Lead CNC Machinist

TL;DR

Lead CNC Machinist (CNC Machining): Coordinating daily machining work and leading setup/operation of advanced multi-axis CNC equipment with an accent on GD&T validation, complex troubleshooting, and process improvements. Focus on driving stable production from setup through repeatable throughput while maintaining quality, documentation, and shop-floor safety across rotating shifts.

Location: Torrance, California, United States

Salary: $52 - $69 USD (hourly pay range)

Company

Divergent builds an end-to-end adaptive factory system (DAPS) for optimally engineering, additively manufacturing, and assembling complex vehicle structures and subsystems.

What you will do

• Act as floor lead: coordinate peer machinists, manage daily workload, and maintain production continuity across shifts.
• Lead CNC setup and operation of 3-axis, 3+2, and 5-axis machining centers for complex prototype and production hardware.
• Apply advanced GD&T to validate setups and machining strategies; troubleshoot tooling, fixture alignment, machine limitations, and process instability.
• Collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturability and machining efficiency; develop/refine strategies to reduce setup time and improve cycle time and repeatability.
• Own machining operations from setup through stable production; support ramp activities and continuous improvement for throughput, quality, and repeatability.
• Maintain setup sheets and machining records; support inspections and participate in root-cause investigations and corrective actions while championing EHS and safety.

Requirements

• 5–8 years of CNC machining experience with strong multi-axis machining expertise.
• Advanced proficiency with Siemens and Heidenhain controllers.
• Advanced understanding of GD&T and machining process optimization.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex machining processes and setups independently.
• Experience implementing dynamic work offsets and advanced setup methodologies.
• Ability to lawfully access information and technology subject to US export controls.

Nice to have

• Experience machining additively manufactured components.
• Familiarity with gantry CNC systems and advanced machining technologies.
• Experience supporting rapid production or prototype manufacturing environments.
• Prior experience acting as a shift lead, supervisor delegate, or formal peer mentor.

Culture & Benefits

• Fast-paced, high-mix production environment with priorities shifting based on engineering changes, supply chain constraints, and program milestones.
• Paid vacation, sick time, company holidays, and a year-end shutdown.
• Paid parental leave and company-sponsored life insurance plus short- and long-term disability coverage.
• HMO and Premium PPO health options; learning and development reimbursement opportunities.
• Compensation includes salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities.

Hiring process

• Interview process evaluates job level (T04–T05) for the pay range.
• Role assessment focuses on CNC machining expertise, troubleshooting, and leadership on the shop floor.