Senior CNC Programmer & Prototype Machinist
Starpath Robotics
Senior CNC Programmer & Prototype Machinist
Starpath Robotics
Robotic ISRU factories producing lunar propellant
Position Details:
Location: Los Angeles (Hawthorne), CA
Employment Type: Full-time
Department: Starlight Solar
The Mission
At Starpath Robotics, we’re shaping the future of robotics through precision engineering and bold ideas. Our work thrives on the edge of what’s possible — and we’re looking for people who want to push those boundaries with us. We value craftsmanship, speed, and ownership. If you’re passionate about creating high-precision components that directly fuels the next-generation in space, you’ll fit right in.
Senior CNC Programmer & Prototype Machinist – MILL – (3-Axis & 5-Axis Expert)
We’re hiring a Senior CNC Programmer & Machinist with deep expertise in 3-axis CNC milling, 4th-axis rotary, and 5-axis experience strongly preferred. This role requires mastery in CNC programming, machining, set-ups, problem-solving at the machine and program level, and the ability to take ownership from design handoff through finished part.
Responsibilities:
Program and operate CNC mills (3-axis, 4th-axis rotary, 5-axis) to support precision aerospace robotics manufacturing. HASS UMC 750 (5-axis) & HASS VF- series, machines. As well as conventional turning & milling as needed.
Create, edit, and optimize programs for HASS G-code, using Fusion CAM (Autodesk product), Mastercam, or NX CAM (other CAM system experience accepted).
Interpret engineering drawings, CAD/CAM/.STP/3D models, and GD&T requirements to produce efficient machining strategies.
Generate tool lists.
Perform set ups and operate CNC machines.
Maintain records of mark ups on prints, save programs, setup sheets, and tool lists.
Select and optimize tooling, adjusting speeds/feeds for efficiency and tool life.
Design and machine fixture tooling as required.
Work closely with engineering teams, production teams, and provide feedback to improve manufacturability.
Take ownership of the machine shop, be an asset in troubleshooting, and optimization.
Mentor teammates and share best practices to raise the bar across the team.
Pitch in beyond machining when needed — including assisting with assembly of our products — to ensure team success.
Help with necessary maintenance, cleanliness, up-keep and repairs of machinery to the best of your ability.
Required Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent.
8+ years of CNC programming and machining experience.
Deep mastery of 3-axis CNC milling with 4th-axis rotary, & 5-axis machining.
Proficiency in Haas control (New and Old) operation & programming (G-code).
Experience with Fusion 360 (Preferred), Mastercam, , or NX CAM, though strong skills in other CAM platforms are acceptable.
Expertise in programming and operating multi-axis mill and lathe CNC machines.
Strong background in complex surfacing, swarf cuts, contours, and aerospace style applications.
Experience optimizing processes for productivity, quality, and repeatability.
Familiarity with feeds/speeds/tooling types for different material types; 6061/7075 ALM, 300/400 series stainless steel, carbon steels, Inconel, plastics, & similar.
Experience mentoring others or leading shop projects.
Additional Requirements
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
Frequent standing, bending, grasping, pulling, and other shop-floor activities required.
U.S. Person status required (citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) due to export control regulations.
Compensation & Benefits for Production Roles:
$40.00 – $55.00/hour
Actual level and pay determined based on skills, experience, and interview performance.
OVERTIME PAY: Offered during peak build cycles.
EAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, you must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Opportunity:
Starpath is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Benefits:
At Starpath Robotics, base pay is just one part of your total rewards package. We also offer:
Generous benefits including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
Paid time off, holidays, and flexible policies to support balance.
Professional growth opportunities through training and development.
The chance to own high-impact work that directly shapes the future of robotics & space!
A collaborative, mission-driven culture where craftsmanship and innovation are celebrated.
Robotic ISRU factories producing lunar propellant
Starpath Robotics designs and builds robotic factories that can operate on the Moon and Mars to mine local resources, refine them into rocket propellant, and distribute it as a space refueling infrastructure. Its product works by deploying autonomous or remotely operated factory units that extract water ice, process it into propellant, and supply rockets and landers with fuel, enabling in-situ production of propellant for deep-space missions. Unlike others that may offer individual components, Starpath aims to provide a full-stack hardware system for ISRU-based propellant production and distribution as a service, targeting both private space companies and government agencies. The company’s goal is to establish a space refueling station that significantly lowers the cost of moving payloads in deep space by eliminating the need to launch heavy fuel from Earth, supporting the vision of long-term off-world colonies and multi-planet humanity.
Explore more opportunities at Starpath Robotics