CNC Operator, Research & Development

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FT Non Exempt Fountain Valley, CA, US

About the Company:

At Sure Fire, our mission is to build the best illumination tools, suppressors, and tactical products no matter the cost to enhance the safety and performance of those who go into harm's way on our behalf. We also provide these same, no-compromise products to our civilian customers who demand the ultimate in quality, innovation, and performance. We strive to continuously expand our business, product line, workforce, and expertise to preserve our place as the premier provider of these cutting-edge products.

To achieve this, we will continually expand the depth and quality of the Sure Fire brand by refining, expanding, and enhancing our product line, and always aspiring to improve our service and professional relationships. We nurture this culture of excellence in everything we do, and treat everyone we deal with employees, customers, and vendors in a fair and ethical manner.

We're proud of the quality we produce and the people who produce it, and we're looking for talented individuals who want to make a real impact.

About the Role:

The CNC Operator in Research & Development plays a critical role in advancing product innovation by precisely fabricating prototype components using computer numerical control machinery. This position requires meticulous attention to detail to translate engineering designs into physical parts that meet stringent specifications and quality standards. The operator collaborates closely with engineers and designers to refine manufacturing processes and optimize machine performance for new product development.

By maintaining and programming CNC equipment, the operator ensures efficient and accurate production cycles that support iterative testing and evaluation. Ultimately, this role contributes directly to the successful development and launch of cutting-edge products by delivering high-quality prototypes on schedule.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines to produce prototype parts according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Interpret technical blueprints, CAD models, and work instructions to program and adjust CNC machinery.
• Collaborate with R&D engineers to troubleshoot machining issues and recommend process improvements.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of CNC equipment to ensure optimal performance and precision.
• Document production data, machine settings, and quality inspection results to support continuous improvement efforts.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Assist in the development and testing of new machining techniques and tooling for prototype fabrication.
• Maintain good attendance and punctuality.
• Maintain a positive and respectful attitude; cooperate with co-workers, management, internal and external customers, etc.
• Execute daily process improvement using lean manufacturing methodologies.
• Maintain work area by the use of 6S principles
• Work safely at all times and report any unsafe conditions or injuries to your supervisor or manager immediately
• Other duties, as assigned.

Competencies - To perform the job successfully, the candidate should demonstrate the following:

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner;
  Gathers and analyzes information skillfully;
  Develops alternative solutions;
  Works well in group problem solving situations.
• Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming;
  Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things. /li
• Written Communication / Oral Communication - Writes clearly and informatively;
  Edits work for spelling and grammar;
  Presents numerical data effectively;
  Able to read and interpret written information;
  Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations;
  Listens and gets clarification;
  Responds well to questions;
  Demonstrates group presentation skills;
  Participates in meetings.
• Teamwork
  - Balances team and individual…