• Welding, soldering, or surface finishing experience
• Ability to work 2nd shift or flexible shifts

Why Work at Fabric8Labs?

• Competitive salary and equity/stock options
• Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with generous employer match
• Flexible PTO with an unmetered vacation policy
• Access to the latest tools and equipment in a collaborative, cross‑functional R&D setting
• Regular company-sponsored events, catered meals, and a fully stocked break room
• Be part of a passionate team solving hard problems with real‑world impact

Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications. The expected salary range for this role is $35 to $45 per hour.

Fabric8Labs provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Briefly describe your machining experience

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• San Diego, CA 92121 (Required)

Work Location: In person