Senior 5-Axis Prototype Machinist — Aerospace

citjpl; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Flexible schedule

Job summary

JPL in Pasadena seeks a Prototype Machinist to turn engineering designs into space-qualified flight components. In Precision Machining & Fabrication Services, you will fabricate highly complex prototype hardware using advanced manufacturing methods.

You will program and operate 5-axis CNC mills, work with engineers on DFM improvements, mentor junior machinists, and strive for tight tolerances and efficient processes.

Qualifications

• High level of expertise programming and operating 5-axis CNC mills.
• Mastercam proficiency with active 5-axis programming (≥5 years).
• Experience using Vericut for NC verification and collision detection.
• Ability to interpret complex blueprints with GD&T ASME Y14.5.
• Autonomous worker with strong collaboration with engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate 3- to 5-axis CNC mills to fabricate complex parts.
• Manufacture high-precision components to tight tolerances.
• Collaborate with shop leads and engineers during design reviews for DFMs.
• Run multiple machining resources and optimize for efficiency (lights-out).
• Perform routine PMs and maintain equipment readiness.
• Train and mentor junior machinists while enforcing safe procedures.
• Reduce cycle times and maximize machine utilization with advanced strategies.

Skills

5-axis machining

CNC programming

Machine setup

High-precision fabrication

Strong communication

Education

High School diploma + 10+ years experience

Associate's degree + 6+ years experience

Bachelor's degree + 3+ years experience + technical training

Tools

Mastercam

Vericut

GD&T ASME Y14.5

Job description

JPL in Pasadena seeks a Prototype Machinist to turn engineering designs into space-qualified flight components. In Precision Machining & Fabrication Services, you will fabricate highly complex prototype hardware using advanced manufacturing methods.

You will program and operate 5-axis CNC mills, work with engineers on DFM improvements, mentor junior machinists, and strive for tight tolerances and efficient processes.