CNC Programmer / Machinist

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  These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have: Aerospace manufacturing experience  Experience supporting both prototype and low-rate production environments  Familiarity with scaling machining processes toward higher-rate production  Experience establishing or growing a machine shop function  Why This Role  Be the first machinist hire and help shape the future of the machine shop  Work directly on a first-of-its-kind hybrid-electric aircraft program  High level of ownership, autonomy, and technical influence  Collaborative, engineering-driven environment  Pay Range:  $40/HR—$56/HR (USD) Offices: Los Angeles, California, United States (Torrance);