Senior CNC 5-Axis Mill Machinist, Prototype Shop

About This Role

Varda is seeking a Senior 5-axis CNC Mill Machinist to anchor our prototyping capabilities. In this role, you will leverage extensive Mastercam expertise and advanced 5-axis CNC mill experience to program, set up, and execute complex, one-off aerospace components. Beyond machining mastery, you will serve as a vital cross-functional partner, collaborating digitally and interpersonally with all teams to drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) in an environment where speed and flexibility are paramount.

As a part of the captive prototype machine shop embedded directly within this high-cadence aerospace environment, you’re a critical moving part of this internal engine that addresses the complex, high-urgency work that most job shops simply cannot. We thrive on the momentum of real hardware coming back from flight. The requirement is not just machine parts. As a team we are looking forward to work together. Building an efficient prototype environment where we lean into each other's strengths and cross-train as opportunities arise.

Responsibilities

Advanced Machining & 5-Axis Programming

• Use Mastercam to program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC equipment, with a heavy emphasis on 5-axis CNC mills and complex geometries.
• Fabricate challenging prototype and flight-support components from diverse aerospace materials under tight, rapidly evolving deadlines.
• Own the manufacturing process from CAM programming through fixturing, tool selection, optimization, on-machine probing, and final inspection/verification.

Captive Shop Agility & Rapid-Response Prototyping

• Mindset: A hands-on builder's mentality who embraces continuous improvement and loves seeing physical hardware come to life, test, and fly.
• Handle high-priority, complex work that commercial vendors cannot turn around or execute, acting as the critical link between design concept and physical hardware.
• Adapt seamlessly when priorities change, managing shifting project scopes without sacrificing part integrity or precision.
• Maintain rigorous quality standards through in-process inspection and close collaboration with quality assurance.

Design for Manufacturability (DFM) & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Strong knowledge of GD&T, blueprint interpretation and inspection allowing you to partner with any team to offer proactive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback, optimizing part designs for efficiency, strength, and manufacturability.
• Work collaboratively and digitally with engineers and peers of all backgrounds and personalities, ensuring transparent communication through digital work orders, CAD/CAM notes, and direct dialogue.

Team Contribution & Cross-Training Culture

• Actively contributes to building a cohesive, high-performing shop floor by sharing your expertise, mentoring peers, and troubleshooting setups collaboratively.
• Embrace a cross-training mindset—sharing your specialized 5-axis and Mastercam knowledge while stepping outside your comfort zone to learn other machines and processes as shop needs evolve.

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on Manual and CNC machining experience within a fast-paced prototype, aerospace, R&D, or advanced manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in Mastercam programming for complex multi-axis milling.
• Deep, hands-on operational and programming background with 5-axis CNC mills and part fixturing you’ve designed to hold in a free state along with zero point fixturing.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively and digitally with all personalities. Comfortable thriving in an environment where priorities change quickly.
• U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency to comply with ITAR regulations.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• 10+ years of hands-on experience in manual and CNC machining, including advanced 5-axis operations.
• Experience designing and fabricating complex fixturing and work-holding solutions.
• Advanced knowledge of multi-tasking machine operations, such as mill-turns and live-tool lathes.
• Mastery in troubleshooting machining challenges and implementing process improvements.
• Familiarity with production tracking tools (e.g., Jira) and continuous improvement methodologies.

Pay Range

• Salary Range: $46.75/hr - $63.25/hr
• This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA
• Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance
• You will be eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards