Machinist III in Colorado Springs, Colorado at SARA

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA, Inc. High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative CNC Lathe Machinist to support research and development and rapid prototyping projects activities to transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The CNC Lathe Machinist will work within the Rapid Development Group (RDG) team consisting of other machinists, engineers, and interns.

Position Summary

The CNC Lathe Machinist is responsible for setup, operation, inspection, and troubleshooting of CNC lathes and associated machining equipment. This position supports both prototype and production manufacturing environments, producing high-quality precision components from aluminum, steel, stainless steel, plastics, and other engineering materials. The ideal candidate is a self-driven machinist capable of taking complex parts from drawing release through finished inspection with minimal supervision.

Core Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC lathes utilizing Haas controls and Mastercam software
• Manufacture precision components from engineering drawings, CAD models, sketches, and verbal direction
• Ability to independently perform cradle-to-grave machining of complex parts, including process planning, tooling selection, programming, setup, machining, and inspection
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, specifications, and work instructions
• Optimize machining processes, feeds, and speeds to improve quality, throughput, and cost efficiency
• Perform first-article inspections and in-process inspections to ensure compliance with drawing requirements
• Utilize precision measuring equipment, including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, and other inspection tools
• Maintain and organize cutting tools, fixtures, workholding, and associated tooling
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, quality personnel, and production staff to resolve manufacturing challenges and improve producibility
• Assist in training and mentoring less-experienced machinists and machine operators
• Support prototype development, low-rate production, and production machining activities as required
• Maintain accurate job documentation and machine setup information
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to machining processes, tooling, quality, and shop efficiency
• Perform other duties, assignments, and responsibilities as reasonably assigned by management in support of departmental, programmatic, and organizational objectives

Equipment and Facility Responsibilities

• Perform routine preventative maintenance on CNC equipment and associated tooling
• Coordinate machine service requirements and communicate maintenance concerns to supervision
• Ensure tooling is properly stored, identified, and maintained
• Keep machines, work areas, and shared shop resources clean, organized, and ready for operation
• Follow all company safety procedures and housekeeping standards

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Machining Technology or equivalent technical training and experience
• 6 – 8 years of progressively responsible CNC machining experience
• Demonstrated experience programming, setting up, and operating CNC lathes independently
• Knowledge of Mastercam programming software
• Experience with Haas CNC controls
• Strong understanding of machining principles, tooling selection, workholding methods, and cutting parameters
• Ability to machine complex precision components from aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and plastics
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T
• Experience performing first-article and in-process inspections
• Proficiency with precision measurement equipment and inspection techniques
• Experience cutting, preparing, and handling raw materials for machining operations
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and email
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform work involving standing, walking, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motions

Preferred Qualifications

• 8 – 10 years of relevant experience
• Experience in a prototype, R&D, aerospace, defense, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment
• Experience with SolidWorks CAD software
• Multi-axis lathe experience, including live tooling and sub-spindle operations
• Experience with CNC mills and mill-turn equipment
• Experience working within an ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality management system
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and electronic job travelers
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Demonstrated leadership, mentoring, and problem-solving abilities
• Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience
• Forklift experience

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $26 to $37 (hourly USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.