Senior Composite CNC Programmer/Machinist

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Composites/CNC team within Mechanical Services builds high-priority prototype hardware to advance Anduril’s mission of protecting service members and securing national security. We work shoulder-to-shoulder with design engineers in a high-tempo environment, building parts directly from rapidly evolving CAD models. Our hardware transitions from concept to real-world vehicles in weeks, not years. This is a low-volume, prototype and development environment. No production.

ABOUT THE JOB

We are seeking a high-ownership Composite CNC Programmer/Operator to join our rapidly growing team. In this role, you will own the end-to-end manufacturing process—from CAM programming and 5-axis setup to operation and final part inspection. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on, R&D-focused position. You program it, set it up, run it, and inspect it. There is no production work here; you will solve complex, unique tooling and prototyping challenges daily, playing a critical role in bringing next-generation defense technologies to life.

WHAT YOU’LL DO 

• Program, set up, and operate large-format 5-axis CNC gantry routers and mills for trimming, drilling, and surfacing advanced composite components.
• Work closely with design and manufacturing engineers, providing real-time feedback on early-stage prototype models to optimize Design for Manufacturing (DFM).
• Design and fabricate robust work holding, including custom vacuum fixtures for delicate, near-net-shape parts.
• Machine master models and direct-to-part molds from foam, tooling board, and other pattern materials.
• Troubleshoot unique machining challenges inherent to composites, including delamination, fiber pull-out, and thermal degradation.
• Perform in-process quality control and dimensional verification to deliver high-quality prototype components with superior surface finishes.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 4+ years of CAM programming experience (e.g., Esprit, hyperMILL) and 5+ years of hands-on CNC setup and operation.
• Deep understanding of machining complex composite and tooling materials, including carbon fiber (pre-preg and wet-layup), fiberglass, Kevlar, honeycomb, foam cores, and high-density urethane/epoxy tooling boards (e.g., RenShape).
• Strong command of G and M code, high-speed 5-axis machining, GD&T, and experience with large-gantry 5-axis machines (CMS) and Fanuc controls.
• Expertise in cutting-tool selection for abrasive materials (e.g., PCD, diamond-coated routers, compression drills) and custom work holding.
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing R&D environment with a strong bias for action and minimal supervision.
• Passion for national security, defense technology, and solving critical hardware challenges.
• Must be a U.S. Person as this position requires access to export-controlled data.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced 5-axis simultaneous programming for complex surface contouring and trimming.
• Experience with Siemens NX CAD and Teamcenter.
• Familiarity with probing cycles and on-machine verification (e.g., Renishaw).
• Experience with metallic machining and hybrid fabrication workflows.