Senior CNC Programmer & Machinist (3-Axis Expert, 5-Axis Preferred)
Starpath
Location
Hawthorne, CA
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Production
Senior CNC Programmer & Machinist (3-Axis Expert, 5-Axis Preferred)
At Starpath Robotics, we’re shaping the future of robotics through precision engineering and bold ideas. Our work thrives on the edge of what’s possible — and we’re looking for people who want to push those boundaries with us. We value craftsmanship, speed, and ownership. If you’re passionate about creating high-precision components that directly fuel next-generation in space, you’ll fit right in.
The Role
We’re hiring a Senior CNC Programmer & Machinist with deep expertise in 3-axis CNC milling and 5-axis experience strongly preferred. This role requires mastery in CNC programming, machining, set-ups, problem-solving at the machine and program level, and the ability to take ownership from design handoff through finished part.
While this is a senior-level role, we’re also open to exceptional candidates who can prove their skills and perform at their relative level.
Responsibilities
• Program and operate CNC mills (3-axis, 4th-axis rotary, 5-axis preferred) to support precision aerospace robotics manufacturing.
• Create, edit, and optimize programs in Haas G-code, using Mastercam (preferred) or NX CAM (other CAM systems also acceptable).
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD/CAM models, and GD&T requirements to produce efficient machining strategies.
• Perform set ups and operate CNC machines.
• Maintain records of mark ups on prints, save programs, setup sheets, and tool lists.
• Select and optimize tooling, adjusting speeds/feeds for efficiency and tool life.
• Design and machine fixture tooling as required.
• Work closely with engineering teams, production teams, and provide feedback to improve manufacturability.
• Take ownership of the machine shop, be an asset in troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Mentor teammates and share best practices to raise the bar across the team.
• Pitch in beyond machining when needed — including assisting with assembly of our products — to ensure team success.
• Help with necessary maintenance, cleanliness, up-keep and repairs of machinery to the best of your ability.
Basic Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of CNC programming and machining experience.
• Deep mastery of 3-axis CNC milling, with exposure to 5-axis machining (preferred).
• Proficiency in Haas control programming (G-code).
• Experience with Mastercam (preferred) or NX CAM, though strong skills in other CAM platforms are acceptable.
Preferred Skills & Experience
• 8+ years of CNC programming and machining experience.
• Expertise in programming and operating multi-axis mill and lathe CNC machines.
• Strong background in complex surfacing, contours, and aerospace style applications.
• Experience optimizing processes for productivity, quality, and repeatability.
• Familiarity with feeds/speeds/tooling types for different material types; 6061/7075 ALM, 300/400 series stainless steel, carbon steels, Inconel, plastics, & similar.
• Experience mentoring others or leading shop projects.
Additional Requirements
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Frequent standing, bending, grasping, pulling, and other shop-floor activities required.
• U.S. Person status required (citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) due to export control regulations.
Compensation & Benefits
• Level 1: $30.00 – $38.00/hour
• Level 2: $34.00 – $43.00/hour
• Level 3 (Senior): $43.00 – $53.00/hour
Actual level and pay determined based on skills, experience, and interview performance.
• OVERTIME PAY possibly offered during peak build cycles.
At Starpath Robotics, base pay is just one part of your total rewards package. We also offer:
• Generous benefits including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
• Paid time off (15 days), holidays, and flexible policies to support balance.
• Professional growth opportunities through training and development.
• The chance to own high-impact work that directly shapes the future of robotics & space!
• A collaborative, mission-driven culture where craftsmanship and innovation are celebrated.
EAR REQUIREMENTS:
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.