Prototype Machinist

Nikon AM Synergy
Long Beach, CA

Reports to: Associate Director of Operations

Classification/Status: Non-Exempt / Full-Time

Location: Nikon AM Technology Center


Company Overview: Operating from the modern Nikon AM Technology Center in Long Beach, Nikon AM Synergy is a provider of holistic solutions in additive manufacturing, R&D, and engineering. Our mission is to accelerate customer adoption and scaling of metal AM for cutting-edge applications, with a particular focus on the defense, aerospace, and energy sectors. This will be through both Nikon SLM Solutions’ industry-leading laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) technology enhanced by premier metallurgy and metrology capabilities. Nikon AM Synergy offers specialized capabilities within an ultra-secure environment, meeting the stringent security requirements of defense and aerospace clients. These capabilities are bolstered by our collaborative and hands-on approach, as well as technical and business development teams with extensive industry knowledge and expertise, consistently delivering results for our strategic customers.


Prototype Machinist: The Prototype Machinist is responsible for programming and operating machinery to produce parts that conform to blueprints, adhering to GD&T specifications. This role involves working 3–5 axis machines, Wire EDM, as well as other pneumatic abrasive tools. A keen eye for detail and strong mechanical aptitude are essential. This position reports directly to the Associate Director of Operations.


Job Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Creates machining programs.
  • Complete set-ups.
  • Machine parts to conforming tolerances
  • Perform and maintain accurate in-process quality inspections and records.
  • Identify and recommend process improvements to reduce part quality variation.
  • Input data into visual management forms and convey results to management.
  • Continuously improve processes and procedures to eliminate waste.
  • Set up, operate, and perform daily maintenance on CNC equipment.
  • Assist in the deburring of parts.


Required Skills:

  • Ability to read and understand blueprints to meet specified dimensions (GD&T).
  • Understanding of machine tool accuracies, fixture offsets, and tool offsets.
  • Knowledge of cutting tool feeds, speeds, and tool life for aerospace hard turning or milling.
  • Proficient in using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, precision scales).
  • Ability to maintain close tolerances (within 0.001”) for IDs, ODs, roundness, concentricity, and squareness.
  • General knowledge and skill in using wire EDM and bandsaws.
  • Proficient with hand, power, and pneumatic tools (pliers, screwdrivers, hammers, punches, chisels, saws, clamps, drills, impact hammers, abrasives, grinders, and rotary drills).
  • Ability to communicate effectively with employees and management.


Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience with Siemens NX CAM
  • Experience running DMG Mori equipment including DMU60, and DMC125 FD with Siemens 840D Control
  • Experience with set-up and machining Additive Manufacturing (metal-LPBF) parts
  • Mechanical Design Modeling
  • Lean Manufacturing including 6S


Education / Experience / General Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in operation setup on CNC machines (required).
  • Good vision abilities, including close vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus (required).
  • Ability to lift a maximum of 50 lbs. (over 25 lbs. with assistance) (required).
  • REQUIRED: Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET Security Clearance as required for this position. Ongoing employment is contingent upon maintaining the clearance. To obtain a SECRET Security Clearance US Citizenship is required


Benefits Package: We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, as well as Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Additional voluntary and supplemental benefits include Voluntary Life & AD&D, Pet Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Hospital Confinement coverage. Employees also have access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA) and a Health Savings Account (HSA), where applicable.


Equal Employment Opportunity: Nikon AM Synergy Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.


Privacy Notice and Consent: Under the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (“CCPA”) and other applicable privacy regulations, Nikon AM Synergy Inc. (NAMS) is required to disclose whenever personal information is collected from you in certain contexts, such as to provide or receive a product or service. If you have a visual disability, you may be able to use a screen reader or other tools to review the contents of this notice. By clicking “apply,” you authorize and give your consent for NAMS to use the personal information you provided for future communications related to the recruitment and hiring process, both for current and future job openings (“Purpose”). You further certify that you are over 18 years of age. NAMS may be required to provide your contact information to third parties in order to perform the above Purpose. However, NAMS does not sell, rent, or lease your personal information to third parties.

// // //