Responsibilities

Observable Space is seeking an experienced CNC Machinist / Programmer / Setup Specialist to join our advanced prototyping facility in Los Angeles. This is a hands-on role focused on programming, setting up, and operating CNC equipment to manufacture complex, high-precision components for advanced optical, aerospace, and mechanical systems.
Our facility supports rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing of challenging components using materials such as aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, specialty alloys, and glass. We are looking for a versatile machinist who can independently take a part from engineering drawing or CAD model through CAM programming, machine setup, machining, and final inspection.
The ideal candidate combines strong technical machining expertise with practical problem-solving skills and a collaborative approach to working with engineers. You will play an important role in improving manufacturability, developing machining processes, and supporting the transition of prototype designs into production.
This position offers a flexible work environment, with occasional evening or weekend availability required to support time-sensitive projects.
CNC Programming, Setup & Machining
Program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC milling machines, including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis equipment, as well as CNC lathes with live tooling.
Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam, Fusion 360, or comparable CAM software.
Independently perform machine setups, including tooling selection, work offsets, fixture installation, tool probing, and program verification.
Interpret CAD models, engineering drawings, and GD&T requirements to manufacture precision components to specification.
Select appropriate cutting tools, machining strategies, speeds, and feeds based on material properties, part geometry, and tolerance requirements.
Perform first-article and in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments to ensure dimensional accuracy and quality.
Troubleshoot machining issues, optimize cycle times, and improve part quality and repeatability.

Qualification

Strong experience with CNC millingExperience machining aluminumStrong knowledge of custom fixturingFamiliarity with wire EDMExperience with precision metrologyExperience machining specialty alloys

Required

10+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience, including programming, machine setup, and operation in a precision machine shop or engineering prototyping environment.
Demonstrated 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, dial indicators, and other dimensional measuring equipment.
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 and the ability to identify and resolve machining, tooling, and setup issues independently.
Ability to work closely with engineers in a fast-paced, iterative prototyping environment.
Willingness to occasionally support time-sensitive projects outside standard business hours.

Preferred

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.

Lead CNC Machinist - Precision Prototyping at Observable Space · LumiJobs

Lead CNC Machinist - Precision Prototyping

Responsibilities

Qualification

Required

Preferred

Benefits

Company

Observable Space

More roles at Observable Space