Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.  
 
You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country. 

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a CNC Machinist to join our team, contributing to prototyping, custom part creation, and small production runs. The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and will play a pivotal role in creating custom parts in support of product creation and sustainment as we transition products from concept into mass production. 

What You’ll Do 

• Operate and maintain CNC machines, performing calibration٫ cleaning, conducting tests to check the operation٫ and other activities on a regular basis. 

• Monitor, maintain and control the movements of CNC equipment through CNC machine programming.  

• Read, interpret, and convert technical design files into finished products using CNC machine programming codes. 

• Work with engineering using technical design files, software and verbal communication to develop models, prototypes, and parts for production. 

• Fabricate, fit, assemble, modify, troubleshoot, and repair parts and fixtures using various machine tools. 

• Use precision measuring tools, such as calipers, micrometers, and optical comparators to inspect and verify parts for any machine-related mistakes or flaws. 

• Collaborate with the engineering team to suggest design enhancements. 

• Work with a team and independently with minimal supervision. 

• Maintains a safe and clean workstation. 

• Perform other duties as required. 

Requirements  

• Hands-on machining experience. 

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to understand technical drawings and specifications. 

• Experience working with CNC mill equipment. 

• Solid knowledge of machine shop & CNC techniques. 

• Familiarity with precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and similar instruments. 

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and translate them into finished parts. 

• Strong analytical skills with great attention to detail. 

• Strong teamwork and communication skills. 

• Reliability and professionalism — you show up, follow through, and take ownership of your work. 

• Willingness to work a non-traditional schedule, outside of standard first shift (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday), approximately 50% of the time. 

• Growth mindset — eager to develop new skills and take on increasing responsibility over time. 

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical degree will be a bonus. 

• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.  

Preferred 

• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or similar CAD software.  

• 4+ years of experience as a CNC Machine Operator or in a related machining role. 

• Experience with CNC programming (G-code or similar). 

Physical Requirements  
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine shop equipment as well as standard office equipment.  

Work Environment 

This position typically operates in a standard manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard machine shop and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. This role is requires availability outside of traditional first shift hours (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday), with the majority of hours falling in the evenings, early mornings, or weekends. Candidates must be available and comfortable working a non-standard schedule on a consistent basis.  
 

Benefits 

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include: 

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company. 

• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match. 

• Paid Parental Leave. 

• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation. 

• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location. 

• Employer provided life insurance. 

• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP). 

• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.  

EEO Statement 

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.