CNC Machinist​/Mill Operator

About The Role

Wild West Systems is building advanced defense weapons for the future warfighter in a fast-paced, high-output environment. We are looking for a mid-level CNC Machinist/Operator who can take ownership of machines, keep them running, and produce high-quality parts with minimal oversight.

This is not a button-pushing role. You will be responsible for setups, offsets, inspection, and keeping production moving.

• Operate CNC mills and lathes (3‑axis, 5‑axis, and mill‑turn)
• Perform machine setups, tool changes, and work holding setups
• Adjust and manage offsets to maintain part tolerances
• Run production and prototype parts (high‑mix, low‑volume + production runs)
• Inspect parts using:
  • Calipers, micrometers, gauges
  • Keyence optical inspection systems
• Sign off on part quality and take ownership of output
• Manage tooling, tool wear, and replacements
• Handle coolant systems and chip management
• Perform basic preventative maintenance on machines
• Identify issues and take action to reduce scrap and improve efficiency
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area (5S mindset)

• Experience operating CNC mills and lathes (Okuma, DMG, Mazak, etc.)
• Familiarity with controls:
  • Okuma OSP, Fanuc, Siemens (or similar)
• Ability to:
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings
  • Hold tight tolerances consistently
  • Set and adjust offsets independently
• Experience with 5‑axis machining environments
• Comfortable running both mill and lathe work
• Strong inspection skills (hand tools required)
• High ownership mindset – you fix problems, not pass them on
• Ability to work with urgency and keep machines running

• Aerospace or defense machining experience
• Exposure to lean manufacturing principles

• Day shift (primary)
• Occasional overtime, late nights, or weekends when needed to hit deadlines
• Fast‑paced startup environment – priorities shift, speed matters

• Machines are running consistently with minimal downtime
• Parts are in tolerance without constant supervision
• Scrap is minimized and issues are proactively addressed
• Work area is clean, organized, and efficient
• You take ownership of your machines and output

This role is assigned onsite at our Leander, TX facility.

Wild West Systems is committed to providing its employees with competitive salaries and benefits in order to increase employee satisfaction and productivity.

Health Insurance: 100% coverage for employees, 90% for spouse/family

Vision and Dental: 100% Coverage

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

We do not work with staffing companies. Direct applicants only.

Salary: $26 - $34 per hour