Senior Machinist & Model Maker for Aerospace Prototyping

AeroVironment, Inc.; New Mexico; On-site; USD 68,000 - 104,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Senior Machinist/Model Maker to lead advanced manufacturing for aerospace components and space-related structures at Kirtland AFB. The role demands autonomy, mastery of CNC and manual equipment, and collaboration with internal teams and external contractors.

Ideal candidates will have 7+ years in high-precision machining or R&D prototyping, strong CAD/CAM skills, and a U.S. security clearance eligibility. ITAR/EAR compliance is required.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in high-precision machining or R&D prototyping.
• Master-level understanding of precision tooling and equipment.
• Experience with Integrated Product Team (IPT) collaboration.
• Proficient CAD/CAM modeling using Mastercam/SOLIDWORKS.
• U.S. citizen eligible for DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical execution in the in-house machine shop.
• Analyze and solve complex manufacturing challenges.
• Plan sequencing, setup, and execution of multi-stage projects autonomously.
• Coordinate with internal/external contractors and government SMEs.
• Maintain safe procedures for hazardous materials and shop maintenance.

Skills

High-precision machining

CNC milling

CNC turning

CAD/CAM software

IPT collaboration

Education

Associate degree in Machine Tool Technology

Formal certification in machine tool technologies

Tools

Mastercam

SOLIDWORKS

Multi-axis CNC tooling

Job description

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Senior Machinist/Model Maker to lead advanced manufacturing for aerospace components and space-related structures at Kirtland AFB. The role demands autonomy, mastery of CNC and manual equipment, and collaboration with internal teams and external contractors.

Ideal candidates will have 7+ years in high-precision machining or R&D prototyping, strong CAD/CAM skills, and a U.S. security clearance eligibility. ITAR/EAR compliance is required.