CNC Machinist / Machine Operator

Beehive Industries is dedicated to Powering American Defense by revolutionizing the design, development, and delivery of jet propulsion systems to support the warfighter. Through the integration of additive manufacturing, the company aims to meet the growing and urgent needs for unmanned aerial defense by dramatically improving a jet engine’s speed to market, fuel efficiency, and cost.  

Founded in 2020, the company is headquartered in Centennial, Colorado, with additional facilities in Knoxville, Tennessee, Loveland Ohio, and Mount Vernon, Ohio. Beehive is committed to grow and advance the defense industrial base while manufacturing exclusively in the USA. This role will be located at our Centennial, Colorado facility.

Role Overview

Beehive Industries is searching for a motivated individual to join our manufacturing team as an Entry-Level CNC Machinist / Machine Operator. This position is ideal for someone looking to begin or advance their career in precision manufacturing while gaining hands-on experience with advanced CNC machining technology.

The successful candidate will support the production of complex aerospace components, including additively manufactured metal hardware used in next-generation jet propulsion systems. Working alongside experienced machinists and manufacturing engineers, this individual will develop technical skills in CNC machine operation, basic setups, inspection, and manufacturing processes while contributing to a safe, high-quality, and efficient production environment.

What You'll Do...

• Operate 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machining centers following established work instructions and approved machining programs.

• Load and unload parts, fixtures, and tooling while following established safety and quality procedures.

• Assist experienced machinists with machine setups, tooling changes, and work holding preparation.

• Perform basic dimensional inspections using hand measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.

• Learn to interpret engineering drawings, basic GD&T requirements, and manufacturing work instructions.

• Monitor machining operations and identify potential issues related to tooling, part quality, or machine performance.

• Support machining activities involving metal 3D-printed aerospace components and other precision hardware.

• Perform routine machine cleaning, coolant checks, and basic preventative maintenance.

• Maintain accurate production records, inspection results, and manufacturing documentation.

• Follow established quality procedures and immediately communicate nonconforming conditions to appropriate personnel.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment in accordance with established 5S principles.

• Follow all Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) requirements and identify potential workplace hazards.

• Work collaboratively with machinists, manufacturing engineers, quality personnel, and production leadership to support manufacturing objectives.

• Participate in continuous improvement activities focused on safety, quality, delivery, and efficiency.

• Demonstrate a willingness to learn new equipment, machining techniques, and manufacturing technologies.

You Have...

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• 0–2 years of experience in manufacturing, machining, or a related technical environment.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and an interest in CNC machining and precision manufacturing.

• Ability to follow written work instructions, technical procedures, and verbal directions.

• Basic understanding of measurement tools or a willingness to learn.

• Basic computer skills and the ability to enter production information into digital systems.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

• Good problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.

• Willingness to learn and develop new technical skills through hands-on training.

• Commitment to workplace safety and maintaining an organized work environment.

• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government-issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for the required clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of a vocational, trade school, or technical training program related to machining or manufacturing.

• Previous experience operating CNC mills, lathes, or other manufacturing equipment.

• Familiarity with basic machining concepts, cutting tools, and workholding methods.

• Experience reading engineering drawings or using basic inspection equipment.

• Familiarity with multi-axis CNC equipment, including OKUMA or Makino machines.

• Exposure to aerospace manufacturing or quality management systems such as AS9100 or ISO 9001.

• Experience working with stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, or nickel-based alloys.

Physical Requirements

These requirements are based on the typical tasks associated with the position and are critical for ensuring safety, productivity, and job performance. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Please note that this role requires working in proximity to equipment that may interfere with medical devices such as pacemakers or insulin pumps. If you have concerns about this, please reach out to discuss potential accommodation.

• Remain in a standing or sitting stationary position for 3–4 hours per day (1–2 hours at one time). 

• Move about 3–4 hours per day (1–2 hours at one time).

• Frequently lift or carry objects between 26–45 pounds.

• Frequently push or pull objects between 26–45 pounds.

• Frequently reach at or below shoulder level, and occasionally reach overhead.

• Frequently use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls.

• Occasionally bend, stoop, or twist.

• Occasionally crouch, kneel, and squat.

• Frequently use a keyboard.

• Effectively communicate in person and via telephone or other electronic devices.

If this sounds like you, please submit an application with your resume. This could be the opportunity you are looking for to expand your skills, contribute to a winning team, and work with talented people who love what they do and take pride in our mission. 

In compliance with Colorado’s Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, the salary range for this position is $26,00-$35.50 per hour.  Please note that wage information is a general guideline only, and we will consider factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and market conditions when extending an offer.  

Beehive Industries offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes group Medical, Dental, Life, and Short and Long-Term disability coverage from day one. We also offer a generous 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a Company match. Every role at Beehive Industries is bonus eligible and will also receive equity in the company.

Beehive Industries is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.