Machinist (CNC & Manual)

Solcoa
Alameda, CA
On-site

Who this role is best for

Aimed at mid-level to senior machinists who can operate both CNC and manual equipment and thrive in a fast-paced, hardware-first environment.

Best fit for

  • Candidates with hands-on machining experience and a background in tight-tolerance work with specialty alloys
    — “Experience machining stainless and specialty alloys to tight tolerances”
  • Individuals who can independently manage shop operations and contribute to process optimization
    — “Design and build fixtures, jigs, and tooling that make the whole shop faster”
  • Professionals who can quickly adapt to changing requirements in a R&D and production hybrid setting
    — “Experience supporting R&D or prototype shops where requirements change daily”

Things to consider

  • The role may require same-day turnaround for parts, demanding high availability and responsiveness
    — “Turn around quick-turn prototype and repair work for R&D and plant operations—often same day.”
  • Candidates must be ready to start soon, which could limit the pool of applicants
    — “Availability to start soon.”

How to stand out

  • Highlight experience with both CNC and manual machining in your resume and interview responses
    — “Machine parts from prints and CAD models on CNC and manual mills and lathes”
  • Showcase your skill in programming CNC toolpaths using Fusion 360 or Mastercam
    — “Program, set up, and run CNC jobs (Fusion 360 / Mastercam or similar CAM)”
  • Demonstrate your ability to interpret GD&T and document inspection results thoroughly
    — “Ability to program CNC toolpaths (conversational or CAM) and to read and interpret GD&T on mechanical drawings”
  • Include experience with graphite or refractory metals if applicable to align with the company's niche
    — “Experience with graphite, refractory metals, or vacuum/furnace components”
Pace · Fast PacedCollaboration · LowAutonomy · HighDecision Impact · Individual

Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.

What success looks like

  • Machine parts from prints and CAD models
  • Design and build fixtures and tooling
  • Maintain the shop
Typical background
Machinist with CNC and manual machining experience

Skills & requirements

Required

CNC MachiningManual MachiningCad/cam ProgrammingGD&TTooling SelectionMachine Maintenance

Preferred

TIG WeldingCAD Proficiency

Stack & domain

CNCManual MillsManual LathesFusion 360MastercamTIG WeldingCADSolidworksGraphiteRefractory MetalsVacuum/furnace Components

About the role

Original posting from Solcoa via Ashby

MAKING THE METALS POWERING THE WORLD

Solcoa is building the next generation of American metalmaking, starting with rare earths — the metals of power and motion. We've developed a new chemistry that converts rare earth oxides into high-purity metals — the materials inside every EV, fighter jet, wind turbine, and data center — cleaner, cheaper, and faster than any conventional process. Now we're scaling it to thousands of tonnes of annual production.

THE ROLE — MACHINIST (CNC & MANUAL)

Own the machine shop. You'll turn prints and sketches from our engineers into finished parts—same-day when it matters—machining components for reactors, furnaces, fixtures, and prototype hardware that goes straight onto the plant floor. You'll set the standard for precision, throughput, and shop discipline as we scale from pilot plant to production.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Machine parts from prints and CAD models on CNC and manual mills and lathes—stainless, carbon steel, aluminum, copper, graphite, and specialty alloys.
  • Program, set up, and run CNC jobs (Fusion 360 / Mastercam or similar CAM); select tooling, speeds, and feeds for one-offs and small batches.
  • Hold tight tolerances and verify dimensions with calipers, micrometers, gauges, and indicators; document inspection results.
  • Turn around quick-turn prototype and repair work for R&D and plant operations—often same day.
  • Design and build fixtures, jigs, and tooling that make the whole shop faster.
  • Work with engineers on design-for-manufacturability; mark up drawings and feed back improvements.
  • Maintain the shop: machine upkeep, tooling inventory, organization, and safety practices for hot work and rotating equipment.

WHAT YOU BRING

REQUIRED

  • 3+ years machining experience with proven skill on both CNC and manual mills and lathes.
  • Ability to program CNC toolpaths (conversational or CAM) and to read and interpret GD&T on mechanical drawings.
  • Experience machining stainless and specialty alloys to tight tolerances.
  • Disciplined, reliable execution—on spec, on time, with excellent documentation.
  • Comfort working independently in a fast-paced, hardware-first environment.
  • Availability to start soon.

PREFERRED

  • Experience supporting R&D or prototype shops where requirements change daily.
  • TIG welding and general fabrication ability.
  • Experience with graphite, refractory metals, or vacuum/furnace components.
  • CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) for simple part and fixture design.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Competitive base salary
  • Equity (stock options)
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Company-provided lunch daily
  • Visa sponsorship available if needed

Source: Solcoa careers (Ashby)

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