Senior VTL Programmer: 5-Axis Aerospace Machining

Karman; El Monte (CA); On-site; USD 62,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

HSA with company contribution

FSA

Company-paid life and AD&D insurance

Short- and long-term disability

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a VTL Programmer in South El Monte, CA to develop and optimize machining programs for high-precision aerospace hardware, collaborating with machinists, engineering, production, and quality teams.

The role requires 5+ years of VTL programming experience, familiarity with CATIA or Mastercam, and the ability to read blueprints and NC code. This full-time position offers comprehensive benefits and a path to contribute to critical spaceflight programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience writing VTL programs in a machining environment.
• Experience operating 3-axis and 5-axis VTL machines.
• Experience with CATIA, Mastercam, or equivalent CAM software.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, process instructions, and drawings.
• Experience with G-code and M-code.
• Familiarity with safety policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Develops and optimizes VTL programs for complex aerospace components across 3-axis and 5-axis machining platforms.
• Creates and modifies machining strategies to improve efficiency, tool life, and part quality.
• Designs holding fixtures and selects cutting tools for supported machining operations.
• Maintains CNC programs to reflect current print and model revisions.
• Integrates programming activities with Production, Quality, and Program Management teams to support workflow.
• Applies AS9100 procedures and supports continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensures department processes, safety rules, and company practices are followed.
• Troubleshoots machining or programming issues and communicates actionable solutions to supervisors.
• Manages work to meet production schedules and deadlines.
• Supports an organized, safe, and clean programming work environment.

Skills

VTL programming

Time management

Problem solving

Effective communication

Tools

CATIA

Mastercam

CAM software

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is seeking a VTL Programmer in South El Monte, CA to develop and optimize machining programs for high-precision aerospace hardware, collaborating with machinists, engineering, production, and quality teams.

The role requires 5+ years of VTL programming experience, familiarity with CATIA or Mastercam, and the ability to read blueprints and NC code. This full-time position offers comprehensive benefits and a path to contribute to critical spaceflight programs.