CNC Programmer & Machinist (3- Axis & 5-Axis Okuma)
About this role
A New Paradigm For Space Operations.
Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.
This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.
What You’ll Do:
The CNC Machinist will manufacture and assemble components critical to the rapid prototyping of Space Kinetic’s core technology. This contract position will directly support the engineering team by producing CAM packages and precision hardware as we iterate toward flight testing.
Job Responsibilities:
- Manufacture and assemble precision components for Space Kinetic’s prototype and flight-testing efforts.
- Generate CAM packages for complex parts using Mastercam or a similar CAM platform.
- Program three-, five-, or seven-axis machining operations.
- Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes while maintaining aerospace tolerances.
- Operate equipment including the Okuma Multus B300 Mill-Turn, Okuma Genos M560V-5AX, Okuma Genos M660, and other Haas, Okuma, and Fadal machines.
- Work directly with the engineering team to support rapid design iterations and prototyping needs.
- Train and mentor other machinists while supporting team and project milestones.
What It Takes:
- 8+ years of professional machining experience.
- Proficiency with Mastercam or a similar CAM platform.
- Extensive experience programming, setting up, and operating three-axis CNC mills and lathes.
- Experience creating setups for complex parts while maintaining tight aerospace tolerances.
- Experience training and mentoring machinists.
- Demonstrated ability to meet project milestones and work independently to solve problems.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.
What We'd Love:
- Experience with five-axis CNC mills and mill-turn lathes.
- Experience programming or operating the Okuma Multus B300 Mill-Turn, Okuma Genos M560V-5AX, or Okuma Genos M660.
- Flexibility, openness to feedback, and receptiveness to new ideas.
- A strong commitment to integrity, quality, and precision.
Where You’ll Be:
- The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.
What We Offer:
- Competitive Base Salary + Equity-Based Compensation
- Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure
ITAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.
The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.