CNC Programmer (Starship Components) - Level 4/5
SpaceXHawthorne, CAPosted 24 February 2026
Job Description
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
CNC PROGRAMMER (STARSHIP COMPONENTS) – LEVEL 4/5
As a CNC Programmer at SpaceX, you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop novel solutions at the cutting edge of space technology. You will work on hardware that will deliver satellites into Earth orbit, ferry humans to and from the International Space Station, and ultimately extend humanity’s reach beyond the Earth and Moon. You will provide input into the design and development of new and existing hardware and take a lead role in creating robust machining processes to create parts for our current and next generation vehicles.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Use Esprit CAM to program and generate G-Code for Okuma mill-turn lathes and mills, with a focus on optimizing complex, multi-axis programs
Create and refine tooling and process setup sheets for new part introductions, incorporating lessons learned from prior iterations
Set-up, prove out, and operate programs on Okuma mill-turn lathes and mills, troubleshooting issues independently to minimize downtime
Contribute to the development and utilization of a CAM database for efficient new part programming, including data analysis to improve repeatability
Review quality concerns from piece part inspection, lead root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to processes
Analyze piece parts for DFM to ensure optimization for manufacturing; collaborate closely with engineering to recommend and implement drawing changes
Integrate feedback from engineering and production to rapidly iterate on part processes and designs, mentoring junior programmers on best practices
Pursue and share continuous education opportunities; stay up to date on the latest manufacturing technologies and integrate them into team workflows
Proactively keep products moving, identify potential production inhibitors early, and propose solutions to management
Maintain physical 5S and electronic organization with adherence to shop/SpaceX standards; assist in developing and enforcing standards for broader team adoption
Collaborate with other SpaceX machine shop facilities to share capabilities, optimize resource allocation, and resolve capacity/scheduling challenges
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or equivalency certificate
5+ years of CNC machining experience
2+ years of CNC programming experience
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Understanding of advanced machining processes and equipment, including integration of automation
Proficiency in CNC programming using Esprit CAM software, with experience in custom post-processing
Solid knowledge of geometry, algebra, and trigonometry applied to complex part geometries
Experience reading blueprints and interpreting all drawing criteria, notes, and GDT with high accuracy
Familiarity with Okuma OSP controls and troubleshooting multi-axis operations
Experience programming multi-axis lathes and mills, including 4- and 5-axis applications
Demonstrated ability to assess personal and team performance, seek feedback, pursue training, and share expertise to build team capabilities
Proactive approach to quality improvement, with a track record of accuracy, thoroughness, and process enhancements
Experience drafting detailed instructions, such as safety protocols, operating/maintenance guides, and procedural manuals
Strong skills in routine and technical correspondence to facilitate clear communication across teams
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to work one of the following shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed:
1st shift start time is 5:00 AM
2nd shift start time is 3:00 PM
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
Ability to work with your hands and use tools/control ... (truncated, view full listing at source)
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