Master Machinist & Modeler

Worker Type Regular Job Description Machinist/Model Maker Job Description: AV is seeking a self-motivated, proactive, and result-oriented Senior Machinist/Model Maker to lead technical execution and support ongoing and future research and development efforts for a dynamic, collaborative group of scientists and engineers. This role directly supports the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Spacecraft Component Technology Branch of the Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL/RJSV) on Kirtland Air Force Base. As a technical authority within the in-house machine shop, the ideal candidate will operate with autonomy, utilizing a comprehensive understanding of advanced manufacturing systems to solve complex, ongoing engineering challenges. The Senior Machinist must possess mastery over both complex CNC and manual equipment, establishing new techniques and determining all tooling/manufacturing operations needed to produce intricate structures, assemblies, and first-of-a-kind models for engineering components, spacecraft structural parts, fairings, etc. Success in this role requires leveraging technical insights to coordinate efforts and resources effectively with internal and external contractors, as well as government subject matter experts. Essential Functions: Systemic Problem Solving: Analyze complex technical data and engineering notes to identify optimal manufacturing solutions, implementing procedures and approaches to complete work assignments. Process Innovation: Establish and refine machining techniques and shop standards to ensure the technical team meets its high-precision R&D objectives. Operational Autonomy: Independently plan the proper sequencing, setup, and execution of complex, multi-stage projects with little to no guidance. Cross-Functional Integration: Utilize insights into how the machine shop integrates with broader engineering and research divisions to coordinate shared resources, optimize workflows, and achieve project milestones. Quality Assurance & Methodology: Oversee and implement measurement, testing, and documentation procedures to evaluate completed units, ensure strict conformance to specifications, and establish corrective rework methodologies for complex defects. Shop Stewardship: Take full ownership of the shop environment, including developing and maintaining compliant processes for hazardous material handling, waste management, and preventative maintenance for advanced workstations. Required Education and Experience: A minimum of 7 years of related experience in a high-precision machining or R&D prototyping environment. Comprehensive, master-level understanding of a wide range of precision tooling, systems, and cutting equipment (e.g., multi-axis CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual lathes, drill presses). Proven ability to work within an Integrated Product Team (IPT) framework, providing expert technical consultation to designers and engineers to improve part manufacturability under deadlines. Advanced proficiency in modeling/CAD/CAM software (such as Mastercam, SOLIDWORKS, etc.) alongside standard enterprise office tools. Formal certification or advanced technical training in machine tool technologies. A U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Department of Defense Security Clearance. Preferred Education and Experience: Associate degree in Machine Tool Technology or a related technical discipline. Demonstrated confidence and expertise in providing data-driven feedback to aerospace engineers to optimize first-of-a-kind part designs and structural outcomes. Ability to manage a diverse, concurrent workload, shifting technical priorities dynamically across multiple projects without sacrificing accuracy or safety. Proven track record of managing high-value material inventories and anticipating tool/part replenishment cycles to prevent R&D downtime. Clearance Level Secret The salary range for this role is: $68,000 - $103,750 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability obtain a clearance is desired.