10+ years of CNC programming experience, especially on 5-axis mills
Deep expertise in machining CFRP and advanced composites
Mastery of popular CAM platforms (e.g., Mastercam, Autodesk)
Advanced understanding of machining parameters (feeds/speeds, tool geometry)
Exceptional blueprint reading and GD&T skills
Experience in high-volume aerospace production environments
Responsibilities
Lead the development and deployment of CNC programs for CFRP production
Optimize machining toolpaths for efficiency and quality
Select and qualify advanced tooling for composite machining
Troubleshoot and resolve machining process issues
Drive improvements in cycle-time while ensuring quality standards
Standardize CNC programming practices and documentation
Mentor junior programmers and establish performance benchmarks
Benefits
Opportunity to work on groundbreaking technologies in aerospace
Mentorship and growth opportunities within a specialized field
Involvement in a mission-driven environment with significant real-world impact
Collaborative culture with cross-functional team engagement
Exposure to high-tech manufacturing processes and innovations
Full Job Description
Position Overview
We're scaling aerospace-grade CFRP production and we need an elite 5-Axis CNC programming expert to lead our high-volume, Class-A composite machining. This role is not "average programmer" - it's for a strategic thinker and production optimizer who thrives in a fast-paced aerospace environment, drives standardization, and owns outcomes from CAD-to-finished parts.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead development, validation, and deployment of 5-axis CNC programs for CFRP production parts
Optimize toolpaths for maximum throughput, minimal tool wear, and zero delamination
Select and qualify advanced tooling (PCD/diamond) and fixture systems for composites
Troubleshoot process issues and implement permanent, data-driven solutions
Drive cycle-time improvements while safeguarding dimensional and cosmetic quality
Standardize programming practices, templates, and work instructions
Mentor junior programmers and set programming performance benchmarks
Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Production leadership to meet production targets and yield goals
Qualifications
10+ years CNC programming experience, with at least 5+ years on 5-axis mills
Deep expertise in machining CFRP and advanced composites
Mastery of CAM platforms ( e.g., Mastercam, Autodesk (Inventor and Vault), AutoCAD, Fusion)
Advanced understanding of feeds/speeds, tool geometry, work holding, and multi-axis simulation
Exceptional blueprint reading and GD&T skills
Experience in high-volume, production aerospace environments
Education:
High School Diploma or GED
Experience:
A minimum of 10years proven aerospace composite machining experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Proven and demonstrated experience in machining with ceramic cutting tools, e.g., alumina, silicon carbide
Experience with trimming, drilling, countersinking, and edge finishing of composite structures
Knowledge of dust extraction systems and composite safety protocols
Fixture design and vacuum system design experience
Soft Skills:
Values process control, repeatability, and lean production outcomes
Sees process improvements before problems occur
Mentors team members and elevate shop-wide capabilities
Comfortable setting standards and enforcing compliance
Strong attention to detail and good verbal/written communication skills
Proficient Microsoft Office skills
Physical Requirements
Standing and Walking: Frequently required to stand, walk, and work on foot.
Lifting and Carrying: Must be able to lift, push, pull, or carry objects, often ranging from 20 to 50 pounds.
Manual Dexterity: High level of dexterity required to handle, manipulate, and feel small, precise objects, tools, or machine controls.
Physical Range of Motion: Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing, and reaching with hands and arms.
Physical Stamina: Ability to endure long, 8-12-hour shifts, including working on foot in a shop setting.
This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.
About AST SpaceMobile, Inc.
AST SpaceMobile, Inc. is a telecommunications company that is developing a space-based cellular broadband network. The company's network will provide mobile connectivity to remote and underserved areas around the world. AST SpaceMobile, Inc. was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in New York, New York.
