Prototype Machinist IV

JPL/NASA•Pasadena, CA

29d•$96,096 - $124,488•Onsite

About The Position

The Prototype Machinist works in JPL’s Manufacturing, Packaging, and Test Services Section, within Precision Machining & Fabrication Services. The section maintains advanced technical facilities for fabricating, assembling, and testing electromechanical developmental and flight hardware for current and future missions. This role turns one-of-a-kind engineering designs into space-qualified flight components by producing complex prototype spacecraft hardware using advanced manufacturing methods. The position reports directly to the Group Supervisor for Precision Machining & Fabrication Services. The machinist programs, sets up, and operates 3- to 5-axis CNC machining centers to produce high-precision components from metallic and non-metallic materials. The role collaborates with shop leads and engineers on design reviews and process planning, operates multiple machining resources—including unattended operations—and supports equipment maintenance, mentoring, and shop productivity. The position is located in Pasadena, California.

Requirements

Typically, a high school diploma and at least 10 years of related experience; an associate’s degree and at least 6 years; or a bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years, plus completed technical training.
Extensive hands-on experience programming and operating 5-axis CNC mills, including simultaneous 5-axis programming for complex geometries and tight tolerances.
Expert proficiency in Mastercam, with at least 5 years of active 5-axis programming and manufacturing experience.
Experience using Vericut for simulation, collision detection, and NC program verification.
Advanced ability to interpret complex engineering blueprints and GD&T per ASME Y14.5, with hands-on part self-inspection experience.
Ability to work autonomously and apply advanced machining strategies to solve complex fabrication challenges.
Strong communication skills and experience collaborating with engineering teams to clarify technical requirements and align with project schedules.

Nice To Haves

12 or more 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.
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 3- to 5-axis CNC machining centers to manufacture complex, high-precision components from metallic and non-metallic materials.
Manufacture parts to exceptionally tight tolerances.
Collaborate with shop leads, Manufacturing Engineers, and Cognizant Engineers during design reviews to develop process plans, meet machining estimates, and provide Design-for-Manufacturability feedback.
Operate multiple machining resources simultaneously, including setting up and executing unattended “lights-out” machining operations.
Perform routine equipment care and scheduled preventive maintenance.
Train, mentor, and coach less experienced machinists, ensuring adherence to safe operating procedures.
Reduce cycle times and maximize machine utilization using advanced machining strategies while maintaining precision and craftsmanship.