CNC Mill-Turn Machinist/Programmer

CNC Mill-Turn Machinist / Programmer

2nd shift position: 7am - 5pm (10-hour shift)

Summary

Vaya Space is a privately owned space and defense company headquartered on Florida’s Space Coast. We are advancing patented vortex-hybrid engine technology to deliver propulsion systems that meet the highest standards of safety, affordability, and sustainability. In the commercial market, our Dauntless launch vehicle provides reliable and cost-effective access to orbit. In defense, our hybrid propulsion systems support next-generation tactical, hypersonic, and missile defense applications.

The CNC Mill-Turn Machinist / Programmer is responsible for independently setting up, programming, and operating CNC Mill-Turn machines to produce precision-machined components, primarily for one-off and small batch aerospace hardware. This role owns machining processes from print review through first-article approval and continuous improvement.

This position requires advanced multi-axis machining capability, hands-on CNC programming experience, and the ability to make real-time process decisions in a fast-paced, high-mix job-shop environment. The ideal candidate is a self-sufficient machinist who can translate engineering intent into efficient, repeatable manufacturing solutions.

We are a fast-paced, mission-driven team tackling some of the hardest problems in aerospace. Success at Vaya requires personal leadership, strong technical skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Every team member contributes across disciplines, stepping up where needed to drive innovation forward. If you want to make an impact and help shape the future of space and defense, Vaya Space is the place to do it.

Travel Required

Up to 10%

Required Security Clearance

None (ITAR Eligible)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up, program, and operate CNC Mill-Turn machines, including live tooling and sub-spindle operations.
• Develop, modify, and optimize CNC programs using G-code and/or CAM software.
• Review engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine machining strategy.
• Own first-article execution includes proving out programs and validating dimensions.
• Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and process issues to reduce scrap and cycle time.
• Apply GD&T knowledge to interpret tolerances and adjust machining strategies.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and manufacturing leadership.
• Document setups, programs, and standard machining practices.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using precision measurement equipment.
• Maintain accountability for part quality, machine uptime, and schedule adherence.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain a clean and safety-compliant work environment.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of CNC lathe or mill-turn machining experience in a high-mix, low-volume environment.
• Demonstrated experience programming CNC lathes or mill-turn machines.
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling, and feeds/speeds optimization.
• Proficiency reading and applying complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Ability to independently set up jobs from print to first-article approval.
• Experience making real-time program edits and process improvements.
• To comply with U.S. export regulations, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and the Export Administration Regulations you must (a) be a “U.S. Person” as defined under those regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents of the U.S., and protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (b) otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce, as appropriate.

Preferred Skills and Education

• Experience machining aerospace or tight-tolerance components.
• Familiarity with CAM software such as CAMWorks, Gibbs CAM.
• Experience with multi-axis mill-turn platforms and advanced work holding.
• Attention to detail.