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Technicians

CNC Lathe Machinist (Starship)

SpaceX logoSpaceX$23.00–$27.00/hrHawthorne, CAPosted 3mo ago
  • US citizenship
  • ITAR / US person

How this pay compares

This posting states $47.8k–$56.2k a year. Open machinist jobs in California post a median of $126k a year, the middle half $115k–$146k, across 15 jobs that state their pay, so this one is below the middle half of what they post.

Machinists in California: pay by town and employer

About the job

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not.

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. ## RESPONSIBILITIES - Perform precision setup, operation, and program editing of CNC machines (Okuma MULTUS) for the production of non-flight and flight-critical hardware - Prioritize daily production tasks to meet customer need dates while consistently delivering the highest-quality parts - Manage CNC cutting tools to ensure all required tools are properly loaded, measured, and ready before program execution - Perform on-machine deburring of hardware to improve part quality consistency while reducing manual intervention - Perform CNC machine preventative maintenance on a weekly and monthly basis - Maintain shop organization and cleanliness through proper management of chip bins, lubricants, greases, 5S practices, and general facility upkeep - Maintain flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while providing support to team members as needed - Complete work instructions and test plans while accurately documenting process data at each stage - Propose improved methods in machining techniques, fixture design, and tooling selection to maximize operational efficiency ## BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - High school diploma or equivalency certificate - 1+ years of experience in CNC machining ## PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE - 5+ years of experience operating CNC machinery - Ability to program using Esprit CAD/CAM software - Proficient knowledge in high efficiency milling and turning - Ability to read technical data, write clearly, and perform basic arithmetic calculations - Experience in shop math, tooling technology, blueprint reading, and measurement of parts - Strong interpersonal skills including, but not limited to, contributing to a team-oriented environment, balancing the team, and individual responsibilities - Capable to learn all assets in the shop; strong mechanical aptitude - Able and willing to cross train their peers and or to be cross trained by their peers ## ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS - Estimated start times: 1st shift (5:00 AM) & 2nd shift (2:30 PM) - Must be able to work overtime and weekends as needed - Must be capable of lifting 35 lbs. unassisted - Must be capable of standing and kneeling for 8 hours - Ability to use physical and repetitive movements such as bending or twisting, using hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls - Ability to be exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting ## Pay range Level 1: $23.00 - $27.00/hour Level 2: $26.00 - $32.50/hour Level 3: $31.00 - $38.00/hour Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. ## ITAR REQUIREMENTS - To conform to U.S.

Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here .

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of 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.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com .

From SpaceX's job posting, checked 7 Nov 2026. The employer's own page is the final word on requirements and availability.

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About SpaceX

Designs, manufactures and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft.

Pay on its listings: 53.2% of its open jobs state an hourly rate

How it pays: Paid as an employee on SpaceX's own payroll (salaried or hourly, as each posting states).

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