CNC Programmer / Machinist

Los Angeles, CA5+ years

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 passengers, an electric zero-emission range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Heart is targeting type certification of the ES-30 by the end of the decade.

Your mission

We are building hybrid-electric aircrafts and are establishing an in-house machine shop to support prototype, tooling, and early production efforts. We are seeking a CNC Programmer/Machinist who will be the first hire in the machine shop. You will have an opportunity to play a key role in shaping machining processes, standards, and culture.

This is a hands-on role requiring deep experience machining large aluminum structural components, developing robust processes, and transitioning work from prototype through low-rate production. The ideal candidate brings strong technical judgment, takes pride in craftsmanship, and operates with an unwavering commitment to safety and equipment care.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Program, set up, and operate CNC machines for prototype, tooling, and low-rate production components
Machine components of various materials (Alum, SS, Steels, Ti) of varying heat treatments. Main categories include large aluminum structural parts, battery and electrical housing development components, and miscellaneous test tooling components.
Develop CNC programs using Autodesk Fusion (CAM)
Operate and support:
Haas VF-4 3-axis mills
Haas UMC-750 5-axis mills
Design and build fixtures and work holding, and perform complete machine setups.
Complete machining operations through first article inspection.
Develop tool lists and machining strategies that prioritize safety, accuracy, surface quality, and cost effectiveness
Utilize Renishaw probing systems (tool setter and part probe) for setup, in-process verification, and inspection
Support manual mill and lathe work for quick-turn prototype parts, tooling, and fixturing.
Perform saw operations to prepare raw material as required and perform final deburr including edge-breaks, polish and thread work as required.
Apply strong understanding of GD&T, datum structures, and inspection methods to ensure parts meet engineering intent
Perform first-article inspections and support quality documentation
Work closely with manufacturing and design engineers to influence DFM and process development
Help establish shop best practices, standard work, and workflows as the shop grows

Safety, Organization & Culture

Maintain an extremely high standard of safety — safety is the number one priority
Take ownership of equipment care, preventive maintenance, and proper machine use
Keep tooling, fixtures, and work areas organized and clearly labeled
Support and help build a 5S / Lean manufacturing environment
Demonstrate a proactive, can-do attitude and willingness to step in where needed

Skills & Requirements:

You'll Bring These Qualifications for CNC Programmer/Machinist

5+ years of experience as a CNC Programmer/Machinist in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing
Significant experience machining large aluminum structural components
Strong proficiency with Autodesk Fusion CAM
High level of skill operating Haas VF-series 3-axis and Haas 5-axis mills
Hands-on experience with Renishaw tool and part probing
Experience designing fixtures and executing full machine setups
Solid understanding of GD&T, datum structuring, and inspection techniques
Experience with manual mill and lathe operations
Ability to work independently and make sound machining and process decisions