Senior Machinist

Valar Atomics; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity ownership

Free daily lunch and dinner onsite

Generous PPE stipend

High-impact startup environment with >

Opportunities for rapid career growth

Direct collaboration with experienced…

Job summary

Valar Atomics is seeking a Senior Machinist to manufacture parts from the mechanical engineering team with high attention to tolerance and a wide range of materials. You will operate and program CNC mills and lathes, interpret drawings, and ensure part quality through precise setups and measurements.

The role requires expertise in CNC programming and tooling choices, with collaboration across engineering and production to hit tight schedules in a startup environment.

Qualifications

• Proven CNC machining experience with lathe and mill operations.
• Strong ability to read and interpret drawings, GD&T, and specs.
• Knowledge of tooling selection and material behavior.

Responsibilities

• Operate, set up, and maintain CNC Mills and Lathes.
• Program and edit CNC paths using ESPRIT Edge CAM or Fusion 360.
• Interpret drawings/blueprints for precise machining tasks.
• Select tools, offsets, feeds and speeds for accuracy.
• Perform quality inspections with micrometers, calipers, height gauges.
• Troubleshoot issues with engineering/production to improve processes.
• Maintain clean, safe work environment per standards.
• Collaborate with machinists to meet schedules and quality targets.

Skills

CNC machining

CNC programming

GD&T

Engineering drawings

Setup & troubleshooting

Quality inspection

Independent & team player

High-mix low-volume experience

Tools

ESPRIT Edge

Fusion 360

Job description

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable—unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Team

As part of the Manufacturing organization, the Machine Shop manufactures precision components that meet exacting engineering and quality standards.The team supports rapid development, prototyping, and production through advanced machining capabilities.

The Role

The role of a Senior Machinist is the ability to manufacture parts from the mechanical engineering team. This position requires a high level of detail to execute in tolerance parts with a wide range of materials from plastics to metals.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, set up, and maintain CNC Mills and Lathes
• Program and edit CNC machine tool paths using ESPRIT EDGE CAM software or Fusion 360.
• Interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to execute precise machining tasks.
• Select and adjust tools, offsets, and feeds/speeds to optimize machine performance and part accuracy.
• Perform quality control inspections using precision measuring instruments (e.g., micrometers, calipers, height gauges).
• Troubleshoot machining issues and collaborate with engineering and production teams to enhance processes.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment, complying with all safety standards and operational protocols.
• Work closely with fellow machinists and team members to meet production schedules and quality expectations.

Basic Qualifications

• Proven experience in CNC machining, with expertise in both lathe and mill operations.
• Proficient in CNC programming, particularly using ESPRIT software or Fusion 360.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and technical specifications.
• Solid understanding of machining principles, tooling selection, and materials behavior.
• Skilled in machine setup, adjustments, and operational troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of quality control methods and precision inspection tools.
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
• Previous experience in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment is a plus.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• ESPRIT Edge Experience
• 5 Axis Machining proficiency

What We Offer

• Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
• Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
• Generous PPE stipend
• High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
• Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
• Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
• The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).