CNC Machining Engineering Specialist

About the role

Hadrian - Manufacturing the Future Hadrian is building autonomous factories that help aerospace and defense companies manufacture rockets, satellites, jets, and ships up to 10x faster and up to 2x cheaper. By combining advanced software, robotics, and full-stack manufacturing, we are reinventing how America produces its most critical parts. We’re accelerating our mission with the launch of Factory 3 in Mesa, Arizona, a 290,000-square-foot facility creating 350 new jobs. We are expanding rapidly to support thousands of future hires, launching Hadrian Maritime to expand into naval production, and introducing a Factory-as-a-Service model that delivers complete systems instead of individual parts. Hadrian is backed by leading investors including T. Rowe Price, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, and Andreessen Horowitz, our fast-growing team is united around reindustrializing American manufacturing for the 21st century and beyond. Join Us in Advancing Precision Machining We are building advanced machining capabilities by integrating multi-axis CNC systems, large- format equipment, and precision tooling into a unified production environment. From raw stock processing through complex 5-axis machining and finishing, we treat machining as a tightly controlled system where kinematics, tool dynamics, and material behavior determine performance. We are solving complex challenges in large-scale machining, multi-axis toolpaths, tight- tolerance work, and production scalability. This requires engineers with deep expertise in CNC systems, tooling, and process optimization. This is a general opportunity to engage CNC engineers with specialized experience across key machining technologies. Core Specialty Areas Tooling & Workholding Systems: Tool presetting (standard, heat shrink, Regofix), tool life management, fixturing Cutting & Preprocessing: CNC bandsaw, waterjet cutting (including thick plate, large-format ~10ft x 20ft) Multi-Axis Machining: 5-axis machining (including U-axis configurations), complex toolpath strategies Large-Format Machining: Gantry mills (~8m class), horizontal boring mills (HBM), large envelope machining Turning & Mill-Turn Systems:Vertical turning lathes (VTL), mill-turn centers (long-bed, large diameter, multi-turret, B- axis) Precision & Non-Traditional Machining: Wire EDM, sinker EDM What You’ll Do Develop, program, and optimize CNC machining processes for precision, efficiency, and throughput Define tooling strategies, cutting parameters, and toolpaths for complex geometries and materials Partner with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure dimensional accuracy and process stability Lead root cause analysis for machining defects (chatter, tool wear, thermal distortion, tolerance drift) Create and maintain machining process documentation, setup instructions, and control plans What We’re Looking For Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent hands-on machining experience Demonstrated expertise in CNC machining, multi-axis programming, or tooling systems Strong understanding of machining physics (cutting forces, tool wear, heat generation, vibration) Ability to interpret complex technical drawings and GD&T requirements Experience in production environments with tight tolerances and high precision requirements What Will Set You Apart Experience with large-format or heavy machining systems (gantry, HBM, large VTL) Deep expertise in 5-axis programming and advanced CAM strategies Familiarity with difficult-to-machine materials (e.g., titanium, Inconel, hardened steels) Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high-precision manufacturing environments Benefits Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees 401k Relocation support may be provided for certain situations, based on business need. Flexible vacation policy ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here . Hadrian Is An Equal Opportunity Employer It is the Company’s policy to provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. The Company does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race inclusive of traits historically associated with race (including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles, such as braids, locks and twists), color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, national origin (including, in California, possession of a drivers license), ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, height or weight, medical condition, family care status, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, exercise of reproductive rights, any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws, or any combination of the above characteristics. When necessary, the Company also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled candidates and employees, including for candidates or employees who are disabled by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.