CNC Machinist - Christchurch

Manufacture hardware that goes to space.

At Dawn Aerospace, we build satellite propulsion systems and the world's fastest-climbing spaceplane. We're looking for an experienced CNC Machinist to programme, set up and run complex machining jobs that become flight hardware.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys owning the entire machining process, from CAM programming and fixturing through to first-off parts and repeatable production. You'll work on everything from rapid R&D prototypes to production hardware, helping scale manufacturing as we grow.

You'll work closely with engineers and technicians to solve problems, improve processes and manufacture high-precision components from stainless steel, titanium, aluminium and Inconel. If you take pride in producing exceptional work, enjoy technical challenges and want to see the parts you make fly, we'd like to hear from you.

What You'll Do

CNC Programming & Machining

• Create and optimise CNC programs using Fusion 360, TopSolid, SolidCAM or similar CAM software.
• Design and implement fixturing for safe, repeatable machining.
• Machine complex components from raw material and post-processed additive manufactured parts.
• Select tooling, workholding and machining strategies for high-precision applications.
• Prove out new programs and transition them into reliable production processes.
• Set up and operate CNC machines while maintaining tight tolerances and quality standards.
• Inspect finished components using precision measuring equipment.
• Manufacture hardware across the full product lifecycle, from prototype development through to production.

Process Improvement

• Improve cycle times, tooling, fixturing and machining methods.
• Develop robust, repeatable and scalable manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with engineers to solve machining and design challenges.
• Drive continuous improvement in quality, efficiency and reliability.

What We're Looking For

• 5+ years' CNC machining experience.
• Proven experience programming, setting up and operating CNC machines.
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling and workholding.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and complex GD&T.
• Experience inspecting precision components against specification.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of outcomes.
• Clear communication skills and a collaborative approach.

Ideally You'll Also Have

• Experience with Fusion 360, TopSolid or SolidCAM.
• Experience with Fanuc and/or Heidenhain controllers.
• Experience machining aerospace, motorsport, medical or other high-precision components.
• Experience with mill-turn or multi-axis machining environments.

Bonus Experience

Experience programming and operating an NTX 1000 or similar multi-axis mill-turn machine would be highly valuable.

Experience with any of the following would also be beneficial:

• DMG MORI NTX 1000, 9-axis mill-turn
• DMG MORI NLX 2000 Y-axis lathe
• DMG MORI DMU 50, 5-axis mill
• HAAS VM2 and VF2 machining centres

Why Dawn Aerospace?

• Manufacture flight hardware that goes to space.
• Own complex machining projects from program to finished part.
• Work with modern CNC equipment and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Join a high-performance team with real autonomy and responsibility.
• See your work move from design to testing and flight in months, not years.
• Be part of a rapidly growing aerospace company building the future of space transportation.

Diversity & Inclusion

At Dawn Aerospace, we believe that diverse teams build better solutions. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued and supported to do their best work.

 

About Dawn Aerospace

Dawn Aerospace is a space transportation company with a purpose.
Our mission is to enable the next generation of space users by providing more sustainable and scalable ways to access and move around in space. We believe this access, in the form of a transportation network, will fundamentally change what’s possible from space. We currently focus on three areas of space transportation:

• In-space propulsion
  We're a leading supplier of turnkey green propulsion systems for various classes of satellites. Our systems utilise safe, accessible propellants and we have over 170 of these propulsion units on more than 40 operational satellites already. A further 200 units are in production.
• In-space servicing
  Coupled with our propulsion expertise, we are ensuring that our customers' satellites are refuellable. In the coming years, Dawn will offer a refueling service to enable life extension of customer satellites. This new market is aligned with our sustainability goal to ensue a clean and safe space for everyone! 
• Spaceplane
  We are developing the fastest and highest-flying aircraft ever to take off from a runway, combining the extreme performance of rocket propulsion with the reusability of conventional airplanes to enable high-frequency, low-cost access to sub-orbital space.

Our international teams are distributed across four locations: the Netherlands, France, New Zealand, and the USA.

Apply for this Job

Important!

If you think you have what it takes but are unsure that you check every box, we still want to hear from you.

To all recruitment agencies: Dawn Aerospace does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our job’s alias, our employees, or any other company location. Dawn Aerospace will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.