Precision CNC Machinist/Programmer

SureFire LLC•Fountain Valley, CA

12d•$85,000 - $110,000•Onsite

About The Position

As a Precision CNC Machinist/Programmer within the Precision Manufacturing team, you will set up, operate, and optimize CNC machining equipment used to manufacture precision components for optical and optomechanical systems. This role spans machine setup, machining operations, tooling selection, process optimization, inspection, and production support, bridging hands-on manufacturing activities with engineering and quality requirements to ensure dimensional accuracy, repeatability, and efficient production. Working closely with Manufacturing and Engineering teams, you will troubleshoot machining challenges, improve process capability, and support the successful production of high-quality components. Collaborating across cross-functional teams, you will provide technical expertise to drive continuous improvement in machining performance, product quality, and manufacturing efficiency.

Requirements

2+ years of experience setting up and operating CNC machining equipment in a manufacturing environment.
Experience with CNC programming, program verification, and CAM software such as Mastercam, Siemens NX CAM (highly preferred), or equivalent.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, dimensional tolerances, and GD&T requirements.
Experience establishing machine setups, tool offsets, work offsets, coordinate systems, and machining parameters.
Experience using precision inspection and measurement equipment including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, indicators, and optical comparators.
Working knowledge of machining processes, cutting tools, feeds, speeds, work-holding, tooling, and machine setup fundamentals.
Experience in the optomechanical, optical, or other high-precision manufacturing industry (preferred).
Experience setting up and operating horizontal and 4-axis CNC milling machines (highly preferred).
Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and 6S practices.
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot machining, tooling, dimensional, and surface finish issues.
Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and commitment to producing high-quality components.
Strong organizational, communication, and technical documentation skills.
Must be proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
Knowledge of drafting programs is a plus.

Nice To Haves

Siemens NX CAM experience
Experience in the optomechanical, optical, or other high-precision manufacturing industry
Experience setting up and operating horizontal and 4-axis CNC milling machines
Knowledge of drafting programs

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and optimize CNC milling and/or turning equipment to manufacture precision components in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications.
Install and qualify cutting tools, work-holding fixtures, vises, chucks, and related tooling required for production.
Establish, verify, and maintain machine coordinate systems, work offsets, tool offsets, and machine setups to ensure accuracy and repeatability.
Perform machine prove-out, first-article verification, and production support activities prior to and during manufacturing operations.
Load, verify, execute, and troubleshoot CNC programs while maintaining safe and efficient machine operation.
Read, interpret, and edit CNC programs, including adjustments to feeds, speeds, tooling offsets, and machining parameters as required.
Work with CAM-generated toolpaths and support machining operations using Siemens NX, Mastercam, or similar CAM software.
Monitor machining operations and make process adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and production efficiency.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, manufacturing documentation, dimensional tolerances, GD&T requirements, and work instructions.
Perform first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measurement equipment including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, indicators, and optical comparators.
Verify product conformance to engineering, quality, and customer requirements and document inspection results.
Identify, document, and communicate nonconforming conditions and support corrective actions.
Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to develop, improve, and sustain machining processes.
Recommend tooling, work-holding, machining strategies, feeds, speeds, and process improvements to enhance quality and efficiency.
Troubleshoot dimensional, tooling, surface finish, programming, and machining-related issues and implement corrective actions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing cycle time, improving tool life, increasing process capability, and enhancing repeatability.
Maintain machine cleanliness, equipment condition, and safe operating practices.
Maintain good attendance and punctuality.
Maintain a positive and respectful attitude; cooperate with co-workers, management, internal and external customers, etc.
Execute daily process improvement using lean manufacturing methodologies.
Maintain work area by the use of 6S principles.
Work safely at all times and report any unsafe conditions or injuries to your supervisor or manager immediately.
Other duties, as assigned.