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Job Description
CNC Programmer
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
Department: Production & Test
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hawthorne, California
Compensation: $95,000 - $135,000 / year
Description
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
The CNC Programmer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC machining programs to support the production of high-precision components and assemblies. This role works closely with manufacturing engineering, machinists, quality, and production teams to ensure efficient machining processes, high product quality, and on-time delivery in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate has strong experience with multi-axis CNC equipment, CAM software, GD&T interpretation, and process improvement.
The CNC Programmer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC machining programs to support the production of high-precision components and assemblies. This role works closely with manufacturing engineering, machinists, quality, and production teams to ensure efficient machining processes, high product quality, and on-time delivery in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate has strong experience with multi-axis CNC equipment, CAM software, GD&T interpretation, and process improvement.
What you'll do:
- Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs for mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers using CAM software.
- Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, and GD&T requirements to develop machining strategies.
- Select tooling, cutting parameters, workholding methods, and machining sequences to maximize efficiency and quality.
- Support setup and prove-out activities on CNC equipment, including first article verification and troubleshooting.
- Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and machinists to improve cycle times, reduce scrap, and enhance process capability.
- Develop and maintain setup sheets, tooling lists, work instructions, and process documentation.
- Troubleshoot machining and programming issues to support production schedules and minimize downtime.
- Participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions related to machining quality or process concerns.
- Ensure programs comply with company quality standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on lean manufacturing, process optimization, and automation.
- Maintain revision control and organization of CNC programs and related documentation.
- Assist with machine capability studies, fixture development, and manufacturing process validation.
What you'll bring:
Qualifications:
- Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent experience in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field.
- 3+ years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Proficiency with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, NX CAM, GibbsCAM, or similar platforms.
- Experience programming CNC mills and/or lathes, including 3-axis and multi-axis machining.
- Strong understanding of G-code, machining principles, tooling, feeds and speeds, and workholding.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
- Familiarity with precision inspection tools and quality requirements.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills in a cross-functional environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in aerospace, space hardware, automotive, medical device, or other high-precision manufacturing industries.
- Experience with 5-axis machining and complex geometries.
- Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and digital manufacturing workflows.
- Familiarity with fixture design and DFM (Design for Manufacturability) principles.
- Experience supporting prototype and low-volume production environments.
- Understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
Key Competencies:
- Attention to detail
- Technical problem solving
- Process optimization
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Ownership and accountability
- Time management and prioritization
- Continuous improvement mindset
Work Environment:
- Manufacturing and machine shop environment.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
- May require occasional overtime or shift flexibility to support production demands.
Benefits and Perks
- Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
- Equity ownership in the company
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Flexible PTO and parental leave
- Home office set up reimbursement
- Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
- Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks