CNC Machinist - Precision Prototyping
- Compensation
- $30–$50 / hr
- Location
- Los Angeles, CA
- Work setup
- Onsite
- Seniority
- Not specified
- Employment
- Not specified
- Experience
- 3+ years
- Category
- Skilled trades
- Posted
Skills
Must have
- 3+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience in a machine shop, precision manufacturing, or engineering prototyping environment.
- Experience operating CNC milling machines and/or CNC lathes.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, machining specifications, and basic GD&T.
- Experience using precision measuring instruments, including calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, and height gauges.
- Understanding of machining fundamentals, including cutting tools, speeds and feeds, material removal, and surface finishes.
- Experience machining common metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium.
- Ability to recognize machining defects, troubleshoot basic issues, and maintain consistent part quality.
- Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and commitment to precision workmanship.
- Ability to work independently on assigned machining tasks and collaborate effectively with engineers and other technicians.
- Willingness to occasionally support time-sensitive projects outside standard business hours.
Nice to have
- Experience operating multi-axis CNC mills, including 4-axis or 5-axis machines.
- Experience in prototype, high-mix/low-volume, or research and development manufacturing environments.
- Experience machining tight-tolerance components for aerospace, robotics, optics, or precision mechanical applications.
- Experience operating manual machine tools, including Bridgeport-style vertical milling machines and manual engine lathes, for precision machining, prototype fabrication, part modification, and rework.
- Familiarity with SolidWorks or other CAD software for viewing and interpreting part models.
- Experience with complex workholding, custom fixtures, and precision machining techniques.
- Familiarity with wire EDM, waterjet cutting, laser cutting, and additive manufacturing.
- Experience with CMM inspection or other advanced metrology equipment.
- Experience machining specialty alloys, difficult-to-machine materials, or components requiring specialized handling.
- Familiarity with vacuum-compatible materials and manufacturing cleanliness requirements.
- General fabrication experience, including TIG welding, sheet metal fabrication, or mechanical assembly.
- Experience with deburring, surface preparation, painting, and other finishing processes.
Full description
About Observable Space
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.
We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.
Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit .
About the Role
Observable Space is seeking a skilled CNC Machinist to join our advanced prototyping facility in Los Angeles. This hands-on role focuses on operating CNC equipment to manufacture complex, high-precision components for advanced optical, aerospace, and mechanical systems.
Our facility supports rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing of challenging components using materials such as aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, specialty alloys, and glass. We are looking for a detail-oriented machinist with strong machining fundamentals, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to producing high-quality precision parts.
The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced prototyping environment, collaborating with engineers, troubleshooting machining challenges, and adapting to evolving project requirements. This is an opportunity to work with advanced manufacturing equipment and contribute directly to the development of next-generation optical and aerospace technologies.
This position offers a flexible work environment, with occasional evening or weekend availability required to support time-sensitive projects.
What You'll DoCNC Machining & Operations
- Operate CNC milling machines, including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis equipment, and CNC lathes to manufacture precision components.
- Machine complex parts from engineering drawings, CAD models, and established machining instructions.
- Monitor machining operations, making necessary adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and part quality.
- Select and change cutting tools, monitor tool wear, and identify machining issues during production.