Apprentice Machine Operator Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next‑generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

As a CNC Lathe Machinist, you will set up and operate CNC turning equipment to produce precision aerospace components that meet demanding dimensional, surface‑finish, and quality requirements. You will interpret engineering drawings and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), inspect components for accuracy, and maintain high standards of workmanship in a fast‑paced aerospace manufacturing environment. You will play a key role in supporting production by machining tight‑tolerance parts, troubleshooting machining issues, and collaborating with quality and manufacturing teams.

Schedule
Second Shift:

• Monday–Friday, 4:30 p.m.–3:15 p.m., with Saturday availability from 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Responsibilities

• Sets up and operates CNC lathes and turning centers to manufacture precision aerospace components.
• Reads and interprets engineering drawings, blueprints, GD&T, and process documentation.
• Sets up tooling, work holding, inserts, offsets, and cutting parameters.
• Loads, verifies, and makes minor edits to CNC programs.
• Sets and adjusts tool offsets to maintain dimensions throughout production.
• Machines components from materials including aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and other aerospace alloys.
• Performs first‑piece, in‑process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Uses micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, thread gauges, height gauges, and other inspection tools.
• Monitors tool wear, machine condition, cutting performance, and part quality.
• Troubleshoots dimensional, tooling, surface‑finish, and machining issues.
• Maintains accurate production, inspection, and traceability records.
• Follows aerospace quality standards, company procedures, and safety requirements.
• Maintains machines, tooling, fixtures, and work areas in a clean and safe condition.
• Works with Quality and Manufacturing Supervisors to resolve production and quality issues.
• Participates in continuous improvement activities to support productivity, quality, and machining efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Five or more years of CNC lathe machining experience, preferably in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
• Strong CNC lathe setup and operating skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Knowledge of cutting tools, inserts, feeds, speeds, and work holding.
• Ability to perform precision measurements and dimensional inspections.
• Basic understanding of CNC G‑code and M‑code.
• Strong mathematical, mechanical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work to tight tolerances.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multi‑axis CNC lathes or live‑tool turning centers.
• Experience machining titanium, Inconel, or other difficult aerospace materials.
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality and traceability requirements.
• Experience with Mori Seki or similar CNC controls.
• Ability to make basic program edits and troubleshoot CNC programs.
• Formal CNC machining certification, apprenticeship, or vocational training.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and handle tooling, fixtures, raw materials, and finished components as required.
• Ability to perform repetitive machining and inspection tasks.
• Ability to work safely around machine tools, cutting fluids, chips, and manufacturing equipment.
  The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Special Mentions
No travel is required for this position.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.