Experimental Machinist

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Aerospace Corporation’s Experiment Lab, xLab, develops prototypes, instruments, pathfinders, and demonstration systems to address our customers’ hardest problems at the speed of need. We engage with our customers to conceptualize innovative solutions and deliver impactful products for ground and space and everything in between. We are looking for engineers with a passion for design, a commitment to teamwork and a desire to help xLab make a difference to today’s challenges.   

We are looking for an Experimental Machinist (Technical Specialist – Fabrication I) to join our internal machine shop.  You will provide manufacturing services to many diverse research organizations and projects, including the development of unique and complex scientific apparatus, manufacture of one-of-a-kind prototypes and rapid response to work that scales from hours to weeks.

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Fabrication, and assembly of precision-machined prototype hardware
• Independently perform programming, machine set-ups, and operation of all standard shop equipment, including: CNC Mills, CNC lathes, waterjet, auxiliary equipment
• Provide expertise and understanding of machine shop support equipment such as cut-off saws, band saws, shears, belt sanders, and pedestal polishing
• Machining of all standard metallic alloys as well as ceramics, plastics, and exotic materials such as Invar, Inconel, and Molybdenum.
• Proficiency inspection techniques of components using precision measuring tools, shared inspection responsibilities for specification compliance of fabrications and assemblies produced
• Participate in regular safety reviews, and maintain a relationship with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) teams
• Perform daily and regular cleaning and light maintenance of machines and equipment

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• 1 year or more of related experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience with Mastercam software
• Ability to work from detailed prints, sketches, and verbal instructions
• Knowledge of GD&T tolerancing
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. US citizenship is required.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Completion of an accredited apprenticeship program, such as NTMA or college course equivalent
• Experience with computer aided manufacturing, manufacturing technologies, Mastercam Certification
• Experience working in DoD / Space industry
• Understanding of Haas vertical milling machines with 4th and 5th Axis
• Waterjet, EDM

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$22.88 - $34.32

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.