Senior CNC Programmer

• We are looking for an experienced Senior CNC Programmer to lead the development and execution of advanced machining processes for complex components. This role requires deep expertise in multi-axis programming and hands-on operation, along with the ability to support rapid iteration in a fast-paced R&D or flight development environment. The ideal candidate is highly technical, detail-oriented, and capable of driving parts from initial concept through stable, lights-out production.
• Roles and Responsibilities:
• Program, set up, and operate CNC mills and lathes across multiple configurations, including 2-axis, 3-axis, 3+1 rotary, full 5-axis, and mill/turn platforms
• Interpret engineering drawings, applying GD&T principles and tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure part conformity
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot CNC programs using CAM software such as Esprit, or similar
• Determine cutting tool strategies for CNC programs
• Generate and refine post-processed code to ensure efficient, safe, and repeatable machining operations
• Create comprehensive setup sheets, tooling lists, and standardized work instructions for repeatable manufacturing
• Lead machining process development from first article through full production readiness
• Design and implement lights-out machining strategies, ensuring process stability and minimal operator intervention
• Collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve technical challenges and improve manufacturability
• Identify and implement cycle time reductions, tooling improvements, and cost-saving opportunities
• Support rapid prototyping and iterative development in an agile, high-mix/low-volume environment
• Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC programming experience in a production or R&D environment
• Strong hands-on experience with multi-axis machining (2-axis, 3-axis, 3+1 rotary, 5-axis, and mill/turn)
• Proficiency with CAM software such as Esprit, or equivalent
• Experience running lights-out production environments
• Demonstrated ability to transition parts from first article to full production
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Experience creating detailed setup documentation and process instructions
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in a startup or agile development environment
• Experience with Fanuc CNC controllers
• Experience in an AS9100 (or similar) machining environment
• Experience in fast-paced R&D or prototype-driven manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with high-precision, tight-tolerance components
• Experience machining high strength metallics, superalloys, and/or graphite
• Key Competencies
• Advanced multi-axis machining and programming expertise
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Process optimization and continuous improvement mindset
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Effective cross-functional communication and collaboration
• Location
• We are located in Torrance, CA in a 322,000 square foot, brand new facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises.
• Culture
• At Antares, we like to specifically tie each role to our founding document’s set of values–here are the top five cultural values we think you should believe at your core to be successful:

At Antares, our long-term mission is to make clean energy abundant from Earth to the Asteroid Belt. We’re fueled by the belief that advanced nuclear energy can strengthen our military, solve the climate crisis, elevate global living standards, and expand humanity's presence in outer space. To achieve our mission, we’re building mass-producible, inherently safe, deployable microreactors that can be used terrestrially, underwater, and in space. Formed in 2023, the Antares team hails from SpaceX, The White House, MIT, Rigetti Computing, The Air Force, General Atomics, Relativity Space, Ursa Major, and National Laboratories like Los Alamos, Idaho, and Oak Ridge. Antares has raised over $130M in venture capital from top-tier investors and has over $13M in government funding. About the Role