Lead CNC Machinist - Precision Prototyping

The role

This person will program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC equipment to manufacture complex, high-precision components. They will work with materials like aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel to support rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing.

What you will do

• Program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC milling machines and CNC lathes with live tooling
• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs using CAM software
• Perform machine setups including tooling selection, work offsets, and fixture installation
• Interpret CAD models, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements
• Select cutting tools, machining strategies, speeds, and feeds
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments
• Troubleshoot machining issues and optimize cycle times
• Collaborate with engineers to evaluate designs for manufacturability
• Design and fabricate custom fixtures, workholding solutions, jigs, and tooling
• Maintain accurate documentation of CNC programs, tooling, and inspection results

Required qualifications

• 10+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience
• Ability to independently program, set up, and machine complex parts from CAD models and engineering drawings
• Proficiency with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or equivalent
• Strong experience with CNC milling, including multi-axis machining, tooling selection, work offsets, and workholding
• Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and machining specifications
• Proficiency with precision inspection tools, including micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and dial indicators
• Working knowledge of CAD software such as SolidWorks or equivalent
• Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, engineering plastics, and other common manufacturing materials
• Strong troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work closely with engineers in a fast-paced, iterative prototyping environment
• Willingness to occasionally support time-sensitive projects outside standard business hours

Nice to have

• Advanced experience with 5-axis CNC milling and CNC turning with live tooling
• Experience programming and machining complex, high-precision components with tight geometric tolerances
• Experience manufacturing components for aerospace, space systems, robotics, optics, or other precision hardware applications
• Strong knowledge of custom fixturing, workholding strategies, and machining process optimization
• Experience with prototype and low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with wire EDM, waterjet cutting, laser cutting, and additive manufacturing
• Experience with precision metrology, CMM inspection, and first-article inspection processes
• Experience machining specialty alloys, difficult-to-machine materials, or components requiring specialized handling
• Familiarity with vacuum-compatible materials, machining practices, and cleanliness requirements
• Experience with general fabrication processes, including TIG welding, sheet metal fabrication, and mechanical assembly

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation
• Equity Opportunities (stock options)
• Flexible Work Environment
• Unlimited PTO (Salaried positions only)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer
• Access to latest hardware and software
• Mission-Driven Culture
• Inclusive Team

About the company

Observable Space is a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Their systems are used by customers including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War.