Lead CNC Machinist - Precision Prototyping

Observable Space • Los Angeles, CA

3d • $50 - $65 • Hybrid

About The Position

Observable Space is seeking an experienced CNC machinist, programmer, and setup specialist for its advanced prototyping facility in Los Angeles. The hands-on role programs, sets up, and operates CNC equipment to manufacture complex, high-precision components for optical, aerospace, and mechanical systems. The facility supports rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing using materials including aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, specialty alloys, and glass. The machinist independently takes parts from engineering drawings or CAD models through CAM programming, setup, machining, and final inspection.

The role works closely with engineers to improve manufacturability, develop machining processes, and support the transition of prototype designs into production. It also contributes to equipment upkeep, quality documentation, shop safety, and occasional mechanical assembly and integration. The work environment is flexible, with occasional evening or weekend availability required for time-sensitive projects. The LA office role requires at least three days per week in the office, with the option to work remotely part of the week.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of hands-on CNC machining experience, including programming, setup, and operation in a precision machine shop or engineering prototyping environment.
• Ability to independently program, set up, and machine complex parts from CAD models and engineering drawings.
• Proficiency with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or equivalent.
• Strong CNC milling experience, including multi-axis machining, tooling selection, work offsets, and workholding.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and machining specifications.
• Proficiency with precision inspection tools, including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and dial indicators.
• Working knowledge of CAD software such as SolidWorks or equivalent.
• Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, engineering plastics, and other common manufacturing materials.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to independently resolve machining, tooling, and setup issues.
• Ability to work closely with engineers in a fast-paced, iterative prototyping environment.
• Willingness to occasionally support time-sensitive projects outside standard business hours.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced experience with 5-axis CNC milling and CNC turning with live tooling.
• Experience programming and machining complex, high-precision components with tight geometric tolerances.
• Experience manufacturing components for aerospace, space systems, robotics, optics, or other precision hardware applications.
• Strong knowledge of custom fixturing, workholding strategies, and machining process optimization.
• Experience with prototype and low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with wire EDM, waterjet cutting, laser cutting, and additive manufacturing.
• Experience with precision metrology, CMM inspection, and first-article inspection processes.
• Experience machining specialty alloys, difficult-to-machine materials, or components requiring specialized handling.
• Familiarity with vacuum-compatible materials, machining practices, and cleanliness requirements.
• Experience with TIG welding, sheet metal fabrication, and mechanical assembly.
• Ability to support basic finishing processes, including deburring, surface preparation, and spray finishing.
• Experience developing machining procedures and transitioning prototype processes into repeatable production workflows.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC milling machines and CNC lathes with live tooling.
• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam, Fusion 360, or comparable CAM software.
• Perform machine setups, including tooling selection, work offsets, fixture installation, tool probing, and program verification.
• Interpret CAD models, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements to manufacture precision components to specification.
• Select cutting tools, machining strategies, speeds, and feeds based on materials, part geometry, and tolerance requirements.
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, optimize cycle times, and improve part quality and repeatability.
• Collaborate with mechanical, optical, and manufacturing engineers on design manufacturability and improvements.
• Develop machining strategies for complex geometries, tight-tolerance components, and challenging materials.
• Design and fabricate custom fixtures, workholding solutions, jigs, and tooling for prototype and low-volume production.
• Support rapid design iterations, engineering changes, and one-off component fabrication.
• Document machining processes for transfer to the Michigan manufacturing facility.
• Support wire EDM, waterjet cutting, laser cutting, and additive manufacturing as needed.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, and equipment optimization.
• Maintain documentation of CNC programs, tooling, setups, machining parameters, and inspection results.
• Contribute to continuous improvement in machining efficiency, precision, safety, and process reliability.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient prototyping environment.
• Occasionally assist with mechanical assembly, integration, and test fixture development.

Benefits

• Stock options
• Flexible work environment with hybrid work setup and remote work part of the week; minimum three days per week in the LA office
• Unlimited PTO for exempt employees
• Paid holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of employee premiums paid by the employer
• Access to cutting-edge hardware and software

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed