Propulsion Machinist Verified today
About the Role
Apex Space is seeking a Propulsion Machinist to support rapid development and fabrication of spacecraft propulsion hardware. You'll machine prototype and development parts, tooling, fixtures, and test hardware while working directly with propulsion engineers to turn designs into hardware quickly.
This is a hands-on role for a versatile machinist who thrives in a fast-paced development environment. You'll work across CNC and manual machining, support quick-turn requests, and help solve manufacturing challenges that keep propulsion development and testing moving.
Responsibilities
- Machine prototype and development hardware for spacecraft propulsion systems using CNC and manual mills and lathes
- Fabricate quick-turn parts to support propulsion development, testing, and hardware builds
- Work from engineering drawings, CAD models, sketches, and engineering direction to produce high-quality hardware
- Set up and operate machine tools, including workholding, tooling, offsets, and machining parameters
- Support fabrication of test-stand hardware, tooling, fixtures, and ground support equipment (GSE)
- Collaborate directly with propulsion engineers to understand design intent and determine practical manufacturing approaches
- Select appropriate materials, stock, tooling, and machining processes based on part requirements
- Provide design-for-manufacturing feedback to improve machinability, lead time, cost, and part quality
- Inspect completed hardware using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision measurement equipment
- Maintain machines, tooling, and shop equipment to ensure they remain safe, organized, and ready for use
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment while following all shop and equipment safety requirements
- Support additional machining, fabrication, and shop activities as needed
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 3+ years of hands-on machining experience using CNC and/or manual mills and lathes
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, CAD models, and technical documentation
- Experience setting up machine tools, workholding, tooling, and offsets
- Proficiency with precision measurement and inspection equipment, including calipers, micrometers, and gauges
- Ability to produce one-off, prototype, and low-volume hardware to tight tolerances and aggressive timelines
- Strong mechanical aptitude, craftsmanship, and attention to detail
- Ability to work directly with engineers and communicate manufacturing constraints and recommendations
- Safety-first mindset and ability to maintain an organized machining environment
- Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15)
Nice to Have
- Trade or vocational training, machining apprenticeship, or military machining experience
- CNC programming experience using G-code and CAM software such as Fusion 360, Mastercam, or similar
- Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and other aerospace or exotic alloys
- Experience machining propulsion, fluid-system, vacuum, test, or aerospace flight hardware
- Experience supporting rapid prototype or R&D machining environments
- Welding, sheet metal, or additional fabrication experience
- Familiarity with cleanliness and contamination-control requirements for propulsion or fluid-system hardware
What We Offer
- Equity in Apex
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
- Comprehensive PTO: 15 days vacation growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
- Competitive 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
- 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
- Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
- Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
- Equipment and desk setup to support productivity
- In-person collaboration at Playa Vista office with work/life flexibility