Tool & Die Maker - Precision Machining & Ground Support Equipment

Space Kinetic•El Segundo, CA

2h•$30 - $50•Onsite

About The Position

The Tool & Die Maker will fabricate, assemble, and refine precision mechanical components, tooling, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) for Space Kinetic’s technology. Working closely with mechanical engineers and technicians, this role turns engineering designs and CAD models into high-quality physical hardware and supports prototype development, hardware integration, testing, and production maturation. The position calls for strong machining and fabrication skills, experience building precision tooling, and the ability to manufacture custom GSE, fixtures, and test equipment. This is an onsite position at Space Kinetic’s headquarters in El Segundo, California. The company notes that the role is not intended for someone seeking a traditional 40-hour work week and describes a high level of commitment and urgency. Overtime or weekend work may be required based on production needs.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in tool and die making, precision machining, CNC machining, or a related manufacturing discipline.
Advanced proficiency operating CNC mills and/or CNC lathes, with additional manual machining experience.
Ability to independently manufacture complex mechanical components from engineering drawings and CAD models.
Experience machining tight-tolerance aerospace or precision components.
Strong understanding of GD&T, dimensional tolerances, machining specifications, and precision inspection.
Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, and other engineering materials.
Proficiency with precision measurement and inspection equipment, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, and CMMs.
Experience designing and fabricating custom tooling, fixtures, dies, and mechanical assemblies.
Strong understanding of machining processes, cutting tools, feeds and speeds, work holding, and material properties.
Ability to independently own manufacturing projects and drive technical challenges through completion.
Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and hands-on problem-solving skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience manufacturing GSE, test stands, assembly fixtures, and mechanical support equipment.
Familiarity with CAD/CAM software such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or Mastercam.
Experience with multi-axis CNC machining and complex precision components.
Experience building custom fixtures, jigs, molds, and dies.
Familiarity with welding, fabrication, and structural assembly.
Experience with precision mechanical assemblies and tight-tolerance interfaces.
Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or other high-performance hardware development.
Ability to turn engineering concepts into functional hardware across precision machining, fabrication, mechanical assembly, and GSE development.
Resourcefulness in independently tackling manufacturing challenges.
Comfort working in a fast-paced prototype environment where designs evolve.
Collaborative approach and pride in precision workmanship and high-quality results.

Responsibilities

Independently design, fabricate, modify, and maintain precision tools, dies, molds, fixtures, and mechanical components.
Manufacture custom Ground Support Equipment, including handling equipment, assembly fixtures, support structures, test stands, and specialized integration equipment.
Operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other precision machining equipment.
Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T specifications, and 3D CAD models to manufacture components within tight tolerances.
Select machining processes, cutting tools, work-holding methods, and materials for projects.
Machine aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, and other engineering materials.
Perform precision fitting, alignment, finishing, and assembly of tooling, GSE, and mechanical hardware.
Inspect machined components using micrometers, calipers, indicators, and CMMs.
Identify and resolve machining, fabrication, dimensional, and mechanical assembly challenges.
Collaborate with engineers to improve designs for manufacturability and optimize machining processes.
Support rapid prototyping, hardware builds, integration, and testing.
Document manufacturing processes and maintain shop equipment, tooling, and organization.