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Defense Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fairbanks Morse Defense

CNC Machinist (Defense)

Walpole, MA · On-site

$26.01 - $37.66/hr

CNC Machinist III Fairbanks Morse Defense | Walpole, MA Shift Openings: 2nd Shift and 3rd Shift 2nd Shift Hours: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM 3rd Shift Hours: 11:00 PM - 7:30 AM Build What Matters. Support the ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

CNC Machinist (Defense)

Walpole, MA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

CNC Machinist III Fairbanks Morse Defense | Walpole, MA Shift Openings: 2nd Shift and 3rd Shift 2nd Shift Hours: 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM 3rd Shift Hours: 11:00 PM - 7:30 AM Build What Matters. Support the ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop outside of Anaheim, CA We machine frames and structural components for defense platforms-true large-format work, on ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop outside of Anaheim, CA We machine frames and structural components for defense platforms-true large-format work, on ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop outside of Anaheim, CA We machine frames and structural components for defense platforms-true large-format work, on ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

East Aurora, NY · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

We're hiring experienced CNC Machinists for our precision aerospace and defense manufacturing facility in East Aurora, NY . You'll manufacture complex, high-precision components on CNC mills, lathes ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

East Aurora, NY · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

We're hiring experienced CNC Machinists for our precision aerospace and defense manufacturing facility in East Aurora, NY . You'll manufacture complex, high-precision components on CNC mills, lathes ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our high-mix, low-volume aerospace and defense machine shop. You'll set up and run precision 3 and 4-axis CNC mills and lathes producing complex components ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$75K/yr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our high-mix, low-volume aerospace and defense machine shop. You'll set up and run precision 3 and 4-axis CNC mills and lathes producing complex components ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

East Aurora, NY · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

We're hiring experienced CNC Machinists for our precision aerospace and defense manufacturing facility in East Aurora, NY . You'll manufacture complex, high-precision components on CNC mills, lathes ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our high-mix, low-volume aerospace and defense machine shop. You'll set up and run precision 3 and 4-axis CNC mills and lathes producing complex components ...

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Defense Machinist information

See salary details

$14

$25

$36

How much do defense machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense machinist in the United States is $25.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense machinist?

Defense Machinists are skilled tradespeople who manufacture, repair, and maintain precision metal parts and equipment used in military and defense applications. They operate various machine tools, such as lathes, mills, and grinders, to create components that meet strict specifications and tolerances required for defense systems. Their work is critical to ensuring the reliability and safety of military hardware, vehicles, and weaponry. Defense Machinists often work in government facilities or private companies that contract with defense agencies, and they must adhere to rigorous security and quality control standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense machinist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Machinist, you need strong technical skills in machining, blueprint reading, and precision measurement, typically backed by a high school diploma, apprenticeship, or vocational certification. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and quality assurance systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work well under pressure are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities are crucial for producing precise, mission-critical components that meet strict defense industry standards and ensure operational safety.

What are some common challenges faced by defense machinists, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Defense Machinists often work with highly specialized materials and tight tolerances required for military and defense components, which can be challenging due to strict quality and security standards. Precision and attention to detail are crucial, and machinists may encounter complex blueprints or unique part specifications that require advanced problem-solving skills. Collaborating closely with engineers and quality assurance teams helps ensure all parts meet rigorous requirements. Staying updated on new technologies and continuous training can also help overcome these challenges and support career growth within the defense industry.

What is the difference between Defense Machinist vs Aircraft Machinist?

AspectDefense MachinistAircraft Machinist
CredentialsRelevant certifications, security clearancesAircraft maintenance certifications, FAA licenses
Work EnvironmentMilitary facilities, defense contractorsAirports, aircraft maintenance hangars
Industry UsageDefense industry, military projectsAerospace, commercial and military aircraft

Defense Machinists and Aircraft Machinists share skills in precision machining and often require similar certifications. However, Defense Machinists focus on military equipment and defense systems, while Aircraft Machinists specialize in aircraft maintenance and repair. Both roles are essential in their respective industries and often overlap in technical skills, but they serve different sectors within the manufacturing and maintenance fields.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Machinist jobs?

For Defense Machinist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Defense Machinist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,313 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

CNC Set-Up Machinist Aerospace & Defense - $5,000 Sign-on Bonus

Grove City, OH

Advance CNC Machining
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Advance CNC Machiningexternal

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

CNC 4 & 5-Axis Setup Machinist - Experienced- Aerospace & Defense Machine Shop

Advance CNC Machining-Grove City, Ohio

$40 per hour DOE


$5,000 Sign-On Bonus - $2,500 at 90 Days + $2,500 at 6 Months

Are you the person people trust to set up a job and get it right?


Advance CNC Machining is looking for an experienced4- and 5-Axis CNC Setup Machinist who takes pride in producing quality parts and can be trusted to take ownership of a job from setup through production.


We're looking for someone who isconscientious, independent, detail-oriented, and knowledgeable. Someone who understands that a successful setup isn't just getting a machine running-it's creating a process that produces accurate, repeatable parts.


At Advance CNC Machining, we specialize in producing high precision machined parts for customers from coast to coast including equipment manufacturers, food, drug and the aerospace and defense industries. We believe in getting the right people in the right seatsso we can fulfill our mission tocreate more opportunities for our families and our neighbors.

What You'll Do

As an experienced Setup Machinist, you'll be responsible for setting up complex CNC machining jobs and making sure they're ready to produce quality parts consistently.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Setting up CNC machining centers for production
  • Creating first article parts for verification
  • Supporting CNC Operators during production runs

Compensation Package includes:

  • 401k plan with agenerous 100% employer matchup to $5200 per year
  • 80 hours of paid time off (PTO) your first year, increasing annually up to 200 hours.
  • 6 paid holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance coverage options
  • Bonus opportunities

What You Bring

We're looking for a Setup Machinist who takes ownership of getting the job right-not someone who simply gets the machine running.

The skills needed:

  • Strong ability toread and interpret blueprints, drawings, and CMM data, including GD&T.
  • Proficiency withprecision measurement toolsincluding calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and more.
  • Strong understanding of CNC programming.
  • Knowledge of CNC machines

Why Advance CNC?

We're a refreshingly different, growing company of 60+ team members where ordinary people do extraordinary things.

  • Be part of a fast-growing $20+ million-dollar company with an exciting future.
  • Take ownership of a critical leadership role.
  • Gain opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
  • Join a team that values hard work, accountability, collaboration, and commitment


Take the Next Step

If you're an experienced CNC Setup Machinist who takes pride in getting the details right, producing quality work, and being someone your team can count on, we'd love to hear from you.

Check us out at Advance CNC Machining and apply today!


Successful pre-employment drugscreenand criminal backgroundcheckare conditions of employment.

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