ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defense Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$80K/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

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

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

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

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

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$80K/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

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

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$80K/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

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

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

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

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Chandler, AZ

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

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

EO Solutions Corp

Machinist

Las Vegas, NV

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Set up and operate CNC and manual machines (mills, lathes, grinders) to fabricate aerospace and defense components. * Proficiency in CNC programming and operation (Fanuc, Haas, or similar). * Read ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop. Our parts fly on F-16s, orbit on the International Space Station, and spin in nuclear centrifuges. We run low-volume ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

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

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Clinton, TN · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop. Our parts fly on F-16s, orbit on the International Space Station, and spin in nuclear centrifuges. We run low-volume ...

New

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Oak Ridge, TN

$27 - $33/hr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop. Our parts fly on F-16s, orbit on the International Space Station, and spin in nuclear centrifuges. We run low-volume ...

Laborup

CNC Machinist

Clinton, TN · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Overview We're hiring CNC Machinists for our aerospace and defense machine shop. Our parts fly on F-16s, orbit on the International Space Station, and spin in nuclear centrifuges. We run low-volume ...

New

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAircraft Mechanic JobsDefense Machinist Jobs

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 Machinist

Chandler, AZ • On-site

Laborup
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Laborupexternal

$75K/yr

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

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 for aerospace and defense customers. This is a clean, air-conditioned facility with modern equipment, challenging work, and the opportunity to continue developing your skills over time—including training on 5-axis machining for machinists who demonstrate strong fundamentals.

If you’re looking for a long-term shop where you’ll work on a wide variety of parts, build your setup skills, and have consistent optional overtime available, we’d like to talk.

Why Join Us

  • Modern Equipment: Clean, air-conditioned shop with well-maintained CNC equipment.
  • 5-Axis Training: Grow into 5-axis machining as your skills develop.
  • Optional Overtime: 10+ hours available weekly without being mandatory.

Compensation

  • $26 - $31 / hr
  • Shift differentials on 2nd and weekend
  • Optional overtime
  • After overtime, make over $75k / yr

Shift Options

  • 1st Shift: Monday–Friday (5x8s)
  • 2nd Shift: Monday–Friday (5x8s)
  • Weekend Days: Friday - Sunday (3x12s)

Responsibilities

  • Machine Setups: Set up CNC mills and lathes independently.
  • Machine Operation: Run production while maintaining quality standards.
  • Blueprint Reading: Interpret engineering drawings and GD&T requirements.
  • Tooling: Select tooling and establish proper offsets.
  • Inspection: Verify dimensions using precision measuring equipment.
  • Program Adjustments: Make offset and minor program changes when needed.
  • Troubleshooting: Resolve machining and dimensional issues during production.
  • Documentation: Complete inspection and production documentation accurately.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required

  • 2+ years of CNC machining experience
  • Experience setting up CNC machining jobs
  • Ability to read mechanical blueprints
  • Familiarity with GD&T fundamentals
  • Experience using precision measuring tools
  • Ability to hold tight machining tolerances

Preferred

  • Aerospace machining experience
  • Experience with high-mix job shop work
  • Experience making program edits
  • Strong tooling and workholding knowledge
  • Experience troubleshooting machining processes
  • G-code and M-code knowledge