CNC Operator

About AstroForge

At AstroForge, our mission is to make space resources accessible on Earth. We mine asteroids to extract valuable minerals in space at a lower cost and smaller carbon footprint than current terrestrial mining methods. We offer a unique opportunity to join an exciting team looking to expand humanity’s capabilities in space.

Job Description

As a CNC Operator at AstroForge, you'll set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines to manufacture high-precision aerospace components that support our mission of building the future of space resource extraction. As part of a 70+ person startup, you'll wear more than one hat; this role blends hands-on machining with fabrication, quality inspection, and continuous process improvement, all in a fast-paced environment where no one is pigeonholed into a single task.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines (including 3-axis or 5-axis equipment) and conventional machine tools to fabricate metallic and nonmetallic aerospace components.
• Work from blueprints, sketches, CAD/CAM files, and technical drawings to determine dimensions, tolerances, sequence of operations, and setup requirements.
• Work with a range of materials, including aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and carbon composites, ensuring exceptional surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
• Select, align, and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, and workpieces; calculate and adjust machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, and depth/angle of cut.
• Start and monitor machine operation to detect malfunctions, unusual sound/vibration, or out-of-tolerance conditions, adjusting controls as needed.
• Conduct in-process inspections and first article verifications using precision measurement instruments (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, comparators, CMMs).
• Test and verify conformance of finished workpieces to specifications; remove and replace dull cutting tools as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Document production data, inspection results, and process notes in our production tracking systems to support knowledge transfer and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with engineering and fabrication teams to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback on complex part geometries.
• Maintain and improve the workshop environment, ensuring equipment is well-maintained and processes are documented.

General Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate (vocational or technical training in machining preferred).
• Proven experience as a CNC machine operator, with a focus on aerospace or high-precision components.
• Basic understanding of CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, HyperMILL, or Fusion 360) and 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Siemens NX).
• Skilled in operating CNC machinery, tooling, and precision measurement instruments.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and mechanical documents.
• Mechanical aptitude, strong attention to detail, and a results-driven approach.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work onsite in Seal Beach, CA.
• Availability to work evening/overnight shifts, such as 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, or weekend shifts on a regular or rotating basis.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience with 3-axis or 5-axis CNC machining and hands-on work with exotic materials such as titanium, Inconel, and carbon fiber composites.
• Experience designing and fabricating fixturing and work-holding solutions.
• Fabrication experience, including hand tools, saws, and welding (GTAW/GMAW with aerospace experience).
• Experience with non-destructive testing tools such as X-ray or eddy current inspection methods.
• Familiarity with GD&T, blueprint interpretation, and tolerance stack-ups.
• Completion of a machining apprenticeship program.

Benefits

• 100% paid medical, dental, and life insurance coverage
• Vision and FSA benefits available
• 3 weeks of PTO + 1 week of sick time
• 10 paid Holidays
• Retirement savings plan - 401(k), with company match
• Equity on the ground floor of a startup

Salary

$22/hr - $28/hr

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 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. Government.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.