CNC Machinist Setup & Operation – LATHE

Position Details:

Location: Los Angeles (Hawthorne), CA

Employment Type: Full-time

Department: Starlight Solar

The Mission

At Starpath Robotics, we’re shaping the future of robotics through precision engineering and bold ideas. Our work thrives on the edge of what’s possible — and we’re looking for people who want to push those boundaries with us. We value craftsmanship, speed, and ownership. If you’re passionate about creating high-precision components that directly fuels the next-generation in space, you’ll fit right in.

CNC Machinist Setup & Operation – LATHE

We’re hiring a CNC Machinist with experience in 2-axis or multi-axis CNC turning. This role requires quality experience in CNC machining, setups, problem-solving at the machine and program (G-Code) level, and the ability to take ownership from design handoff through finished part.

Responsibilities:

Setup and operate CNC lathes (2-axis) to support precision aerospace robotics manufacturing.

Editing, and optimizing programs in OKUMA G-code.

Interpret engineering drawings, CAD/CAM models, and GD&T requirements to produce efficient machining strategies.

Perform setups and operate CNC lathe machines. Cutting soft jaws, changing to collet nose, pie-jaws, gathering tooling, performing offsets, first article parts, etc.

Ability to use inspection equipment to inspect parts after each operation.

Maintain records of mark-ups on prints, save programs, setup sheets, and tool lists.

Select and optimize tooling, adjusting speeds/feeds for efficiency and tool life.

Saw cut material, deburr parts, use grinders, pneumatic tools and be a general shop hand.

Maintain a clean work environment/shop space.

Take ownership of the machine shop, be an asset in troubleshooting, and optimization.

Mentor teammates and share best practices to raise the bar across the team.

Pitch in beyond machining when needed — including assisting with assembly of our products — to ensure team success.

Help with necessary maintenance, cleanliness, up-keep and repairs of machinery to the best of your ability.

Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.

2-5 years of CNC machining experience.

Above average knowledge of 2-axis CNC turning, with exposure to multi-axis machining (encouraged).

Proficiency in OKUMA OSP controls & (G-code) AND/OR WILLINGNESS TO LEARN. Such as OKAUMA GENOS L250 II.

Preferred Qualifications:

5+ years of CNC machining experience.

Expertise CNC turning – boring, grooving, threading, drilling – utilizing the chuck with hard-jaws, soft-jaws, collets, and/or on-centers turning.

Strong background in complex turning contours, and aerospace style applications.

Experience optimizing processes for productivity, quality, and repeatability.

Familiarity with feeds/speeds/tooling types for different material types; 6061/7075 ALM, 300/400 series stainless steel, carbon steels, plastics, & similar.

Experience mentoring others and leading shop projects.

Additional Requirements:

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.

Frequent standing, bending, grasping, pulling, and other shop-floor activities required.

Compensation & Benefits for Production Roles:

Level 1: $25.00 – $32.00/hour

Level 2: $32.00 – $40.00/hour

Actual level and pay determined based on skills, experience, and interview performance.

OVERTIME PAY: Offered during peak build cycles.

EAR Requirements:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, you must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Opportunity:

Starpath is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Benefits:

At Starpath Robotics, base pay is just one part of your total rewards package. We also offer:

Generous benefits including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans.

Paid time off, holidays, and flexible policies to support balance.

Professional growth opportunities through training and development.

The chance to own high-impact work that directly shapes the future of robotics & space!

A collaborative, mission-driven culture where craftsmanship and innovation are celebrated.