Machine Programmer III

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!  

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

Position Summary

As a Level III CNC Programmer, you will apply your advanced technical expertise in manufacturing to produce flight-critical machined components for space systems. You'll leverage your extensive experience in CNC programming and operation to develop optimal machining strategies, create efficient programs, and solve complex manufacturing challenges for aerospace hardware.

Key Responsibilities

• Manufacturing Strategy Development

  • Transform engineering designs into comprehensive machining strategies
  • Optimize production processes for Mills, Lathes, Multi-Axis Mills/Lathes, and VTLs
  • Provide critical design-for-manufacturing feedback to engineering teams

• Programming & Technical Leadership

  • Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs for complex aerospace components
  • Design custom tooling and fixtures for specialized applications
  • Create detailed set-up documentation and technical instructions
  • Implement process improvements for both machining operations and workflows

• Quality & Production Support

  • Maintain rigorous configuration control for all manufacturing documentation
  • Troubleshoot manufacturing discrepancies and implement solutions
  • Support make-buy decisions with accurate machine time estimates
  • Ensure compliance with aerospace quality standards and specifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Passion for Blue Origin's mission of enabling millions of people living and working in space
• 15+ years of hands-on manufacturing experience
• 10+ years in CNC programming with NX/UG or MasterCam
• 5+ years experience machining hardened metals and working with nickel-based alloys and aluminum
• Expert-level blueprint reading skills including GD&T per ASME Y14.5M-1994 standard
• Proven experience with tooling/fixture design and optimization
• Strong skills in determining optimal cutting parameters and cutter selection
• Excellent communication and documentation abilities
• Self-motivated with strong prioritization skills to meet project deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with NX CAM software
• Experience with Vericut or similar simulation/verification software
• Expertise with exotic materials including nickel-based alloys, copper, and titanium
• CMM programming and operation experience
• CNC machine setup and operation capabilities
• Ability to support off-shift operations when required
• Experience operating heavy lifting equipment around flight critical hardware

Culture Statement

Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

• Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check

• Required for Certain Job Profiles:  Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subjec