Founding Machinist – 5-Axis CNC

About the Role

In a time defined by strategic global competition, critical systems such as aircraft, autonomous platforms, satellites, and advanced defense equipment depend on precision components. Precision machining is a core strategic strength, not just a support service. At our precision machining company, tailored for high-tier aerospace and defense requirements, we operate state-of-the-art 5-axis CNC platforms with the rigor demanded by mission-critical hardware. We are constructing a high-performance production floor designed to accelerate part delivery aligned with the defense sector's needs.

This founding role entails establishing the foundation of our production capabilities from the ground up. There is no pre-existing program or procedures to follow; you will qualify machinery, conduct initial cuts, and develop fixtures, processes, a quality system, and the operational knowledge base. The standards you establish will become the company's benchmark.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the qualification and acceptance testing of 5-axis CNC equipment, validating initial cuts.
• Program complex components using CAD models and detailed GD&T drawings via advanced CAM software.
• Design and create fixturing and workholding solutions to ensure consistent, high-uptime manufacturing.
• Operate and optimize both first-article and production runs of aluminum, titanium, and specialized aerospace alloys.
• Develop strategies for feeds, speeds, and tool lifecycle management, documenting best practices in the company knowledge base.
• Assist in establishing an AS9100- and DCMA-compliant quality management system.
• Evaluate and qualify tooling, probing, and workholding as operations scale up.
• Set the production floor culture and mentor incoming team members.

Candidate Profile

• Over 5 years of hands-on CNC machining experience, including 5-axis programming and machine setup.
• Proficient with CAM platforms such as Mastercam, hyperMILL, Fusion 360, or equivalents, with strong ability to interpret complex GD&T.
• Proactive problem solver with a strong bias for decisive action.
• Capable of independently managing manufacturing projects from inception to completion without reliance on existing playbooks.
• Interest or experience in aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated precision manufacturing sectors.
• Must meet U.S. person status requirements as defined by ITAR regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with high-end 5-axis CNC machines like Matsuura or Makino is advantageous.
• Familiarity with titanium, Inconel, or other exotic alloy machining.
• Previous exposure to AS9100 / ISO 9001 or DCMA audit environments.
• Enthusiasm for automation and leveraging data to improve manufacturing processes.
• Background in military service or prior work within veteran-owned or mission-driven organizations is a plus.

Compensation and Advancement

The salary range for this position spans $95,000 to $200,000 annually, with exact pay determined by experience, skills, certifications, and proven capabilities. Benefits include paid time off and additional programs as they are developed.

There is clear authority over tooling, equipment, and process decisions from the start, with opportunities to progress into shop foreman or operational leadership roles as the business expands.

Education

The role values practical, real-world machining experience over formal degrees.

About Our Company

We are a precision machine shop located in the San Francisco Bay Area, committed to high-quality U.S. manufacturing. We hold ITAR registration and are recognized as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business.