Ultra Precision Machining Specialist (Diamond Turning)
SpaceX
Redmond, WA, USA
USD 32-50 / hour + Equity
Posted on Oct 15, 2025
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
ULTRA PRECISION MACHINING SPECIALIST (DIAMOND TURNING)
As an Ultra Precision Machining Specialist on the Diamond Turning team, you will be responsible for the manufacturing and development of sub-micron level tolerance diamond turned parts at production volumes. This is a unique and challenging opportunity to use world-class equipment, learn/expand a diamond turning skillset, and work with some of the best and brightest in their fields. The scope of this team is to make the parts that other companies cannot, and to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible to machine.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Following defined work instructions, process controls and maintaining a safe work environment
- Maintaining maximum machine/work center up time by identifying and reporting off nominal issues such as alarms, out of tolerance conditions, and actively maintaining best practices
- Using metrology including CMM’s, optical microscopes and Zygo interferometers
- Changing tools and tooling following defined processes
- Data entry, work tracking and effective communication
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- Experience working in a production environment
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Experience running diamond turning lathes
- Experience with sub-micron tolerance parts and how to handle/inspect them
- CNC Lathe setup experience
- Understanding of optics manufacturing and associated metrology
- Ability to provide feedback and suggest process improvements to production and engineering
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be available for 10 hour shifts. Estimated shift times: 1st shift (6:00AM-4:30PM), 2nd shift (4:00PM to 2:30AM)
- Ability to work all shifts, overtime and weekends as needed
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
- Ability to stand for extended periods - 8 hours min
- Ability to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces
- Ability to work in an environment with repetitive movement, bending or twisting, using hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls, exposure to sounds and noise levels that are distracting
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Ultra Precision Machining Specialist/Level 1: $32.00 - $40.00/hour
Ultra Precision Machining Specialist/Level 1: $32.00 - $40.00/hour
Ultra Precision Machining Specialist /Level 2: $36.00 - $45.00/hour
Ultra Precision Machining Specialist /Level 3: $40.00 - $50.00/hour
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Non-exempt Washington employees are eligible for sick leave in accordance with Washington's Sick Leave policies.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
- To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.