CNC Operator

CNC Operator

Seal Beach

Structures

In office

Full-time

At Astro Forge, our mission is to make space resources accessible on Earth. We mine asteroids to extract valuable minerals in space at a lower cost and smaller carbon footprint than current terrestrial mining methods. We offer a unique opportunity to join an exciting team looking to expand humanity’s capabilities in space.

As a CNC Operator at Astro Forge, you’ll set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines to manufacture high-precision aerospace components that support our mission of building the future of space resource extraction. As part of a 70+ person startup, you’ll wear more than one hat; this role blends hands-on machining with fabrication, quality inspection, and continuous process improvement, all in a fast-paced environment where no one is pigeonholed into a single task.

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines (including 3-axis or 5-axis equipment) and conventional machine tools to fabricate metallic and nonmetallic aerospace components.
• Work from blueprints, sketches, CAD/CAM files, and technical drawings to determine dimensions, tolerances, sequence of operations, and setup requirements.
• Work with a range of materials, including aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and carbon composites, ensuring exceptional surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
• Select, align, and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, and work pieces; calculate and adjust machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, and depth/angle of cut.
• Start and monitor machine operation to detect malfunctions, unusual sound/vibration, or out-of-tolerance conditions, adjusting controls as needed.
• Conduct in-process inspections and first article verifications using precision measurement instruments (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, comparators, CMMs).
• Test and verify conformance of finished work pieces to specifications; remove and replace dull cutting tools as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining issues, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Document production data, inspection results, and process notes in our production tracking systems to support knowledge transfer and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with engineering and fabrication teams to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback on complex part geometries.
• Maintain and improve the workshop environment, ensuring equipment is well-maintained and processes are documented.

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate (vocational or technical training in machining preferred).
• Proven experience as a CNC machine operator, with a focus on aerospace or high-precision components.
• Basic understanding of CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, HyperMILL, or Fusion 360) and 3D CAD tools (e.g., Solid Works, Siemens NX).
• Skilled in operating CNC machinery, tooling, and precision measurement instruments.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and mechanical documents.
• Mechanical aptitude, strong attention to detail, and a results-driven approach.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work onsite in Seal Beach, CA.
• Availability to work evening/overnight shifts, such as 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, or weekend shifts on a regular or rotating basis.

• Experience with 3-axis or 5-axis CNC machining and hands-on work with exotic materials such as titanium, Inconel, and carbon fiber composites.
• Experience designing and fabricating fixturing and work-holding solutions.
• Fabrication experience, including hand tools, saws, and welding (GTAW/GMAW with aerospace experience).
• Experience with non-destructive testing tools such as X-ray or eddy current inspection methods.
• Familiarity with GD&T, blueprint…