Position: CNC Setup Machinist
Hours: Monday – Friday 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Work Location: In person, 12521 Crenshaw Blvd. Hawthorne, CA 90250

Position Overview          

We are seeking a highly skilled CNC Setup Machinist to join our aerospace manufacturing team in Hawthorne, CA. The CNC Setup Machinist will be responsible for setting up and preparing CNC mills and/or lathes to produce precision aerospace components to exact specifications. This role requires hands-on experience with close-tolerance machining, setup optimization, and collaboration with engineers, programmers, and quality teams in an AS9100-certified environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, or multi-axis machining centers for aerospace parts production.
• Review blueprints, setup sheets, and solid models to determine workholding, tooling, and sequence of operations.
• Load, align, and secure fixtures, tools, and materials; verify zero points and offsets.
• Perform first-article setups and inspections to validate dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
• Adjust feeds, speeds, and tool paths to optimize cycle times and ensure part quality.
• Work with CNC programmers to validate new programs and suggest process improvements.
• Inspect machined components using precision instruments (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, CMM data, etc.).
• Document setup data, tooling lists, and work instructions for repeat jobs.
• Maintain machines, tools, and work areas per 5S and safety standards.
• Communicate with supervisors and engineers regarding process issues, tooling wear, or quality concerns.

Skills & Qualifications
Required:

• 5+ years of CNC setup experience in aerospace or high-precision machining.
• Proficient in setting up 3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis mills and/or lathes (Haas, Okuma, Mazak, or Fanuc control experience preferred).
• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and aerospace tolerancing standards.
• Familiarity with machining aerospace materials: aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and composites.
• Skilled in using precision measuring tools and interpreting inspection reports.
• Understanding of AS9100, ISO 9001, and ITAR compliance requirements.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills, mechanical aptitude, and teamwork attitude.

Preferred:

• Experience with Mastercam, Fusion 360, or NX for toolpath verification or minor program edits.
• Background in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or process documentation.
• Familiarity with CMM operations and in-process inspection.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Full-time position; overtime depending on production demands.
• The role requires standing for extended periods, manual dexterity, and use of hand/travel tools.
• It may involve lifting moderate weight up to 40lbs safely (e.g., raw stock, tooling).
• Environment: machine shop production floor—noise, metal swarf/chips, coolant, machinery. Safety gear required.
• Must be a U.S. person (citizen or permanent resident) per ITAR regulations.

Company Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (eligible after 30 working days)
• Paid time off and paid company observed holidays