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Varda Space

In-orbit manufacturing with reentry return services

Senior 5-Axis Prototype Machinist

Precision Machining & ToolmakingUpdated on Nov 14
Full-timeEl Segundo, CA, USA

About the Job

Requirements

  • A high school diploma or equivalency certificate is required; vocational or technical training in machining is preferred.
  • At least 5 years of 5-axis CNC machining experience, focused on aerospace or high-precision components, is required.
  • Proficiency in CAM software such as Mastercam, HyperMILL, or Esprit, and 3D CAD tools such as SolidWorks or Siemens NX, is required.
  • A deep understanding of G-code, M-code, and CNC program editing is required.
  • Expertise machining materials such as titanium, Inconel, and carbon fiber composites is required.
  • Strong knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), blueprint interpretation, and tolerance stack-ups is required.
  • Hands-on experience with precision inspection tools such as micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) is required.
  • U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required to comply with ITAR regulations.

Responsibilities

  • Program, set up, and operate 5-axis CNC machines, such as DMG MORI and Haas UMC, to produce complex aerospace components to tolerances as tight as ±0.0005 inches.
  • Machine a wide range of materials, including Inconel, titanium, stainless steel, and carbon composites, while ensuring surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
  • Create and implement advanced fixturing and work-holding solutions for one-off prototype parts.
  • Develop and refine toolpaths using Mastercam, HSMWorks, or equivalent software, using strategies such as high-speed machining, trochoidal milling, and adaptive clearing.
  • Integrate on-machine probing and macros for part alignment, feature verification, and adaptive toolpath adjustments.
  • Optimize feeds, speeds, and tool selection to reduce cycle times without compromising quality.
  • Own the machining process from raw material selection through final inspection.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback and propose solutions for complex part geometries.
  • Maintain detailed documentation of manufacturing processes and lessons learned to improve shop efficiency and knowledge transfer.
  • Conduct in-process inspections and first-article verifications using tools such as CMMs, laser scanners, micrometers, and other precision measurement instruments.
  • Troubleshoot machining issues through root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions.

Desired Qualifications

  • At least 10 years of hands-on experience in manual and CNC machining, including advanced 5-axis operations, is preferred.
  • Experience designing and fabricating complex fixturing and work-holding solutions is preferred.
  • Ability to lead or mentor junior machinists to improve team efficiency and quality is preferred.
  • Advanced knowledge of multi-tasking machine operations, such as mill-turns and live-tool lathes, is preferred.
  • Mastery in troubleshooting machining challenges and implementing process improvements is preferred.
  • Familiarity with production tracking tools such as Jira and continuous improvement methodologies is preferred.

About the Company

Varda Space

In-orbit manufacturing with reentry return services

Varda Space Industries provides in-space manufacturing by operating production facilities in low Earth orbit and returning finished goods to Earth using reentry capsules. Clients send materials or designs to Varda’s in-orbit production line, where microgravity enables manufacturing processes not possible on Earth. After production, capsules re-enter Earth's atmosphere to deliver goods back to customers, supported by in-orbit equipment and reliable reentry systems. The company aims to make low Earth orbit accessible for multiple industries by building end-to-end space manufacturing infrastructure and industrializing orbit for commercial use.

Company size
201-500
Company stage
Series D
Total funding
$609.5M
Headquarters
El Segundo, CA
Founded
2020

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