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Lead CNC Machinist

Torrance, California

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are: 
Space Kinetic is a cleared, venture-backed startup focused on addressing urgent national security priorities. Our goal is to deliver a suite of asymmetric capabilities for space superiority and missile defense leveraging our proprietary electromechanical deployment system, which enables the rapid deployment of low-cost payloads through space without firing a thruster. Space Kinetic is currently assembling its TRL-5 prototype. Our goal is to leverage this platform to provide the United States with a new tool for securing the space domain & catalyzing the emerging space economy. 

What You’ll Do: 
The CNC Machinist will manufacture and assemble parts critical for the rapid prototyping of Space Kinetic’s core technology, intent is to be able to iterate quickly through different designs, and this role will directly support the engineering team as we head towards flight. 

You will work quickly to assimilate into the Space Kinetic culture, understanding our prototyping needs, and start generating CAM packages for manufacturing. You'll begin by utilizing our current CNC Mills and lathes to produce essential components, aiming to contribute to the next prototype iteration. 

The next phase you will identify and document the tooling and machines essential for enhancing Space Kinetic's prototyping capabilities. Initiate collaborations with vendors for parts manufacturing outside our in-house capacity, including specialized coatings and modifications. Assemble the newest iteration of our core technology with the SK Engineering team. 

Finally, you will play a pivotal role in building a prototype poised for flight testing, refining and iterating designs to perfection. Your expertise will directly impact the speed and quality of our prototyping efforts, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space today. 

What It Takes: 

  • Experience: Minimum 10 years as a Machinist, proficient in burning chips and CAM programming.
  • CNC Expertise: Extensive experience with 3- and 5-axis CNC mills and Mill-Turn lathes (bonus).
  • Setup Proficiency: Skilled in creating setups for complex parts while maintaining tight tolerances.
  • Precision Milling: Proven ability to hold default tolerances of ±0.001” and occasionally ±0.0002”.
  • Leadership: Experience hiring, training, and mentoring machinists.
  • Documentation: Prior experience using ISO-compliant documentation.
  • Software Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
  • Project Delivery: Consistent record of meeting project milestones and driving team success.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to work independently.
  • Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a collaborative team-oriented approach.
  • Core Values: Commitment to integrity, honesty, and high standards for quality and precision.
  • Adaptability: Flexible, open to feedback, and receptive to innovative ideas.
  • Compliance: Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident to meet U.S. Government export regulations.
  • Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Government Security Clearance.

Where You’ll Be: 

  • The position is onsite at our headquarters in Torrance, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to ~20% of the year). 

What We Offer:  

  • Competitive Base Salary + Equity-Based Compensation
  • Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure
  • Health and Wellness Stipend
  • Commuter Benefits

ITAR Requirements:  
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant 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. Learn more about ITAR here 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 
Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. 

The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data.  Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.  

Pay Range

$90,000 - $125,000 USD

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