CNC Machinist - Various Levels

Skookum•Kent, WA

8d•$22 - $41•Onsite

About The Position

Tessera is expanding its Aerospace Manufacturing team in Auburn, WA, and is seeking multiple CNC Machinists across various shifts. The CNC Machinist I is an entry-level role responsible for operating CNC machines under close supervision to produce parts that meet quality and safety requirements. This position focuses on learning shop processes, reading basic engineering drawings, and performing routine inspections. The CNC Machinist I supports production goals by following established work instructions and maintaining an organized, safe work area. The CNC Machinist II independently sets up and operates CNC equipment to produce precision components in accordance with engineering specifications. This role requires proficiency in blueprint interpretation, in-process inspection, and basic troubleshooting of machining issues. The CNC Machinist II actively contributes to continuous improvement efforts and may assist in training or mentoring CNC Machinist II employees. The CNC Machinist III is a senior-level role responsible for complex setups, advanced machining operations, and solving challenging manufacturing problems. This position partners closely with engineering and quality to optimize processes, improve cycle times, and ensure first-pass yield. The CNC Machinist III serves as a technical leader on the shop floor, mentoring others and driving best practices in safety, quality, and efficiency.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED or equivalent, required
0–3 years of CNC machining experience or completion of a recognized machining training program
Basic understanding of CNC machine operation and shop safety practices
Ability to read basic engineering drawings and follow written work instructions
Familiarity with common measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges)
Ability to accurately complete production and inspection documentation
Willingness to work in a highly regulated aerospace environment and eligibility to work in an ITAR-controlled setting
High school diploma, GED or equivalent
3-5 years of CNC machining experience in an aerospace or regulated manufacturing environment
Intermediate understanding of CNC machine operation and shop safety practices
Proven ability to independently set up and operate CNC machines
Proficiency reading aerospace engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T
Experience performing first-article, in-process, and final inspections
Strong understanding of AS9100 documentation, traceability, and nonconformance control
Ability to troubleshoot machining, tooling, and dimensional issues
High school diploma or GED required
5+ years of CNC machining experience, primarily in aerospace manufacturing, required
Demonstrated expertise in complex setups, multi-axis machining, and tight-tolerance work
Expert understanding of CNC machine operation and shop safety practices
Advanced proficiency in GD&T, blueprint interpretation, and aerospace specifications
Strong working knowledge of Aerospace Quality and process control requirements (AS9100) and experience working in an AS9100 shop.
Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex machining and quality issues
Experience collaborating with engineering and quality on first part runs and process validation
A valid state driver’s license is preferred with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera’s insurance.
Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act.
Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access.
A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

Nice To Haves

Completion of a technical machining certificate or apprenticeship, preferred
Introductory exposure to aerospace quality systems (AS9100, ISO 9001), preferred
Familiarity with GD&T fundamentals, preferred
Experience working with aluminum or common aerospace alloys, preferred
Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety
Journeyman Machinist certification or equivalent experience, preferred
Completion of a technical machining certificate or apprenticeship, preferred
Experience working with aluminum or common aerospace alloys, preferred
Experience working in an AS9100 certified shop, preferred
Experience machining hard metals, tight-tolerance, flight-critical components, preferred
Familiarity with customer-specific aerospace requirements (e.g., Boeing BAC, Airbus, DoD), preferred
Experience mentoring or training entry-level machinists, preferred
Journeyman Machinist certification, Master Machinist, or equivalent, preferred
Completion of a technical machining certificate or apprenticeship, preferred
Advanced GD&T certification, preferred
Experience working with aluminum or common aerospace alloys, preferred
Horizontal mill and hard metal experience, preferred
CNC programming experience (e.g., Mastercam, NX, or similar), preferred
Experience supporting DoD, space, or flight-critical programs, preferred
Demonstrated leadership experience in mentoring and technical problem-solving, preferred

Responsibilities

Operate CNC machines under supervision in compliance with Tessera QMS quality procedures and AS9100
Follow documented work instructions, travelers, and routers to ensure full traceability
Load and unload parts, tools, and fixtures while protecting product and machinery from damage
Read and interpret basic aerospace engineering drawings and manufacturing notes
Perform basic dimensional inspections using calibrated measurement equipment
Complete in-process inspection steps as defined by quality plans
Accurately record production, inspection results, and lot traceability documentation
Identify, segregate, and report nonconforming material per Tessera Quality procedures
Handle ITAR-controlled technical data and hardware in accordance with company policy
Maintain clean, organized work areas consistent with 5S and FOD prevention practices
Follow all safety, EHS, and ITAR-control requirements at all times
Participate in ongoing training related to aerospace quality, compliance, and machining
Be willing to work overtime if/as required
Independently set up and operate CNC machines producing aerospace components
Interpret complex aerospace drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements
Verify correct program revisions, tooling, and documentation prior to production
Perform first- part, in-process, and final inspections per Quality System requirements
Use advanced measuring tools and ensure all equipment is properly calibrated
Make machining adjustments to maintain tight tolerances and flight-critical quality
Troubleshoot common machining, tooling, and dimensional issues
Ensure complete and accurate production, inspection, and traceability records
Identify and contain nonconforming product in accordance with QMS procedures
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, yield, and efficiency
Assist in training and mentoring CNC Machinist I employees on aerospace requirements
Comply with ITAR, export controls, and controlled data handling requirements
Lead complex CNC setups and advanced machining operations across the plant
Optimize CNC programs, tooling strategies, and machining processes for aerospace applications
Interpret and apply advanced GD&T, customer specifications, and aerospace standards
Diagnose and resolve complex machining, tooling, and process-capability issues
Partner with engineering and quality to support new product introductions and FAI approval, as needed
Drive process improvements to enhance first-pass yield, cycle time, and repeatability
Establish standard work and best practices aligned with AS9100 requirements
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to CNC Machinist I and CNC Machinist II employees
Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for nonconformances
Ensure strict adherence to traceability, configuration control, and documentation standards
Act as a subject-matter expert for aerospace machining and quality compliance
Uphold and model ITAR compliance standards

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Short-Term Disability Insurance
Elective 401(k) retirement plan with employer match after 90-days of employment. Tessera will match 0.5% for every 1% up to 6%. Funds are subject to vesting.
Flexible Spending Accounts for both medical and dependent care
11 paid holidays, accrual of 10 paid days of vacation at the start of employment, paid sick leave
Potential shared earning bonus
Tuition assistance is available after 1 year of employment and potential scholarships for qualified dependents
Professional development, certifications, and training opportunities
Verizon wireless discount
Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and an engaging wellness program
Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time employees