Junior CNC Machinist

About Westmag

Westmag (Western Magnetics Company) is a leading American manufacturer specializing in drone motors and robot actuators, dedicated to designing and producing high-quality products in South San Francisco. Serving the global market, Westmag is rapidly scaling its production to meet the demands of top drone and robotic companies. With strong backing from notable investors such as Andreessen Horowitz and Founders Fund, Westmag is positioned for innovative growth in the field of electromechanical systems.

About the role

As a Junior CNC Machinist at Westmag, you will set up, run, and inspect the precision components that go into our drone motors and robot actuators. Working alongside experienced machinists and engineers in our South San Francisco facility, you will operate CNC mills and lathes, hold tight tolerances, and help keep production on schedule as we scale. This role is designed for machinists with 2–3 years of industry experience who are ready to take on more responsibility and grow their skills in setup, programming and process improvement.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes to produce precision parts to print.

• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T callouts, work instructions, and setup sheets.

• Load programs, set tools and work offsets, and perform first-article inspections.

• Make offset and minor program adjustments to maintain dimensions and surface finish.

• Perform in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, and other inspection tools.

• Monitor tool wear and replace or adjust tooling as needed.

• Troubleshoot basic machining issues, such as chatter, dimensional drift, and poor finish, and escalate when needed.

• Record production and inspection data accurately.

• Perform routine machine maintenance and keep work areas clean and organized.

• Work with engineering and quality to improve processes, cycle times, and yield.

• Follow all safety, quality, and production standards.

Required qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.

• 2–3 years of experience as a CNC machinist or operator in a production or precision machining environment.

• Experience setting up and running CNC mills and/or lathes.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T.

• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments.

• Working knowledge of G-code and M-code, tool offsets, and work offsets.

• Strong math skills, including basic trigonometry.

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to hold tight tolerances.

• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

• Authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with Haas, Okuma, Mazak, DMG Mori, or similar CNC controls.

• Experience with multi-axis or mill-turn machining.

• CAM programming experience, such as Fusion 360 or Mastercam.

• Experience machining aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or magnetic materials.

• Technical or vocational training in machining, or a credential such as NIMS.

• Experience in high-volume production, aerospace, or electromechanical manufacturing.

• Interest in drones, robotics, or electromechanical systems.

What we offer

• Opportunity to grow with a fast-scaling American manufacturer.

• A clear path to Setup Technician, Senior CNC Machinist, or Programmer roles.

• Training on advanced equipment and processes.

• [Benefits: medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off — confirm.]

Location and schedule: South San Francisco, CA · 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Westmag is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.