Prototype Machinist — Flexible Hours, On-Call for Space Tech

Observable Space; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

R&D team growth

Flexible scheduling

Impact on space hardware

Craftsmanship culture

Job summary

Observable Space in Los Angeles is seeking a hands-on Prototype Machinist for our state-of-the-art prototyping facility. You’ll operate 3D printers, 5-axis CNCs, laser cells, and waterjets to turn challenging concepts into space-grade parts.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in a prototyping shop, solid CAD/CAM skills (SolidWorks, Mastercam or Fusion CAM), and the ability to read GD&T drawings and specs for rapid iteration.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in an engineering prototyping shop or machine shop environment.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks (or similar CAD tools).
• Significant experience with CAM software such as Mastercam or Fusion CAM.
• Proficient with modern CNC machine operations and part inspection.
• Ability to interpret and execute mechanical drawings and GD&T.
• Familiarity with common materials (aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, plastics, etc.) and their machining characteristics.
• Comfortable with occasional non-standard hours.

Responsibilities

• Operate a wide range of fabrication tools including: 3D printers, 5-axis CNC mills and live tooling lathes, tube and flat-bed lasers, waterjets, wire EDM, and high-precision manual tools.
• Participate in engineering design reviews to evaluate manufacturability.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to iterate on part designs in real time.
• Help design novel machining processes and methodologies for the Michigan production facility.
• Work from SolidWorks models and technical drawings to produce high-tolerance parts.
• Prepare CAM programs in Mastercam, Fusion 360, or similar tools.
• Help develop custom fixturing, jigs, and one-off assemblies for rapid prototyping.
• Assist in maintaining, upgrading, and tuning machines and shop infrastructure.
• Participate in design for manufacturability (DFM) reviews and provide direct feedback to engineers.
• Occasionally assist with integration or test setups when needed.

Skills

5+ yrs exp

SolidWorks

Mastercam

Fusion CAM

CNC machining

GD&T

Reading drawings

Flexible hours

Tools

Mastercam

Fusion 360

Job description

Observable Space in Los Angeles is seeking a hands-on Prototype Machinist for our state-of-the-art prototyping facility. You’ll operate 3D printers, 5-axis CNCs, laser cells, and waterjets to turn challenging concepts into space-grade parts.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in a prototyping shop, solid CAD/CAM skills (SolidWorks, Mastercam or Fusion CAM), and the ability to read GD&T drawings and specs for rapid iteration.