Principal Machinist

Company Overview: At Firehawk Aerospace, we are at the forefront of innovation in aerospace technology, dedicated to shaping the future of national defense and space exploration. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Principal Machinist to join our dynamic team. This role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in an innovative work environment.

Position Overview: As a Principal Machinist at Firehawk Aerospace, you will assume a role in overseeing the production of critical hardware components for our rocket engines. Working alongside a team of machinists and technicians, you will be responsible for ensuring precision machining operations, adhering to quality standards, and promoting a culture of safety. Your expertise and commitment to excellence will directly contribute to our mission of becoming the next great American defense company.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership: Oversee and coordinate machining operations, providing guidance and support to other machinists to ensure efficient production processes.

Machining: Utilize conventional and CNC machining equipment, including lathes, mills, grinders, and other precision machines, to manufacture rocket engine components to exact specifications.

Blueprint Interpretation: Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to facilitate accurate machining processes.

Tool Selection: Select appropriate tools, materials, and cutting speeds for machining operations, considering the unique requirements of aerospace components.

Quality Control: Conduct in-process and final inspections to verify the quality and dimensional accuracy of machined parts, making adjustments as necessary to maintain precision.

Safety: Champion adherence to safety protocols and guidelines, promoting a safe working environment for all team members.

Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on machining equipment and tools to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Documentation: Maintain comprehensive records of machining processes, including setup, tooling, and inspection data.

Qualifications:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Technical training or certification in machining is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Machinist, with at least 10 years in the aerospace or related industry.

Tool Knowledge: Proficiency with a variety of machining tools and equipment.

Precision: Demonstrated commitment to precision and quality in machining operations.

Safety Conscious: Strong emphasis on safety practices and protocols.

Team Player: Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in programming, setting up, and operating CNC Lathes and Mills.

Experience with conventional lathe and mill setup and operation.

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and written instructions.

Strong understanding of shop mathematics and trigonometry.

Familiarity with part inspection and metrology tools, CMM programming and operation experience is advantageous.

Benefits:

Competitive compensation package

Comprehensive health and wellness benefits

Career growth opportunities

Exciting and challenging projects at the forefront of aerospace technology

A collaborative and innovative work environment

Join Firehawk Aerospace and be part of a team that is shaping the future of national defense and space exploration through cutting-edge engineering. If you are a passionate and experienced machinist looking to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply.

ITAR Requirements

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.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Machinists work in dynamic environments where precision and physical capability are essential. They are required to have the following physical abilities and adapt to various work conditions. Machinists must be mobile to operate machinery in a workshop or manufacturing setting. This includes using standard machine tools, equipment, and computer-controlled systems. The role may entail occasionally lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling objects weighing up to 50 pounds. This physical capability is necessary for handling materials and machine components. Machinists often stand for extended periods while operating machines. They may also need to walk, crouch, climb, and bend to access machinery and materials. Good vision is required to read technical drawings, inspect workpieces, and operate machinery effectively. Clear hearing and speech are essential for effective communication with colleagues and supervisors in person and over the telephone. Machinists may need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats to safeguard against potential hazards in the workshop. Flexibility in work schedules may be required. While travel is not a primary aspect of the job, there may be occasional requirements to travel for training or specific work assignments, possibly by air or automobile.

Security Clearance

May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship. Must also be able to satisfy federal government requirements for access to government information, and having dual citizenship may preclude you from being able to meet this requirement.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Firehawk Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk Aerospace 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.