Senior CNC Multi-Axis Lathe Machinist, Prototype Shop
About The Position
Varda is seeking an experienced Senior CNC Multi-Axis Lathe Machinist to anchor its prototyping capabilities. The role uses extensive Mastercam expertise and advanced CNC multi-axis lathe experience to program, set up, and produce complex, one-off aerospace components. The machinist is also a cross-functional partner who provides Design for Manufacturability (DFM) input and works with teams across the company in a fast-paced environment where priorities and project scopes can change quickly. Embedded in Varda’s prototype machine shop, the role handles high-urgency work that commercial vendors may not be able to execute or turn around quickly. The machinist owns manufacturing processes from CAM programming through fixturing, tool selection, optimization, on-machine probing, and final inspection or verification. The position also contributes to a collaborative, cross-training shop culture by sharing expertise, mentoring peers, and learning other machines and processes as shop needs evolve. This is an on-site role in El Segundo, California. The listed salary range is $46.75–$63.25 per hour. The role is eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards. U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required to comply with ITAR regulations.
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.
- Expert-level proficiency in Mastercam programming for complex multi-axis milling.
- Deep hands-on operational and programming experience with CNC multi-axis lathes.
- Strong knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation, and inspection.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate digitally with people of varied backgrounds and personalities.
- Ability to work effectively 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.
- 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 in troubleshooting machining challenges and implementing process improvements.
Responsibilities
- Use Mastercam to program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC equipment, with emphasis on CNC multi-axis lathes and complex geometries.
- Fabricate challenging prototype and flight-support components from diverse aerospace materials under tight, changing deadlines.
- Own the manufacturing process from CAM programming through fixturing, tool selection, optimization, on-machine probing, and final inspection or 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 close collaboration with quality assurance.
- Provide proactive DFM feedback to help optimize part designs for efficiency, strength, and manufacturability.
- Communicate and collaborate with engineers and peers through digital work orders, CAD/CAM notes, and direct dialogue.
- Contribute to a cohesive, high-performing shop floor by sharing expertise, mentoring peers, and troubleshooting setups collaboratively.
- Share specialized CNC multi-axis lathe and Mastercam knowledge while cross-training on other machines and processes as shop needs evolve.
- Embrace continuous improvement and contribute to building an efficient prototype environment.
Benefits
- 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
