Advanced CNC Mill Machinist

APM Manufacturing•Orange, CA

About The Position

The CNC Mill Machinist III is a senior-level machinist responsible for complex CNC and/or manual milling setups, advanced troubleshooting, and manufacturing high-precision aerospace components. The role operates with minimal supervision and serves as a technical resource and mentor to junior machinists while ensuring compliance with aerospace quality and regulatory standards. The position involves independently setting up, operating, and optimizing complex CNC and/or multi-axis milling machines; interpreting complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T requirements; and developing setup strategies, selecting tooling, and designing or modifying fixtures. The machinist performs first article, in-process, and final inspections in accordance with AS9100 and customer specifications, and holds typical aerospace tolerances of ±.0002”–±.0005”. The role also includes troubleshooting machining, tooling, and process issues, making G-code edits at the machine, recommending process improvements, collaborating with Manufacturing Engineering, mentoring junior machinists, and maintaining production, inspection, and traceability documentation.

Requirements

Advanced knowledge of CNC controls, such as Fanuc, Haas, or Mazak.
Strong proficiency in GD&T and complex blueprint interpretation.
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and optimize machining processes.
High proficiency with precision measurement tools and inspection techniques.
High school diploma or GED required.
5–8+ years of milling experience in a precision manufacturing environment.

Nice To Haves

Technical degree or apprenticeship preferred.
Experience with 4-axis or 5-axis machining preferred.
Aerospace experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Independently set up, operate, and optimize complex CNC and/or multi-axis milling machines.
Interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T requirements.
Develop setup strategies, select tooling, and design or modify fixtures as needed.
Perform first article inspections, in-process inspections, and final inspections in accordance with AS9100 and customer specifications.
Maintain tight tolerances typical in aerospace applications (±.0002”–±.0005”).
Troubleshoot advanced machining, tooling, and process issues to improve efficiency and reduce scrap.
Make G-code program edits at the machine and recommend process improvements.
Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering on process development and continuous improvement initiatives.
Train and mentor Mill Machinist I and II team members.
Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality systems, and regulatory requirements, such as ITAR if applicable.
Maintain accurate production, inspection, and traceability documentation.