Principal Machinist
Astrolab
Software Engineering
hawthorne, ca, usa
USD 45-67 / hour
Posted on Jul 18, 2025
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
The Principal Machinist is a senior-level technical expert responsible for programming, setting up, and operating a variety of machine tools to produce precision components to exacting specifications. This role serves as a subject matter expert in machining operations, driving improvements in quality, efficiency, and innovation. The Principal Machinist will support complex prototype and production work, mentor junior machinists, and collaborate with engineering and design teams to ensure manufacturability and excellence in part production.
The Principal Machinist is a senior-level technical expert responsible for programming, setting up, and operating a variety of machine tools to produce precision components to exacting specifications. This role serves as a subject matter expert in machining operations, driving improvements in quality, efficiency, and innovation. The Principal Machinist will support complex prototype and production work, mentor junior machinists, and collaborate with engineering and design teams to ensure manufacturability and excellence in part production.
- Department
- Production & Test
- Employment Type
- Full Time
- Location
- Hawthorne, California
- Workplace type
- Onsite
- Compensation
- $45.00 - $67.00 / hour
What you'll do:
- Program, set up, and operate manual and CNC equipment (mills, lathes, grinders, EDMs, etc.) to produce complex components
- Interpret detailed engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to plan machining operations
- Lead prototyping efforts and support development programs requiring tight tolerances and innovative machining techniques
- Work closely with design and manufacturing engineers to provide feedback on part manufacturability and optimize designs for machining
- Select and apply proper tooling, speeds, feeds, and fixtures for various materials and geometry
- Maintain tight tolerances and surface finishes required for aerospace, automotive, medical, or similar precision industries
- Conduct in-process inspections using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, CMMs, etc.)
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives in machining processes, equipment utilization, and workflow efficiency
- Train and mentor junior machinists and technicians to improve skills, safety, and productivity
- Ensure shop safety, cleanliness, and machine maintenance standards are upheld.
What you'll bring:
- 10+ years of hands-on machining experience in a precision manufacturing environment
- Expertise in CNC programming (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360, Siemens NX, or equivalent)
- Deep understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
- Strong knowledge of materials (aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, plastics, etc.)
- Demonstrated ability to machine complex parts to tight tolerances
- Proven experience in a prototyping or R&D machining environment
- Excellent problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude
Preferred:
- Experience with 5-axis machining and multi-axis turning centers
- Familiarity with additive manufacturing, post-processing, or hybrid manufacturing methods
- Formal apprenticeship, trade certification, or technical degree in Machining or Manufacturing Technology
Work Environment:
- Hands-on shop floor environment with exposure to machine noise, lubricants, and occasional lifting
- May require use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection
What We Offer:
- Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
- Ownership in the company
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with matching
- Flexible time off and parental leave
- On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches
- Flexible work environment
About Astrolab
Having a strong, inclusive, and inspired team is essential to accomplishing our bold mission. Employees are our biggest asset, and we are deeply committed to them and our values. At Astrolab we…
Demonstrate and inspire trust. Interactions are direct, honest, and respectful. We are fair and transparent with what we do and why.
Thrive in balance. Balance gives us perspective and keeps us motivated and inspired. We commit to rewarding work and a fulfilling personal life.
Seek diverse perspectives. We ask questions, engage in productive debate and offer alternatives to ensure our solutions and products are robust and a reflection of our collective best.
Move with purpose. Quality and reliability are accomplished through efficient ideation and iteration. We act with a sense of urgency and deliver what we promise, always with the big picture in mind.
Make an impact. We intentionally move our community and industry into the future through our work, practices, and actions.
Our Hiring Process
Stage 1:
Application Review
Stage 2:
Recruiter Phone Interview
Stage 3:
Video Interviews
Stage 4:
On-site Interview
Astrolab is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity, parental or pregnancy status, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to careers@astrolab.space. We strive to remove unconscious and unnecessary barriers to build the best team. While we’ve outlined what an ideal candidate could look like, we know that you may bring something unanticipated and essential to the team. If you’re reading this and can see yourself contributing, please register below.
