CNC Programmer

Raptor Scientific's RF Systems (RFS) group specializes in radar cross section (RCS) measurements. We design and build the cutting edge electronic instrumentation used to test and map out invisible radar reflections for stealth aircraft, drones, and missiles.

Our Livermore site is rapidly expanding its production capacity, unlocking massive potential across our entire engineering and manufacturing portfolio. We are building a culture centered on true ownership, continuous improvement, and technical excellence. If you want to build meaningful technology, solve real hardware challenges, and grow your career in a high-performance defense environment, Raptor Scientific is where you want to be.

The components you program here hold tolerances that matter. They become part of calibration and test systems that other people rely on to know their own equipment is working correctly. This is not a role where you run the same part over and over. You will own programs from blueprint to finished part, work across multi-axis lathes, mills, and Swiss-style machines, and help set the standard for how our machine shop operates.

• Program CNC machines:
  Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs in Mastercam for multi-axis lathes, mills, mill-turn, and Swiss-style machines.
• Validate before you cut:
  Prove out every program through simulation and dry runs so the first part off the machine is a good one.
• Read the print:
  Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to build precise tool paths and machining strategies.
• Set the method:
  Establish machining sequences and prepare operations planning sheets for prototype and production parts.
• Hold the standard:
  Ensure every program meets safety, quality, GD&T, and applicable ISO/AS requirements, and stays current with the latest engineering revisions.
• Support the floor:
  Troubleshoot machining issues, select tooling, speeds, and feeds, and train operators on the programs you build.

• Proven experience:
  
  5 or more years of CNC Mastercam programming experience in aerospace, defense, or high-precision manufacturing.
• Education & background:
  High School diploma or GED required. Associate degree, vocational certificate, or completed machining apprenticeship is a strong plus.
• Blueprint literacy:
  Ability to read mechanical drawings, assembly instructions, GD&T specifications, and bills of material with precision.
• Technical fluency:
  Strong proficiency in G-code, M-code, and CAD/CAM software (Mastercam and Solid Works).
• Material & tooling knowledge:
  Deep understanding of machine controls, cutting tooling selection, speeds/feeds, and machining behaviors across aluminum, steel, titanium, and plastics.
• Desirable skills: 7+ years of aerospace/defense programming, multi-axis (5-axis, mill-turn, Swiss) experience, or exposure to pneumatic pressure systems.

• Bias for Action:
  You do not wait to be handed a fully defined process. You take the print, work out the method, and get the program running.
• Intellectual Curiosity:
  You want to understand why a tolerance matters, not just what it is, so you catch a problem in the program before it shows up in the part.
• Clear Communication:
  When a print does not match the part or a machine is not holding tolerance, you say so immediately and work the problem with the team.
• Likes to Win: A clean simulation and a first-piece pass matter to you because these parts end up in systems people trust to be right.

Location: Livermore, CA 94550 (On-site)

Pay: $99,840 – $124,800/year

Job Type: Full-time

• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and eligible to receive any required U.S. Export Control authorization. Raptor Scientific is an equal opportunity employer.