Prototype Machinist IV

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory

4d•$100,984 - $126,880•Onsite

About The Position

The Prototype Machinist works in JPL’s Manufacturing, Packaging, and Test Services Section, within Precision Machining & Fabrication Services, which maintains facilities for fabricating, assembling, and testing electromechanical developmental and flight hardware. The role produces complex prototype spacecraft hardware and precision components from metallic and non-metallic materials using advanced manufacturing methods. It 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; produces parts to tight tolerances; and collaborates with shop leads, Manufacturing Engineers, and Cognizant Engineers on design reviews, process plans, machining estimates, and design-for-manufacturability feedback. The role also operates multiple machining resources, including unattended “lights-out” operations, performs equipment care and preventive maintenance, mentors less experienced machinists, and improves productivity while maintaining high standards of precision and craftsmanship. JPL is located in Pasadena, California, on a campus-like site in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. The role’s stated annual hiring range is $100,984–$126,880. JPL describes its benefits as including health, dental, vision, wellbeing and retirement plans, paid time off, learning opportunities, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, and parental leave. NASA-related restrictions apply to applicants from designated countries as described in the posting.

Requirements

High school diploma with at least 10 years of related experience, an associate’s degree with at least 6 years of related experience, or a bachelor’s degree with at least 3 years of related experience, plus completed technical training.
Extensive hands-on expertise programming and operating 5-axis CNC mills, including simultaneous 5-axis programming for complex geometries and tight tolerances.
Expert proficiency in Mastercam and 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 in accordance with ASME Y14.5, with hands-on part self-inspection experience.
Ability to work autonomously and apply advanced machining strategies to 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, including equipment from Makino, Matsuura, Mitsui Seiki, DMG Mori, and Haas, to manufacture complex 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 process plans, meet machining estimates, and provide shop-floor feedback on design-for-manufacturability improvements.
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 and ensure adherence to safe operating procedures.
Improve shop productivity by reducing cycle times and maximizing machine utilization through advanced machining strategies.