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Senior CNC Programmer & Machinist (3-Axis Expert, 5-Axis Preferred)

Starpath

Starpath

Software Engineering
hawthorne, ca, usa
USD 30-53 / hour
Posted on Oct 2, 2025

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.