Geared toward candidates with R&D machining experience and a background in aerospace manufacturing, comfortable with 5-axis programming and machine shop build-outs in Long Beach, CA.
Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.
Original posting from True Anomaly via Greenhouse
Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.
OUR MISSION
True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.
OUR VALUES
Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.
BENEFITS & PERKS*
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, with HSA/HRA options
Generous time off: Flexible Time Off (FTO) for exempt employees, accrued PTO of up to 25 days for non-exempt employees, plus 12 paid holidays; Parental Leave; Sick Leave
Fuel for your day: Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks for in-office employees
And more: 401(k) retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, and Dog Fridays
Equity participation: Equity is included as part of our total compensation package, giving you an opportunity to share in the company’s success.
*Do not apply to fixed term and temporary roles
YOUR MISSION
As a CNC Machinist in Long Beach, you will be foundational to how we build hardware that operates in the most contested environment humanity has ever faced — space. In this role, you will own standing up and expanding our machine shop, selecting tooling, and establishing the processes and standards that will define our machining culture. You will work shoulder-to-shoulder with our engineering team to push the boundaries of what's manufacturable, with a heavy emphasis on R&D prototyping and rapid iteration. If you're someone who thrives in the earliest stages of building something consequential, this is your seat.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Machining & Fabrication: Set up, program, and operate 5-axis CNC mills, lathes, and other CNC machines to produce precision aerospace components from engineering drawings and models in a fast-paced R&D environment.
CAM Programming: Develop and optimize toolpaths using Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill for complex multi-axis parts. Own the full programming workflow from model import to proven first article.
R&D Prototyping: Partner directly with engineers to rapidly iterate on prototype hardware — from concept to hardware, bringing a machinist's eye to early-stage designs and help engineering understand what's possible and what's not.
Machine Shop Build-Out: Play a lead role in laying out and standing up the machine shop — specifying and purchasing machines, tooling, fixturing, metrology equipment, and consumables to support current and future production needs.
DFM Collaboration: Provide deep design-for-manufacturability input on new parts and assemblies. Engage early in the design cycle to reduce cost, lead time, and complexity without sacrificing performance.
Quality & Standards: Maintain tight tolerances and impeccable workmanship standards. Inspect own work using metrology tools (calipers, micrometers, CMM, etc.) and ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with structures, propulsion, avionics, and test teams to ensure machined components integrate cleanly into the broader vehicle architecture.
QUALIFICATIONS
CNC machining experience, with demonstrated proficiency in 5-axis milling and complex multi-axis programming
Strong CAM experience in Mastercam, Esprit, or HyperMill — you write your own programs and know why each toolpath decision matters
Proven track record in an R&D or prototype-heavy environment where no two parts are the same
Proficiency reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D CAD models (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)
Experience with a broad range of materials including aluminum alloys, titanium, stainless steel, and advanced composites
Strong metrology skills and familiarity with inspection equipment and methods
Ability to work autonomously and make sound decisions with minimal supervision
Strong written and verbal communication skills — you can clearly articulate a DFM concern or a tooling recommendation to an engineer who has never touched a machine
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Experience in aerospace, defense, or space hardware manufacturing
Prior involvement in machine shop build-outs, equipment procurement, or facility stand-up
Familiarity with lean manufacturing and 5S principles
Experience with turning, EDM, surface grinding, or other complementary processes
Exposure to cleanroom protocols, FOD/ESD awareness, and aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR)
Background in fixture design and development for complex geometries
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Machinist I : $26.50-$36/hr
Machinist II: $31.50-$41.50/hr
Machinist III: $36-$50.50/hr
Senior Machinist: $43.50-$60/hr
Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Work Location—Successful candidates will be located near Long Beach, CA.
Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.
This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us know.
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