CNC Operator​/Machinist

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Full Time Colorado Springs, CO, US

4 days ago Requisition

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA, Inc. High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative CNC Machinist to support research and development and rapid prototyping projects activities to transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The CNC Machinist will work within the Rapid Development Group (RDG) team consisting of other machinists, engineers, and interns.

Core Responsibilities

• Create, modify, troubleshoot, and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam and machine controls
• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers
• Machine components using 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis equipment as required
• Take ownership of assigned parts from initial planning and programming through setup, machining, inspection, and completion
• Support a variety of machining workloads ranging from one-off R&D prototypes to repeat builds and small-to-moderate production runs
• Operate established programs, setups, and parts developed by other machinists when required to support team workload, production needs, and schedule commitments
• Design and manufacture custom fixtures, tooling, and work holding solutions
• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing process documentation
• Determine appropriate machining strategies, cutting tools, work holding, feeds, speeds, and sequences to efficiently produce conforming hardware
• Perform first-article and in-process inspections to verify dimensional and quality requirements
• Utilize precision measurement equipment including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and other inspection equipment
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, programming, setup, and dimensional issues to minimize downtime and scrap
• Maintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and other product quality requirements throughout the manufacturing process
• Work with a variety of metals, plastics, and other materials commonly used in prototype and production machining
• Collaborate directly with engineering, quality, production, and other machinists to improve part manufacturability and manufacturing processes
• Provide practical DFM feedback to engineering personnel when designs present machining, inspection, tolerance, or production challenges
• Assist and mentor machine operators and less-experienced machinists as appropriate
• Document successful setups, tooling strategies, program revisions, and process improvements to support repeatability and future production
• Support shop priorities and transition between machines, programs, and jobs as workload demands
• Maintain personal work areas, machines, tooling, and common shop areas in a clean and organized condition
• Follow all company safety requirements and applicable OSHA standards
• Perform other duties, assignments, and responsibilities as reasonably assigned by management in support of departmental, programmatic, and organizational objectives

Equipment and Facility Responsibilities

• Perform routine preventative maintenance on CNC equipment and associated tooling
• Coordinate…