Advanced Prototype Machinist (5-Axis / Mill-Turn)
Job Description
About AdAstra
AdAstra Talent Advisors is a headhunting and talent advising firm focused on the Climate, Space, and Defense sectors of Hard Tech. This is a direct hire, permanent placement position for a client based in San Francisco, CA.
About the Company:
Our client is a fast-growing startup on a mission to reinvent supersonic aircraft. They are an engineering collective innovating on engine, airframe, and systems that the industry hasn’t in over 50 years. With the world’s first turboelectric adaptive jet engine — efficient at every speed — they are ready to revolutionize flight from national security to commercial aviation.
Our client is a team of hardcore engineers who live and breathe aerospace. They’re generalists who each have subject matter expertise and operate in a flat organizational structure. They move fast and build world-changing technology in a pragmatic and competent workplace culture.
This is a direct hire, permanent placement position for a client of AdAstra Talent Advisors. This company is based in San Francisco, CA. More company details will be shared during an initial call.
About the Role
Our client is looking for an Advanced Prototype Machinist to join their growing team. The ideal candidate is a proven leader, communicator, and problem solver capable of rising to any challenge in a dynamic startup environment. Your work will have a direct impact on business outcomes. It will be fast-paced, requiring you to adapt quickly.
In this role, your mission will be to program and set up machines from drawings and CAD models provided by engineering, as well as provide DFM and process improvements. The primary focus will be on 5-axis milling of complex components, such as turbine blades and valve assemblies, along with working on Horizontal and Vertical Turning Centers with milling capabilities. Additionally, you will assist in the assembly of prototypes with the team. They are looking for someone that has a background in high tolerance work similar to the semiconductor, medical or aerospace industry.
Responsibilities
- Program machines using CAD / CAM software
- Set up machines with tooling and workpiece
- Create some of the coolest looking parts!
- Turning projects range from .100” sized parts to 40” inches in diameter
- Assist in sourcing materials, tooling or equipment
- Basic and advanced level inspection of machined parts
- Assist in assembly of prototype jet engines
- Create a safe and clean work environment
- Forklift and Rigging
Qualifications
- 7+ years experience in aerospace or similar precision machining industry
- Hands-on experience running 5-axis or mill-turn machines — you’ve programmed and operated complex jobs independently.
- Strong background in advanced inspection techniques, including CMM, FARO arm, and on-machine probing — highly preferred
- Strong background in CAD and CAM - NX preferred, Solidworks HSMworks,Fusion, etc.
- Experience in fluid fittings, manufacturing and identification (AN, Flare, NPT, NPTF, etc.)
- Experience working with tight tolerances and surface finishes
- Fixture design and set up experience
- Experience with exotics from the mild to wild (Ti 6/4, 718, 625, Mar, etc.)
- Experience machining 3D printed materials
- Assembly experience (torque specs, tooling, etc.)
- Ability to operate machinery and lifting equipment ( forklift, overhead crane, etc.)
- Ability to lift 40+ lbs
The above qualifications are desired, not required. We encourage you to apply if you are a strong candidate with only some of the desired skills and experience listed.
Logistical Requirements
- This is an onsite, full-time position based in San Francisco, CA.
ITAR Requirement
- To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Cash compensation of $140,000 - $180,000. Compensation is determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity.
Benefit Highlights
- Full healthcare, vision, and dental benefits
- Competitive pay and transparent stock option plan (where applicable)
- Access to a 401(k)
- Flexible work environment
Additional Information
- Our client values in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen their company culture. They consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
- Our client is an equal opportunity employer. They proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
About AdAstra
AdAstra Talent Advisors is a headhunting and talent advising firm focused on the Climate, Space, and Defense sectors of Hard Tech. We specialize in pairing highly technical and executive talent with some of the world’s leading Hard Tech startups.
At AdAstra, we catalyze the innovations that future generations depend on by placing the right people in the right seats. Our dedicated work enables inconceivable technology from Earth, to the stars. And it’s all because of trailblazing talent like you - those driven to do what’s never been done before.
We care about long term relationships with both candidates and companies. Even if the role we initially discuss isn’t a perfect fit, it’s likely we’ll have something relevant to share with you in the future.
Join us on our journey by following along via LinkedIn!
CEO, Seyka Mejeur | LinkedIn profile
CTO / COO, Brian Mejeur | LinkedIn profile
AdAstra Talent Advisors | LinkedIn profile
AdAstra Website