Machine Shop Engineer

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.

EBAD is seeking a highly skilled Machine Shop Engineer to join our team in Moorpark, CA. This senior-level role combines advanced CNC machining expertise with engineering-driven responsibilities in equipment reliability, repair, and process optimization. The position is critical to ensuring precision machining capability, machine uptime, and continuous improvement across the shop.

The Machine Shop Engineer will be a master of CNC setup and machining processes, while also acting as a technical lead for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining CNC and manual equipment. Typical work includes machining complex aerospace components under 12" in size, with lot sizes ranging from prototype to 500 pieces.

• Serve as the master setup authority, leading complex CNC setups, including fixturing, tooling design, and program validation.
• Engineer machining strategies by interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, and routers.
• Optimize feeds, speeds, and work holding methods; design custom fixtures when required.
• Validate first-piece setups and ensure inspection readiness.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and CNC program issues; implement corrective actions.
• Act as the engineering lead for machine reliability, including:
  • Diagnosing and correcting issues across mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
  • Replacing or aligning spindles, bearings, pumps, motors, and other key components.
  • Performing calibration and leveling to restore machine accuracy.
  • Coordinating major rebuilds or OEM service support when necessary.
• Lead and mentor machinists in setup methods, machining strategies, and preventive maintenance.
• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and production standards.
• Maintain accurate maintenance and engineering documentation and recommend upgrades or equipment replacement.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in machining processes, tooling, and machine performance.

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field; equivalent combination of education and extensive hands‑on experience may be considered.
• Minimum 5 years' experience operating and troubleshooting mills and lathes.
• Proven track record of CNC machine repair, maintenance, and calibration across mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and CNC control systems.
• Strong problem‑solving and root cause analysis skills in both machining and machine reliability.
• Working knowledge of ESPRIT programming software preferred.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, and precision inspection methods.
• Effective communicator with ability to document technical findings and mentor shop personnel.
• Prior leadership or team mentoring experience strongly preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or associate degree in machining/manufacturing technology is a plus.
• Must meet all ITAR and BATFE background requirements.

Salary Range: $115,000 - $140,000 per year. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

The Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.