Technician III, CNC Machinist (R3477)

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent, autonomous systems. Its products include Hivemind Enterprise—EdgeOS, Pilot, Commander, and Forge—as well as V-BAT and Sentient Vision Systems (wide-area motion imaging software). With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., Abu Dhabi (UAE), Kyiv (Ukraine), and Melbourne (Australia), Shield AI’s technology actively supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide.  For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.    

Job Description:

The Level III CNC Machinist is an expert in setting up, programming, operating, and troubleshooting CNC machines with minimal supervision. This role requires advanced technical skills, including interpreting complex blueprints, programming G-code at the machine, and optimizing machining processes for efficiency and quality. The Level III Machinist mentors junior machinists, ensures product quality through precision measurements, and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives.

• Proof out CNC programs at the machine.
• Set up and operate CNC mills, lathes, and/or multi-axis machines with minimal instruction.
• Select appropriate tooling, fixturing, and materials for each job.
• Perform first-article inspections and make necessary adjustments to ensure parts meet specifications.
• Operate machines to produce parts to tight tolerances, often ±0.0005” or tighter.
• Troubleshoot and resolve machine, program, or tooling issues independently.
• Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T symbols, and specifications.
• Use a wide variety of precision measuring tools (micrometers, height gauges, indicators, etc.).
• Document inspections and production information accurately.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and assist in preventive maintenance schedules.
• Follow all company safety protocols and contribute to a safe work environment.

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or associate degree preferred.
• Minimum 5–7 years CNC machining experience, including setup.
• Proficiency with G-codes, M-codes.
• Strong knowledge of GD&T, blueprint reading, and shop math (including trigonometry).
• Ability to work with a variety of materials including stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, and plastics.
• Experience with 3, 4, and 5-axis machines is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.
• Experience operating advanced CNC technologies such as 5 axis Mills and/or Y axis Live Tooling Lathes.
• Prior experience with Fanuc and/or Seimens Controls.

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Full-time regular employee offer package:

Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

Temporary employee offer package:

Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)

Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.

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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.