Associate Machinist

Program Summary

K  strives to create a safer, more secure and sustainable world by bringing together the best and brightest to deliver technologies and solutions that help our customers accomplish their most critical missions and objectives. Our Las Cruces, NM office is an engineering and manufacturing facility that provides solutions for our customers with safety and quality at the forefront of our operations.

Associate Machinist

• Mentorship from senior welders, machinists and electrical technicians
• Cutting edge projects, relevant to real world challenges
• Work in a collaborative and dynamic team environment
• Competitive pay and great company culture

The Associate Machinist performs complex, machining operations with minimal supervision, utilizing equipment such as lathes, milling machines, and drill presses to produce precision components. This role requires the ability to set up and machine parts to exacting tolerances, interpret detailed drawings and specifications, and verify quality using precision measuring instruments. The position involves producing precision components while maintaining high standards of quality, accuracy, and workmanship.

The Associate Machinist may also assist other departments by supporting welders, electrical technicians, and shop leadership with materials, tools, equipment, cleaning, and basic maintenance activities as directed.

• Operate lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and related equipment to produce precision parts.
• Read and interpret drawings to set up and machine to tight tolerances.
• Inspect parts using precision tools to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Execute complex setups and fabricate detailed features.
• Assist other shop functions with materials, equipment, cleaning, and basic support tasks.

• Must be a US citizen.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Basic understanding of machining practices, tools, and shop equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications.
• Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift and carry materials weighing 50 to 100 pounds.

• Prior hands‑on experience with manual machining equipment (lathes, milling machines, drill presses).
• Familiarity with CNC machines or basic programming concepts.
• Ability to read complex drawings and perform advanced setups with minimal guidance.

K  offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

K  is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.