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As a Prototype Machinist at Impulse Space, you will be joining a fast=paced & dynamic machine shop. The ideal candidate will be proficient in both manual and CNC mill and lathe operations, with a strong background in machining complex aerospace components. You’ll work with a variety of materials, including exotic metals such as Inconel and titanium, as well as aluminum and stainless steel. This role requires a flexible, problem-solving mindset and a great attitude to thrive in an ever-changing environment.
Responsibilities
- Machine complex aerospace propulsion components from exotic materials (Inconel, titanium, stainless steel) and standard materials (aluminum, steel), ensuring adherence to tight tolerances (±0.0001”)
- Support quick-turn requests and rework parts as needed, balancing precision with speed to meet dynamic production schedules and engineering demands
- Provide feedback to engineers on part designs, offering practical insights on manufacturability, material selection, and cost-effective machining processes
- Deburr, clean, and inspect parts to ensure quality and compliance with engineering specifications, including performing on-machine deburring to minimize manual labor
- Collaborate with engineers and shop leadership to identify areas for process improvements and implement changes that enhance efficiency and reduce cycle times
- Perform machine setups and programming adjustments for CNC machines, including modifying G-Code and adjusting feeds and speeds based on material type and part geometry
- Perform precision inspections using hand tools (micrometers, calipers, and CMMs) to verify part dimensions, and ensure conformance to specifications before moving to the next step
- Ensure shop cleanliness and adherence to 5S standards, including performing routine maintenance and upkeeping machines, tools, and work areas to ensure optimal performance
- Troubleshoot machining issues such as tool wear, machine offsets, and part defects, implementing corrective actions and collaborating with the team to resolve problems
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, offering suggestions for optimizing machining processes, reducing waste, and increasing productivity
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate (vocational or technical training in machining preferred)
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in manual machining operations (milling and lathe)
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, GD&T, and technical drawings, with the ability to machine parts to tight tolerances (±0.0005”)
- Experience machining various materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and some exotic metals such as titanium and Inconel
- Experience creating and implementing work holding and fixturing for a wide variety of parts
- Basic understanding of CNC machine operations, with experience in setup, operation, and light programming
- Proficiency in using hand inspection tools, such as micrometers, calipers, and dial indicators, to verify part dimensions and tolerances
- Ability to adjust G-Code and feeds/speeds during CNC operations
- Strong attention to detail and focus on quality, with the ability to follow detailed processes and instructions
- Basic troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve minor issues with machinery or parts
- Willingness to work in a fast-paced, changing environment and adapt to shifting production priorities
Preferred Skills and Experience
- 10+ years of hands-on experience in both manual and CNC machining, including advanced knowledge of both milling and lathe operations
- Deep expertise in machining exotic aerospace materials, including Inconel, Monel, titanium, stainless steel, and other specialized alloys, with knowledge of material properties and machining best practices
- Advanced proficiency in CNC programming, including setup, operation, and modification of G-Code to optimize machine performance for complex parts
- Experience working with tight tolerances (±0.0005”), particularly for aerospace or high-precision industries
- Experience designing and manufacturing work holding and fixturing for complex and advanced hardware manufacturing and/or repairs
- Expertise in interpreting complex blueprints, GD&T, and technical drawings, with a deep understanding of tolerance stack-ups, feature relationships, and the application of advanced machining techniques
- Mastery in using precision inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, CMMs, surface gauges), including the ability to perform in-depth part inspections to verify critical dimensions and tolerances
- Experience leading or mentoring junior machinists, with a focus on improving shop efficiency, quality control, and process optimization
- Extensive knowledge of multiple CNC control systems, including Heidenhain, Haas, Fanuc, Siemens, and others
- Proven ability to troubleshoot complex machining issues, including machine breakdowns, tooling issues, and part non-conformances, while implementing corrective actions
- Strong project management and organizational skills, capable of overseeing multiple projects and ensuring deadlines are met in a high-stakes environment
- Continuous improvement mindset, with experience leading process optimization efforts, reducing cycle times, and improving overall shop productivity
Additional Information:
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including shifts, overtime, and weekends as necessary to meet production needs
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted and handle physical tasks such as standing, stooping, bending, and working in tight spaces for extended periods (8+ hours)
- Comfort with repetitive movements, including using hands to operate machinery, tools, and control devices in a fast-paced, high-noise environment
- Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members and leadership
- Proficiency with standard manufacturing software (or shop-floor systems) to log job details and track part progress
Compensation bands are 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. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
