Machinist - Level 2 or 3

Northrop Grumman•Goleta, CA

2d•$51,400 - $101,800•Onsite

About The Position

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. If forging a secure future excites you, look no further! Northrop Grumman’s Space Sector provides an arena where your passion for innovation and quest for exploration are welcome. As a Machinist – Level 2 or Level 3 your role at Goleta, CA will be pivotal in supporting missions critical to national and global security. Ready to join forces with our visionary team? A Level 3 Machinist is responsible for operating and programming precision machining equipment to fabricate, modify, and assemble complex aerospace components. The role demands high proficiency in using CNC machines, lathes, and other machining tools with little or no supervision while adhering to rigorous engineering specifications and quality standards for the aerospace industry. This position involves working reading blueprints and CAD drawings, independently setting up, programming, and running jobs while meeting tight tolerances, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining equipment efficiency. Collaboration with engineers and quality teams is critical to ensure the delivery of high-quality parts for aerospace applications. This position can be filled at either a Level 2 or Level 3.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years machining experience with 3+ year of 3-axis and 4-axis CNC machining/programming in the aerospace or precision manufacturing industry (for Level 2).
Minimum 4 years machining experience with 3+ year of 3-axis and 4-axis CNC machining/programming in the aerospace or precision manufacturing industry (for Level 3).
Proficiency in operating multi-axis CNC equipment (such as 3-axis to 4-axis machines) 5-axis is a plus.
Experience with CAM software, such as Mastercam, or SolidCAM.
Experience with Haas Control and Fanuc (or equivalent) controllers.
Strong understanding of materials (e.g., metals, alloys, composites) commonly used in aerospace.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Expertise in GD&T and tight-tolerance machining.
Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate across departments.
Fast-paced manufacturing or production floor environment.
Exposure to noise, heavy machinery, and various cutting oils/coolants.
May involve working shifts to support production demands.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or technical certifications in machining or manufacturing preferred.
Certification in aerospace-related machining or programming (e.g. AS9100C familiarity) is a plus.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices.
Ability to multitask in a high-pressure environment while maintaining high-quality standards.
Knowledge of Stratasys 3D printing/Additive manufacturing materials.
Knowledge of Laser cutting tools.

Responsibilities

Operate, program, and set up CNC mills, lathes, or other machining equipment to produce aerospace-grade components.
Perform manual machining using tools like grinders, drill presses, and manual mills where needed.
Create and verify machine programs using Mastercam software for complex parts with tight tolerances.
Read and interpret aerospace engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, and technical specifications.
Work with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) standards to ensure dimensional accuracy.
Perform precision measurements using calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine).
Inspect finished components for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and material integrity.
Document work orders, inspections, and production reports while ensuring compliance with AS9100 or ISO standards.
Troubleshoot and optimize machining processes to improve cycle times, efficiency, and part quality.
Evaluate tooling wear and select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, and materials based on project requirements.
Perform routine machine maintenance to avoid downtime and ensure optimal performance.
Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized workspace to meet aerospace cleanliness and safety standards.
Work closely with engineers, designers, and project managers to resolve issues, refine designs for manufacturability, and meet production deadlines.
Provide guidance to junior machinists if required.
Other duties as assigned