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CNC Programmer

Torrance, California, United States

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable—unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Team 

As part of the Manufacturing organization, the Machine Shop manufactures precision components that meet exacting engineering and quality standards. The team supports rapid development, prototyping, and production through advanced machining capabilities. 

The Role 

Valar Atomics is looking for a CNC Programmer to develop and optimize CNC programs for precision components used in our modular nuclear reactor systems. You will translate engineering drawings and CAD models into efficient, repeatable toolpaths, working closely with machinists and engineering to hit tight tolerances on a wide range of materials. This role has high ownership over process and directly shapes how our shop turns designs into hardware.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Develop CNC programs for mills and lathes using CAM software (ESPRIT EDGE and/or Fusion 360).
  • Translate CAD models and engineering drawings into efficient, repeatable toolpaths and setups.
  • Select appropriate tooling, feeds, speeds, and work-holding strategies for a range of materials including stainless steel, nickel alloy and Graphite.
  • Partner with machinists to debug and refine programs at the machine; troubleshoot cycle time and quality issues.
  • Provide design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback to engineering during part design.
  • Maintain and organize program libraries, post-processors, and documentation.
  • Support first-article inspection and process validation for new parts.

Basic Qualifications  

  • 5+ years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing, aerospace, or precision machining environment.
  • Proficiency with CAM software (ESPRIT EDGE, Fusion 360, or similar) for mills and/or lathes.
  • Strong ability to read and work from complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and CAD models.
  • Solid understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, and material properties.
  • Experience programming for tight-tolerance parts (ASME Y14.5, aerospace or nuclear-grade specs preferred).
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup manufacturing environment with evolving processes.
  • Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with machinists and engineering.

Preferred Skills and Experience  

  • 5-axis programming experience.
  • Experience setting up In-Machine Probing to verify parts without removing parts
  • Experience with Automation and lights out programming
  • Experience programming Graphite Material or similar abrasive material
  • Hands-on machining experience (able to run/debug programs at the machine).
  • Experience standing up CNC programs and processes for a new manufacturing line.

What We Offer  

  • Competitive base salary 
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
  • Comprehensive medical benefits 
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Salary

$40 - $60 USD

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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.

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