Advanced Aerospace CNC Machinist & Programmer

STC•Hampton, VA

16h•Onsite

About The Position

Multi-Axis CNC Programming & Machining Program and operate 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC milling centers using Siemens NX and Powermill Perform in-process probing and dimensional validation using PowerInspect Machine complex components in aerospace alloys (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V, Inconel, 7075/7050), engineered polymers, and composite interfaces Develop optimized toolpaths focused on dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and cycle efficiency Plan fixturing, workholding, and machining strategy for one-off space flight hardware Verify machine setups, clearances, and reference points to prevent collisions Engineering Collaboration & Documentation Interpret EVA subsystem drawings, GD&T per ASME Y14.5, tolerance stack-ups, and interface requirements Collaborate with mechanical design, systems engineering, metrology, and EVA integration teams Support manufacturability reviews and provide feedback on material behavior and machining constraints Build and maintain work packages including material certs, traceability, dimensional inspection reports, and traveler documentation Precision Metrology & Verification Use PowerInspect to probe with milling centers. Apply inspection requirements consistent with NASA and AS9100 aerospace hardware practices Shop Operations & Safety Operate both CNC and manual machine tools including mills, lathes, grinders, drill presses, and saws Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and man lifts safely and efficiently Participate in required training (Fall Protection, Machine Safety, JHAs) Maintain strict compliance with safety standards, FOD control, and clean shop practices Mission Schedule Support Work independently with minimal supervision while delivering hardware on mission-critical timelines Support delivery schedules with up to 60 hours per week based on program needs Work Environment This role operates in an aerospace manufacturing environment supporting NASA. Hardware produced contributes to astronaut survival, mobility, and mission success, requiring precision, ownership, and a systems-level mindset.

Requirements

Proficient in CNC programming and setup (3-, 4-, and 5-axis)
Experience with CNC and manual machining
Ability to read and interpret complex drawings and CAD models
Strong understanding of aerospace tolerances and precision machining practices
Familiarity with Microsoft Office 365
Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate across disciplines
Valid Virginia Driver’s License with clean record
U.S. Citizenship required
Ability to pass STC and government background check

Nice To Haves

NASA, aerospace, defense, or research fabrication support
ERP/job tracking systems (JobBoss2 or equivalent)
Experience with one-off, prototype, or qualification hardware
CAM post-processor knowledge or customization
5-axis machining experience
Advanced CAM toolpath strategies for aerospace materials
ASME Y14.5 GD&T proficiency
Precision metrology (Renishaw, FARO, Leica, etc.)
Knowledge of FOD control and traceability requirements
Experience with human-rated aerospace hardware, pressure systems, or thermal/mechanical interfaces
Experience in R&D, prototype, or exploration hardware fabrication

Responsibilities

Program and operate 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC milling centers using Siemens NX and Powermill
Perform in-process probing and dimensional validation using PowerInspect
Machine complex components in aerospace alloys (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V, Inconel, 7075/7050), engineered polymers, and composite interfaces
Develop optimized toolpaths focused on dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and cycle efficiency
Plan fixturing, workholding, and machining strategy for one-off space flight hardware
Verify machine setups, clearances, and reference points to prevent collisions
Interpret EVA subsystem drawings, GD&T per ASME Y14.5, tolerance stack-ups, and interface requirements
Collaborate with mechanical design, systems engineering, metrology, and EVA integration teams
Support manufacturability reviews and provide feedback on material behavior and machining constraints
Build and maintain work packages including material certs, traceability, dimensional inspection reports, and traveler documentation
Use PowerInspect to probe with milling centers.
Apply inspection requirements consistent with NASA and AS9100 aerospace hardware practices
Operate both CNC and manual machine tools including mills, lathes, grinders, drill presses, and saws
Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and man lifts safely and efficiently
Participate in required training (Fall Protection, Machine Safety, JHAs)
Maintain strict compliance with safety standards, FOD control, and clean shop practices
Work independently with minimal supervision while delivering hardware on mission-critical timelines
Support delivery schedules with up to 60 hours per week based on program needs