Astrolab

Sr. CNC Programmer/Operator

12536 Chadron Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250

On-site · Full-time · $60–$80/hr (as posted)

First seen by offpeak October 6, 2026

See your drive time Apply on Astrolab's site

Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on — rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

The Sr. CNC Programmer / Operator is a highly experienced machinist responsible for programming, setup, prove-out, and operation of advanced CNC equipment supporting precision aerospace and hardware manufacturing. This role will have a strong emphasis on 5-axis machining and mill-turn applications, including complex multi-sided components, tight-tolerance parts, and challenging materials.

The ideal candidate is equally comfortable writing and optimizing CNC programs, setting up machines, selecting tooling, troubleshooting machining issues, and running parts on the floor. This person will serve as a technical resource for the machining team and help establish robust, repeatable, and efficient manufacturing processes.
The Sr. CNC Programmer / Operator will work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Production to translate engineering designs into manufacturable hardware while continuously improving machining capability, cycle time, quality, and process reliability.

What you'll do:

CNC Programming

Develop, modify, prove out, and optimize CNC programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining centers and mill-turn equipment
Program complex aerospace components involving multi-sided machining, tight tolerances, and complex geometries
Develop efficient toolpaths that balance cycle time, tool life, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy
Utilize CAM software to program complex components and optimize existing toolpaths
Apply appropriate machining strategies for roughing, semi-finishing, finishing, drilling, tapping, boring, probing, and specialty operations
Perform simulation and post-processing and verify G-code before machine execution
Make program adjustments based on machine behavior, inspection results, tooling performance, and operator feedback
Establish standardized programming practices and reusable machining strategies

5-Axis & Mill-Turn Machining

Program and operate simultaneous 5-axis and 3+2 machining applications
Program and operate mill-turn / turning centers, including live tooling and complex rotational features
Develop workholding and fixturing approaches for complex parts
Manage coordinate systems, work offsets, tool length compensation, cutter compensation, probing, and machine kinematics
Understand and troubleshoot issues associated with tool orientation, rotary-axis positioning, collision avoidance, and machine simulation
Perform first-article and first-run prove-outs of complex programs

Machine Setup & Operation

Set up CNC machines from drawings, models, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation
Select appropriate cutting tools, holders, workholding, speeds, feeds, and machining parameters
Load and verify programs, tooling, offsets, fixtures, and inspection equipment
Operate CNC equipment safely and efficiently while maintaining tight dimensional control
Monitor machining processes and make real-time adjustments as required
Troubleshoot machining problems including chatter, tool wear, poor surface finish, dimensional drift, burr formation, and tool breakage
Establish and document repeatable setup procedures

What you'll bring:

Basic Qualifications

5 + years of CNC programming in a manufacturing environment using CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, NX CAM, GibbsCAM, or similar platforms
Experience operating and/or programming mill-turn or multi-tasking CNC equipment
Experience independently supporting the machining process from CAD model or engineering drawing through CAM programming, machine setup, prove-out, and completion of finished parts
Experience using precision measurement and inspection tools and working to defined quality requirements and specifications

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in aerospace, space hardware, automotive, medical device, or another high-precision manufacturing environment
Experience with DMG MORI or similar CNC machining platforms
Experience using NX CAM
Experience with ERP, MRP, MES, or other digital manufacturing systems and workflows
Experience with fixture design and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles
Experience supporting prototype development and/or low-volume production environments
Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or similar manufacturing methodologies
Experience troubleshooting and solving complex machining or manufacturing challenges
Experience with G-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds and speeds, and work holding

Additional Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods
Occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
May require occasional overtime or shift flexibility to support production demands

Benefits and Perks

Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
Equity ownership in the company
Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
401(k) plan with company match
Flexible PTO and parental leave
Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks

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