Job Application for CNC Machinist - 5 Axis 1st shift, Site 2 at AST SpaceMobile

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced 5-Axis CNC Machinist to support the manufacturing of high-precision aerospace hardware and tooling. This role is responsible for the setup, operation, troubleshooting, and optimization of advanced 5-axis CNC machining centers. The successful candidate will have extensive experience machining complex geometries, working with tight tolerances, and supporting continuous process improvements in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and troubleshoot 5-axis CNC machining centers.
Manufacture complex aerospace components requiring simultaneous multi-axis machining.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, and GD&T requirements.
Select and install tooling, fixtures, and machine accessories.
Verify machine setups and perform first-article inspections.
Adjust machine offsets and edit CNC programs as required.
Optimize machining processes to improve quality, efficiency, and cycle times.
Inspect finished components using precision measuring instruments.
Troubleshoot dimensional and machining issues and implement corrective actions.
Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to improve manufacturing processes.
Mentor and assist junior machinists when needed.
Perform preventative maintenance and maintain machine performance standards.
Maintain compliance with safety, quality, and production requirements.

Qualifications

Education:

High School Diploma or GED required.
Machining certification, technical degree, or equivalent trade school training preferred.

Experience:

Minimum 2 years of CNC machining experience.
Minimum 2 years of experience operating and setting up 5-axis CNC machining centers.
Experience machining complex aerospace or precision-manufactured components.

Preferred Qualifications:

Aerospace, defense, or satellite manufacturing experience.
Experience with CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, NX, or similar platforms.
Advanced understanding of GD&T principles.
Experience machining aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and exotic materials.
Experience supporting process improvements and production optimization initiatives.

Soft Skills:

Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities.
Excellent attention to detail.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively.
Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Technology Stack:

5-Axis CNC Machining Centers
Haas or Fanuc CNC Controls
CAM Software (Mastercam, NX, Fusion 360)
Precision Measuring Equipment
ERP/MRP Manufacturing Systems
Microsoft Office Suite

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions.
Ability to safely operate and work around manufacturing equipment.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Create a Job Alert

Interested in building your career at AST SpaceMobile? Get future opportunities sent straight to your email.

First Name

Last Name

Preferred First Name

Country

Phone

Location (City)

Resume/CV*

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

Cover Letter

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

School

Select...

LinkedIn Profile

Website

Are you at least 18 years of age?

Select...

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer?

Select...

Will you now or in the future require employment visa sponsorship?

Select...

Do you meet the language requirements for this position (fluent in written and verbal English)?

Select...

Current City, State

This position is based on-site in Midland, TX. Are you able and willing to work in Midland, TX.

Select...

What are your salary expectations?

Earliest Start Date

How did you hear about the position?

If you were referred by an AST employee, please enter their AST email.

Do you have at least 2 years of hands-on experience operating 5 -axis CNC machines in a manufacturing environment?

Select...

Have you independently set up and operated a 5-axis CNC machine, including tooling, offsets, and work holding?

Select...

Which of the following have you personally performed on a 5-axis CNC machine? (Select all that apply) *

Loaded and verified CNC programs

Adjusted feeds, speeds, and tool paths

Interpreted GD&T and engineering drawings

Performed first article or in-process inspections

Troubleshot machining issues (chatter, tool wear, offsets)

None of the above

Are you willing to work as a hands-on working machinist responsible for helping get parts processed, production flowing, and transitioned successfully to machine operators?

Select...

I certify that the facts contained in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledge and I understand that the false statements or deliberate omissions on this application may be grounds for disqualification from employment.

Select...

Voluntary Self-Identification

For government reporting purposes, we ask candidates to respond to the below self-identification survey. Completion of the form is entirely voluntary. Whatever your decision, it will not be considered in the hiring process or thereafter. Any information that you do provide will be recorded and maintained in a confidential file.

As set forth in AST SpaceMobile’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law.

Gender

Select...

Are you Hispanic/Latino?

Select...

Race & Ethnicity Definitions

If you believe you belong to any of the categories of protected veterans listed below, please indicate by making the appropriate selection. As a government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA), we request this information in order to measure the effectiveness of the outreach and positive recruitment efforts we undertake pursuant to VEVRAA. Classification of protected categories is as follows:

A "disabled veteran" is one of the following: a veteran of the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service who is entitled to compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; or a person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.

A "recently separated veteran" means any veteran during the three-year period beginning on the date of such veteran's discharge or release from active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval, or air service.

An "active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran" means a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service during a war, or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized under the laws administered by the Department of Defense.

An "Armed forces service medal veteran" means a veteran who, while serving on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded pursuant to Executive Order 12985.

Veteran Status

Select...

CNC Machinist - 5 Axis 1st shift, Site 2

Position Overview

Key Responsibilities

Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Preferred Qualifications:

Soft Skills:

Technology Stack:

Physical Requirements

Apply for this job

Voluntary Self-Identification