Senior CNC Machinist

Responsibilities CNC Machining & Manufacturing Execution

• Program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC equipment (mills, lathes, and specialty equipment) for complex prototype and low ‑ volume parts.

• Develop, optimize, and maintain machining strategies, tool paths, feeds/speeds, and workholding for R&D components.

• Perform in-process inspections using precision measurement tools and adjust processes to maintain tight tolerances.

• Drive first ‑ time quality through disciplined machining practices and root ‑ cause analysis when issues arise.

Application Engineering & Technical Leadership

• Translate engineering models and drawings into efficient, manufacturable machining processes.

• Partner closely with Design Engineering to provide DFM/DFX feedback, resolve ambiguities, and suggest enhancements.

• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to refine process flows, tooling strategies, and equipment capability.

• Support project teams by evaluating machining feasibility, material selection impacts, and part design risks.

Cross ‑ Functional Collaboration

• Work directly with Project Managers and Project Leads to prioritize work, align expectations, communicate risks, and ensure timely delivery.

• Serve as a technical liaison between machining operations and internal customers, enabling fast iteration cycles and clear communication.

• Coordinate internal logistics, including material routing, part movement, and scheduling within the shop.

Vendor & Supply Chain Coordination

• Partner with internal Sourcing and Logistics teams to manage material procurement, outsourced operations, and incoming inspection.

• Ensure external partners meet internal quality standards.

Continuous Improvement in a Startup Environment

• Contribute to the development of machining standards, shop documentation, and scalable workflows appropriate for a growing fusion startup.

• Evaluate and recommend new equipment, tools, fixturing, or software to increase capability and reduce lead times.

• Foster a culture of safety, innovation, and rapid learning.

Qualifications • 7–10+ years of CNC machining experience with at least 3 years in prototype or R\&D environments.

• Strong proficiency in CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360, hyperMILL, NX CAM).

• Deep understanding of materials used in energy systems (stainless steels, nickel alloys, refractory metals, engineered plastics, etc.).

• Experience with GD\&T, high ‑ precision inspection methods, and tight ‑ tolerance machining.

• Proven ability to collaborate with engineering teams and communicate clearly with technical and non ‑ technical stakeholders.

• Experience working in fast ‑ paced, ambiguous environments—preferably in hardware startups, aerospace, energy, or robotics.

• Ability to self-direct work, manage multiple priorities, and maintain composure under time pressure.

Desired • Background supporting complex, physics-driven systems (vacuum components, high ‑ energy systems, plasma devices, cryogenic assemblies, etc.).

• Experience with manual machining, EDM, or additive manufacturing.

• Familiarity with ERP/MRP/MES systems and shop-floor traceability.