Senior CNC Programmer & Machinist (Weapon Systems)

CoAspire (https://www.coaspire.com) is a cutting-edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, we're at the forefront of building reliable, affordable mass weapons that protect and empower our nation’s warfighters. Our tight-knit team thrives in a collaborative environment where safety, quality, and work-life balance come first with a focus on professional growth at our new 27,000 sq. ft. facility. Join us to make a tangible impact on mission-critical technology while enjoying Northern Virginia's vibrant community.

Position: You will serve as the lead CNC programming and machining expert for our weapon system production line. This hands-on role combines advanced offline/online CNC programming, complex fabrication setups, and precision machining of tight-tolerance flight-critical parts (aluminum, titanium, stainless) while mentoring a small team of junior machinists. Working directly on multi-axis mills, lathes, and other machines, you will ensure on-time delivery of AS9100D/ISO-9001/ITAR-compliant hardware in support of high-rate weapon production for the government.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize complex CNC programs (G-code, conversational) using Mastercam, Siemens NX CAM, or similar for 3, 5 or greater-axis mills and live-tooling lathes.
• Select tooling, fixtures, speeds/feeds, and cutting strategies to achieve cycle-time requirements for a variety of high-value defense components.
• Perform full machine setup, prove-out first articles, troubleshoot programs, and make real-time adjustments to ensure conformance to production requirements.
• Machine precision components (tolerances ±0.0005" or tighter) for structures, propulsion interfaces, guidance sections, and warhead assemblies.
• Conduct in-process inspections using CMM and precision machinist measurement tools; support FAI (AS9102) and source inspection.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers, QA engineers and technicians in support of process improvements to support threshold production rates.
• Maintain program libraries, tooling presets, and documentation in compliance with company and government specifications.
• Lead a small team of machinists and assist with their tasking, best practices, safety and technical growth.
• Support other production line elements (warehousing, parts management, etc…) on an as-needed basis.

Qualifications:

• 8 years of combined CNC programming and precision machining experience in an aerospace/defense or equivalent high-precision job shop.
• Expert-level proficiency with Mastercam (preferred), Siemens NX CAM, Esprit, or GibbsCAM; capable of offline programming from solid models (CREO, SolidWorks/NX).
• Hands-on mastery of Haas, DMG MORI, Okuma, Mazak, or similar controls; experience with 5-axis milling and mill-turn essential.
• Proven ability to hold tight tolerances on difficult materials (titanium, hardened steels) in a low-volume/high-mix environment.
• Strong GD&T (ASME Y14.5) interpretation, blueprint reading, and metrology skills (CMM programming a plus).
• Experience in AS9100D/ISO-9001 shops producing ITAR-controlled hardware; familiarity with FAI, MRB, and RCCA processes.
• U.S. citizenship and current Secret clearance (or the ability to obtain a clearance).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and lead small teams on the production floor.

Desired Skills:

• Programming/operating Swiss-turn (Citizen, Star, Tsugami) or multi-axis grinding.
• Experience with missile, munition, or rocket motor component machining.
• Familiarity with Vericut simulation, electronic part probing and automated tool presetters.
• Trade school/apprenticeship completion or journeyman status.

What We Offer

Beyond competitive pay, we offer:

• Full benefits from day one: medical, dental and vision.
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting.
• PTO and Federal holidays

Apply now! We're reviewing applications on a rolling basis. Let's build the future together. No agencies, please.

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