Senior CNC Programmer Software

Frontdoor Defense; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Inversion, based in Los Angeles, CA, is seeking a Senior CNC Programmer to design and produce production-ready aerospace components. This hands-on role focuses on 3-, 4-, and 5-axis programming, optimizing tight-tolerance parts, and collaborating with engineering to ensure manufacturability in a fast-paced startup environment.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in aerospace CNC programming, Mastercam expertise, and the ability to obtain US government security clearance.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC programming in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing.
• Experience programming multi-axis (5-axis) CNC machines.
• Proficiency with Mastercam CAM software.
• Strong GD&T knowledge and tight-tolerance machining.
• Experience with aluminum alloys, titanium, or nickel-based superalloys.
• Ability to support setup and on-the-floor troubleshooting.
• Eligibility to obtain US government security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Program 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC mills and lathes for aerospace parts.
• Develop and optimize CNC programs for high-precision parts.
• Choose tooling, fixtures, and machining strategies to meet quality goals.
• Support setups, prove-outs, and first-article runs.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with design/engineering for DFM feedback.
• Interpret CAD drawings, CAD models, and GD&T data.
• Assist with transitioning prototype parts to production.
• Maintain accurate program documentation and setup sheets.

Skills

CNC programming

5-axis

Lathe programming

Mastercam

GD&T

Machining optimization

Problem solving

Tools

Mastercam

Job description

Senior CNC Programmer

Develop production-ready CNC programs for aerospace components in a fast-paced environment

Location: Los Angeles, California

Compensation: $40 - 60 USD / hour

About The Role

Senior CNC Programmer

Inversion is an aerospace and defense company pioneering advanced reentry technology to enable next-generation capabilities from space. By combining high-performance materials, precision aerodynamics, and mission-driven autonomy, Inversion is transforming reentry into an operational capability for an entirely new class of missions.

The company's highly maneuverable reentry spacecraft, Arc, is designed for rapid global cargo delivery, hypersonic testing, and other national security missions that require precise, controlled flight through the atmosphere. Arc creates an entirely new transportation domain, unlocking unprecedented speed and global reach.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, Inversion designs, manufactures, and integrates its spacecraft under one roof, enabling the company to move rapidly from concept to flight. The company is backed by leading investors including Y Combinator, Spark Capital, and Lockheed Martin Ventures, with customers across the U.S. government and commercial space industry.

We are seeking a Senior CNC Programmer to support the development and production of precision aerospace components. This role focuses on hands-on CNC programming, machining optimization, and close collaboration with engineering and quality teams in a fast-paced startup environment.

You will play a key role in turning complex designs into reliable, repeatable manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• CNC Programming & Machining.
• Program 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC mills and/or CNC lathes for aerospace components.
• Develop and optimize CNC programs for tight-tolerance, high-complexity parts.
• Select tooling, fixtures, and machining strategies to meet quality and cycle-time goals.
• Support machine setups, prove-outs, and first-article runs.
• Troubleshoot machining issues and support continuous improvement efforts.
• Work closely with design and manufacturing engineers on DFM feedback.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T.
• Support rapid prototyping and frequent design iterations.
• Assist with transitioning parts from prototype to production.
• Follow aerospace quality standards and internal manufacturing procedures.
• Support inspections, FAIs, and resolution of non-conformances.
• Maintain accurate documentation of programs and setup sheets.
• Contribute to process improvements that increase efficiency and repeatability.

Required Qualifications:

• Typically 5+ years of CNC programming experience in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing.
• Experience programming multi-axis CNC machines 5-axis.
• Experience with lathe programming.
• Proficiency with Mastercam CAM software.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tight-tolerance machining.
• Experience machining aluminum alloys, titanium, and/or nickel-based superalloys.
• Ability to support machine setup and on-the-floor troubleshooting.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government Secret/Top Secret security clearance.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in a startup or rapid product development environment.
• Familiarity with AS9100 or similar aerospace quality systems.
• Experience with both milling and turning operations.
• Knowledge of probing, in-process inspection, or automation.
• Ability to mentor junior programmers or machinists as needed.

Our office headquarters is located in Playa Vista, CA. This position requires in office presence.

The California hourly rate for this role is currently $40.00 - $60.00. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.

ITAR Compliance: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Equal Employment Opportunity: Inversion provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Inversion collects and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.