CNC Programmer and Machinist Job Los Angeles area,California USA,Manufacturing / Production

Role

Summary:

Auriga is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer and Machinist to program, set up, and run the precision hardware behind our electromagnetic launch systems. This is a hands‑on, dual role. You will take parts from a 3D model through CAM programming, work holding and setup, first article, and production, and you will be at the machine running them. Our work is prototype‑heavy and changes quickly, so you will see a wide variety of parts and materials in small quantities rather than long production runs.

You will work directly with design and manufacturing engineering to improve producibility before a part ever hits the floor. The ideal candidate is a strong machinist who programs well, takes ownership of the shop, and thrives in a fast‑paced start‑up environment. This role is based onsite at our Garden Grove, CA facility.

Key Responsibilities:
Programming and Setup

Create, verify, and optimize CNC programs and toolpaths from 3D CAD models and drawings using CAM software.
Select cutting tools, speeds and feeds, stepover and depth of cut, and machining strategies appropriate to the material, feature, and tolerance.
Design and specify work holding, fixtures, and soft jaws, and plan operation sequencing and datum strategy to hold tolerance across setups.
Simulate and verify programs before cutting to prevent crashes, gouges, and collisions.
Edit and troubleshoot G-code at the machine, and maintain post processors, tool libraries, and program revision control.
Build and maintain a library of proven programs, setup sheets, and tooling standards so jobs can be repeated reliably.

Machining and Operation

Set up and operate CNC mills and lathes, including tool setting, work offsets, probing where available, and first part run‑off.
Set up and operate manual machines such as mills, lathes, drill presses, saws, and grinders as needed to support the build.
Machine parts in a range of materials including aluminum, stainless steel, copper alloys, plastics, and harder alloys such as titanium as required.
Hold tight tolerances and specified surface finishes, and adjust offsets and process to keep parts in spec.
Deburr, clean, and finish parts, and prepare them for inspection, assembly, or outside processing.
Perform routine machine maintenance, monitor tool wear and machine condition, and report issues before they become downtime.

Quality, Documentation, and Collaboration

Interpret engineering drawings, models, and GD&T, and confirm that a part can be made as drawn before cutting.
Inspect and measure parts using calipers, micrometers, height gages, indicators, gage pins, and thread gages, and support first article inspection.
Document work on travelers and setup sheets, and maintain traceability for material and process.
Partner with design and manufacturing engineering on design for manufacturability, tolerancing, and cost and lead time reduction, and give feedback early.
Support quoting and planning by estimating machining time, tooling needs, and material requirements.
Keep the shop clean, organized, and safe, follow all safety and PPE requirements, and help mentor junior machinists as the team grows.

Basic Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED.
5+ years of hands‑on CNC machining experience, including both programming and setup and operation.
Proficiency with a CAM package such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidCAM, HSMWorks, Esprit, GibbsCAM, or NX CAM, and the ability to learn ours.
Able to read, edit, and troubleshoot G-code and M-code at the control.
Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T.
Experience selecting tooling, speeds and feeds, and work holding for a range of materials.
Proficiency with precision measuring and inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers,…