Senior Composite CNC Programmer/Machinist

Anduril • Santa Ana, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Composites/CNC team within Mechanical Services builds high-priority prototype hardware to advance Anduril’s mission of protecting service members and securing national security. We work shoulder-to-shoulder with design engineers in a high-tempo environment, building parts directly from rapidly evolving CAD models. Our hardware transitions from concept to real-world vehicles in weeks, not years. This is a low-volume, prototype and development environment. No production. We are seeking a high-ownership Composite CNC Programmer/Operator to join our rapidly growing team. In this role, you will own the end-to-end manufacturing process—from CAM programming and 5-axis setup to operation and final part inspection. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on, R&D-focused position. You program it, set it up, run it, and inspect it. There is no production work here; you will solve complex, unique tooling and prototyping challenges daily, playing a critical role in bringing next-generation defense technologies to life.

Requirements

• 4+ years of CAM programming experience (e.g., Esprit, hyperMILL) and 5+ years of hands-on CNC setup and operation.
• Deep understanding of machining complex composite and tooling materials, including carbon fiber (pre-preg and wet-layup), fiberglass, Kevlar, honeycomb, foam cores, and high-density urethane/epoxy tooling boards (e.g., RenShape).
• Strong command of G and M code, high-speed 5-axis machining, GD&T, and experience with large-gantry 5-axis machines (CMS) and Fanuc controls.
• Expertise in cutting-tool selection for abrasive materials (e.g., PCD, diamond-coated routers, compression drills) and custom work holding.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing R&D environment with a strong bias for action and minimal supervision.
• Passion for national security, defense technology, and solving critical hardware challenges.
• Must be a U.S. Person as this position requires access to export-controlled data.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced 5-axis simultaneous programming for complex surface contouring and trimming.
• Experience with Siemens NX CAD and Teamcenter.
• Familiarity with probing cycles and on-machine verification (e.g., Renishaw).
• Experience with metallic machining and hybrid fabrication workflows.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate large-format 5-axis CNC gantry routers and mills for trimming, drilling, and surfacing advanced composite components.
• Work closely with design and manufacturing engineers, providing real-time feedback on early-stage prototype models to optimize Design for Manufacturing (DFM).
• Design and fabricate robust work holding, including custom vacuum fixtures for delicate, near-net-shape parts.
• Machine master models and direct-to-part molds from foam, tooling board, and other pattern materials.
• Troubleshoot unique machining challenges inherent to composites, including delamination, fiber pull-out, and thermal degradation.
• Perform in-process quality control and dimensional verification to deliver high-quality prototype components with superior surface finishes.

Benefits

• Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package.
• Top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including: Benefits At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you’re supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed