Senior CNC Machinist - Aerospace & Defense R&D (CNC Programming / Setup)

At a Glance

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Company: Sierra Lobo, Inc.
Location: Las Cruces, NM
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Up to $41.70 per hour
Shift: Day Shift (schedule to be discussed during interview)
Overtime: As Needed
Experience Level: Senior | 10+ Years CNC Machining Experience
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen Required

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Why This Role Exists

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Sierra Lobo is expanding its advanced manufacturing capabilities in support of aerospace, defense, cryogenic systems, and next-generation technology development programs.

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This position plays a critical role in producing precision components and prototype hardware used in highly demanding engineering and research environments. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled machinist capable of independently programming, setting up, operating, and troubleshooting CNC equipment while maintaining exceptionally tight tolerances and quality standards.

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If you enjoy challenging one-off projects, complex setups, and work that directly supports cutting-edge technology development, this is an opportunity to join a team building hardware that helps shape the future of aerospace exploration and national security.

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The Work You'll Be Doing

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In this role, you will:

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• Program, set up, operate, and maintain CNC machining equipment with minimal supervision
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• Produce precision components while holding tolerances as tight as ±0.0001"
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• Review drawings, machining requirements, and manufacturing specifications
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• Select tooling, workholding, speeds, feeds, and machining strategies for complex parts
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• Perform first-article and in-process inspections to verify quality requirements
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• Troubleshoot machining issues and make adjustments to maintain accuracy and efficiency
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• Support prototype, R&D, and low-volume manufacturing projects
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• Work independently and collaboratively with engineers, technicians, and other manufacturing personnel
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• Maintain a strong safety-first mindset while supporting a safe shop environment
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• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less-experienced machinists as needed
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Machines, Controls & Software

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You'll work with equipment and technology such as:

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• CNC Mills and Precision Machining Centers
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• Multi-Axis Machining Equipment
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• Manual Machine Tools
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• CamWorks Programming Software
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• Precision Inspection Equipment
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• Certified Measurement and Calibration Tools
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Materials You'll Work With

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Depending on project requirements, you may machine:

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• Aluminum
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• Stainless Steel
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• Alloy Steels
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• Titanium
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• Inconel
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• Composite Materials
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• Specialty Aerospace and Defense Materials
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What We're Looking ForRequired

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• 10+ years of machining experience, trade school training, or a combination of both
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• Ability to independently program, set up, and operate CNC equipment
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• Experience producing precision components to extremely tight tolerances
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• Strong blueprint reading and machining fundamentals
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• Ability to work with minimal supervision
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• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
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• Basic computer proficiency
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• Valid driver's license
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• Ability to pass applicable physical requirements
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• U.S. Citizenship required
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Preferred

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• Experience with CamWorks programming software
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• Aerospace, defense, R&D, or prototype manufacturing experience
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• Multi-axis machining experience
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• Experience machining titanium, Inconel, and other exotic materials
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• Prior leadership or mentoring experience
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Why Machinists Like Working Here

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Machinists choose Sierra Lobo because they get the opportunity to work on projects that matter.

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• Aerospace and defense technology development work
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• Advanced prototype and R&D manufacturing environment
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• Challenging, highly technical machining projects
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• Exposure to cryogenic systems, aerospace hardware, and advanced engineering programs
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• Opportunity to work alongside engineers and technical specialists
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• Stable organization supporting government and commercial customers
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• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package
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Pay, Benefits & SchedulePay

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Up to $41.70 per hour

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Compensation is based on experience, skills, and overall qualifications.

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Benefits

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Sierra Lobo offers a comprehensive total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a broad range of employee benefits.

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Schedule

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Full-time position based in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

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Overtime may be available based on project and production requirements.

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Apply

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Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.

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Apply Now or Save This Job to come back later.