Machinist - Level 2
Listed on 2026-07-03
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Manufacturing / Production
CNC Machinist, Manufacturing Engineer
Machinist – Level 2 or Level 3
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon.
We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
If forging a secure future excites you, look no further! Northrop Grumman's Space Sector provides an arena where your passion for innovation and quest for exploration are welcome. As a Machinist – Level 2 or Level 3 your role at Goleta, CA will be pivotal in supporting missions critical to national and global security. Ready to join forces with our visionary team?
A Level 3 Machinist is responsible for operating and programming precision machining equipment to fabricate, modify, and assemble complex aerospace components. The role demands high proficiency in using CNC machines, lathes, mills, and other machining tools with little or no supervision while adhering to rigorous engineering specifications and quality standards for the aerospace industry. This position involves working reading blueprints and CAD drawings, independently setting up, programming, and running jobs while meeting tight tolerances, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining equipment efficiency.
Collaboration with engineers and quality teams is critical to ensure the delivery of high-quality parts for aerospace applications.
In this job, you will:
- Operate, program, and set up CNC mills, lathes, or other machining equipment to produce aerospace-grade components.
- Perform manual machining using tools like grinders, drill presses, and manual mills where needed.
- Create and verify machine programs using Mastercam software for complex parts with tight tolerances.
Blueprint Interpretation:
- Read and interpret aerospace engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, and technical specifications.
- Work with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) standards to ensure dimensional accuracy.
Quality Assurance:
- Perform precision measurements using calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, and CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine).
- Inspect finished components for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and material integrity.
- Document work orders, inspections, and production reports while ensuring compliance with AS9100 or ISO standards.
Process Optimization:
- Troubleshoot and optimize machining processes to improve cycle times, efficiency, and part quality.
- Evaluate tooling wear and select appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, and materials based on project requirements.
Maintenance and Safety:
- Perform routine machine maintenance to avoid downtime and ensure optimal performance.
- Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized workspace to meet aerospace cleanliness and safety standards.
Team
Collaboration:
- Work closely with engineers, designers, and project managers to resolve issues, refine designs for manufacturability, and meet production deadlines.
- Provide guidance to junior machinists if required.
- Other duties as assigned
If this job description reads like it was written specifically for you, consider joining our team!
This position can be filled at either a Level 2 or Level 3.
Basic Qualifications for Level 2:
- Experience:
Minimum 2 years machining experience with 3+ year of 3-axis and 4-axis CNC machining/programming in the aerospace or precision manufacturing industry. - Technical
Skills:
Proficiency in operating multi-axis CNC equipment (such as 3-axis to 4-axis machines) 5-axis is a plus. Experience with CAM software, such as Mastercam, or SolidCAM. Experience with Haas Control and Fanuc (or equivalent) controllers…
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