Senior CNC 5-Axis Mill Machinist, Prototype Shop
About The Position
Varda is seeking a Senior 5-axis CNC Mill Machinist to anchor its prototyping capabilities. The role uses extensive Mastercam expertise and advanced 5-axis CNC mill experience to program, set up, and execute complex, one-off aerospace components. The machinist partners with teams across the company to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) input in a fast-paced environment where speed and flexibility are important. This position is part of an in-house prototype machine shop supporting a high-cadence aerospace environment. The machinist handles complex, urgent work that commercial vendors may not be able to execute or deliver quickly, and contributes to an efficient prototype environment through collaboration and cross-training. The role is on-site in El Segundo, California.
Requirements
- At least 5 years of hands-on manual and CNC machining experience in a fast-paced prototype, aerospace, R&D, or advanced manufacturing environment.
- Proficiency in Mastercam programming for complex multi-axis milling.
- Deep, hands-on operational and programming experience with 5-axis CNC mills.
- Experience with part fixturing designed to hold parts in a free state, as well as zero-point fixturing.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively and digitally with people of varied backgrounds and personalities.
- Ability to thrive in an environment where priorities change quickly.
- U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency to comply with ITAR regulations.
Nice To Haves
- At least 10 years of hands-on manual and CNC machining experience, including advanced 5-axis operations.
- Experience designing and fabricating complex fixturing and work-holding solutions.
- Advanced knowledge of multi-tasking machine operations, such as mill-turns and live-tool lathes.
- Mastery of troubleshooting machining challenges and implementing process improvements.
- Familiarity with production tracking tools such as Jira and continuous improvement methodologies.
Responsibilities
- Use Mastercam to program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC equipment, especially 5-axis CNC mills and complex geometries.
- Fabricate prototype and flight-support components from diverse aerospace materials under tight and changing deadlines.
- Own the manufacturing process from CAM programming through fixturing, tool selection, optimization, on-machine probing, and final inspection and verification.
- Handle high-priority, complex work that commercial vendors cannot turn around or execute, connecting design concepts with physical hardware.
- Adapt to changing priorities and project scopes while maintaining part integrity and precision.
- Maintain quality standards through in-process inspection and collaboration with quality assurance.
- Apply GD&T, blueprint interpretation, and inspection knowledge to provide proactive DFM feedback and help optimize designs for efficiency, strength, and manufacturability.
- Communicate and collaborate with engineers and peers through digital work orders, CAD/CAM notes, and direct dialogue.
- Share expertise, mentor peers, and troubleshoot setups collaboratively to support a cohesive shop floor.
- Share 5-axis and Mastercam knowledge while learning other machines and processes as shop needs evolve.
Benefits
- Eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
