Prototype Machinist IV

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory

3d•$96,096 - $124,488•Onsite

About The Position

This unique opportunity is part of the Manufacturing, Packaging, and Test Services Section, reporting directly to the Group Supervisor for Precision Machining & Fabrication Services. This section maintains the advanced technical facilities required to fabricate, assemble, and test electro‑mechanical developmental and flight hardware for current and future missions. We are seeking a Prototype Machinist—a technology‑driven crafts person who excels at turning one‑of‑a‑kind engineering designs into space‑qualified flight components. In this role within Precision Machining & Fabrication Services, you will produce highly complex prototype spacecraft hardware using advanced manufacturing methods.

Requirements

Typically a High School diploma with a minimum of 10 years of related experience; an Associate’s degree with a minimum of 6 years of related experience; or a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3 years of related experience, plus completed technical training.
Extensive technical expertise and hands-on experience programming and operating 5-axis CNC mills, including simultaneous 5-axis programming to fabricate complex geometries to tight tolerances.
Expert proficiency in Mastercam with a minimum of 5 years of active 5-axis programming and manufacturing experience.
Experience using Vericut software for advanced simulation, collision detection, and NC program verification.
Advanced proficiency in interpreting complex engineering blueprints and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5 standards, with hands-on experience in part self-inspection.
Ability to work autonomously, applying advanced machining strategies to solve complex fabrication challenges.
Strong communication skills, with experience collaborating with engineering teams to clarify technical requirements and align with project schedules.

Nice To Haves

12+ years of aerospace or space industry programming and machining experience fabricating prototype and flight hardware.
Experience programming, setting up, and operating CNC lathes (such as Okuma, Mori Seiki, and Monarch).
Experience programming, setting up, and operating Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) equipment.
A solid understanding of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protective protocols when handling sensitive flight electronic hardware undergoing modification.
Strong background in conventional machining and precision tool room operations.
Experience serving as a lead machinist or team leader directing day-to-day shop operations.

Responsibilities

Program, set up, and operate a variety of 3- to 5-axis CNC machining centers (including Makino, Matsuura, Mitsui Seiki, DMG Mori, and Haas) to manufacture complex, high-precision components from metallic and non-metallic materials.
Manufacture high-precision parts to exceptionally tight tolerances.
Collaborate with shop leads, Manufacturing Engineers, and Cognizant Engineers during design reviews to develop robust process plans, meet machining estimates, and provide practical shop-floor feedback on Design-for-Manufacturability (DFM) improvements.
Operate and run multiple machining resources simultaneously, including setting up and executing "lights-out" (unattended) machining operations to maximize shop efficiency.
Perform routine equipment care and scheduled Preventive Maintenance (PMs).
Train, mentor, and coach less experienced machinists, ensuring strict adherence to safe operating procedures on complex shop equipment.
Optimize shop productivity by reducing cycle times and maximizing machine utilization through advanced machining strategies, maintaining uncompromising standards for precision and craftsmanship.