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CNC Machinist III

Firefly Aerospace Inc., Austin, TX, United States


Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company that enables our world to launch, land, and operate in space – anywhere, anytime. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the only commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24‑hour notice and the only company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Our launch vehicles, lunar landers, and orbital vehicles provide government and commercial customers with full mission services from low Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.

SUMMARY
Join our dynamic team of highly skilled machinists with a combined experience of over 300 years of machining who will mentor you to manufacture cutting edge components with the latest tools available in the industry. Learn to manufacture complex geometry rocket engine components made from high‑temperature alloys and be trained on sophisticated machining processes as well as cutting‑edge machinery. We pride ourselves on cross‑training all machinists on every piece of machinery we have.

Location for this role is at our Manufacturing site in Briggs, TX, 25 minutes north of Cedar Park. 2nd shift openings available now.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Set up and operate 5‑axis CNC machines (mills/turn‑mill centers) for complex aerospace components

Interpret and work from engineering drawings, GD&T, and CAD models

Machine high‑performance materials such as Inconel, titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys

Select tooling, speeds/feeds, and cutting strategies for precision and efficiency

Perform in‑process inspections using precision measurement tools (micrometers, calipers, indicators, CMM interface familiarity preferred)

Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineers to optimize programs and improve cycle times

Troubleshoot machining issues including tool wear, chatter, thermal distortion, and surface finish defects

Maintain proper documentation and ensure compliance with AS9100 quality standards

Support continuous improvement initiatives in machining processes and workflow

Be available to work 2nd shift, overtime as needed

QUALIFICATIONS
Required

High school diploma or equivalent (technical certification preferred)

8+ years of CNC machining experience, including hands‑on 5‑axis machining

Ability to set up and operate 5‑axis CNC machines independently

Strong proficiency in reading blueprints and interpreting GD&T

Experience holding tight tolerances (±.001” or better)

Familiarity with precision measurement tools (micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges)

Experience machining metals such as Inconel, aluminum, stainless steel, and/or titanium

Basic understanding of G‑code and CNC machine controls (Haas, Fanuc, Siemens, etc.)

Ability to perform in‑process inspections and basic quality checks

Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety standards

Ability to work in a fast‑paced production environment with minimal supervision

Must be able to pass background check and drug screeningAble to perform physically demanding work—standing, bending, lifting 25 lbs. regularly

Positive attitude, reliable, and a team player

Good communication skills, written and verbal

Advanced experience with complex 5‑axis toolpaths and multi‑surface machining

Proficiency in CAM software (Mastercam, Siemens NX, Fusion 360, or similar)

Experience machining high‑performance aerospace materials (Inconel, Hastelloy, titanium alloys)

Familiarity with fixture design and advanced workholding strategies

Experience troubleshooting machining challenges (chatter, tool wear, thermal distortion)

Exposure to CMM inspection and advanced metrology techniques

Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high‑precision manufacturing environments

Understanding of AS9100 quality systems and documentation requirements

Experience in high‑mix, low‑volume or prototype machining environments

Ability to collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering on process improvements and cycle time reduction

Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience

Strong team mindset with ability to mentor junior machinists or operators

Space for You

Unlimited PTO for exempt employees

3‑month sabbatical for every 5 years of service

Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance

Mental health services

Paid military leave

12 weeks paid maternity leave

4 weeks paid spouse leave

$20k towards family planning: fertility, surrogacy, adoption

Dog friendly workplace

Space for Your Career

$10k/year towards trade school or college

Ongoing coaching to advance leadership skills

Employee-ownership with stock bonuses

4% Safe Harbor 401(k) matching

$10k bonus for home purchase in Cedar Park, Texas

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, pet Insurance, and flexible PTO options.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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