Job Overview
To build highly automated, long-endurance UAV platforms capable of operating in the most demanding environments to support defense, security, infrastructure monitoring, disaster response, and other critical missions.
Company Culture
Skyeton fosters a fast-paced, innovation-driven culture focused on collaboration, accountability, and mission execution. Employees are encouraged to take initiative, solve complex technical challenges, and contribute ideas that directly impact product development and operational success. The organization values adaptability, continuous learning, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose in advancing aerospace and defense technology.
Key Responsibilities
CNC Manufacturing Operations
- Design, commission, and operate the Skyeton machining cell, including CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual machining equipment, tooling, and support systems.
- Develop and maintain CNC programs, tooling strategies, setup sheets, tool libraries, and machining documentation.
- Establish machining process controls, quality standards, tool-life management, and shop-floor best practices.
- Lead production of aerospace components, fixtures, tooling, and support equipment.
Equipment Procurement & Commissioning
- Lead machine tool selection, specification, procurement, installation, rigging, and commissioning activities.
- Coordinate machine setup, leveling, qualification, preventive maintenance, and calibration programs.
- Develop long-term machining capacity plans supporting production growth and vertical integration initiatives.
Tooling, Fixtures & Plant Support
- Design and fabricate fixtures, workholding systems, assembly tooling, and inspection fixtures for manufacturing operations.
- Support composite, assembly, testing, and integration teams through tooling and machining expertise.
- Manage tool crib operations, inventory, workholding systems, and cutting tool programs.
Quality & Continuous Improvement
- Partner with Quality to support AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI), metrology, CMM activities, and corrective actions.
- Develop inspection methods, datum strategies, and machining quality standards.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on throughput, quality, cost reduction, and efficiency.
Leadership & Team Development
- Recruit, train, mentor, and develop CNC machinists and machine operators.
- Establish cross-training programs and skill development plans.
- Promote a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Composites, Supply Chain, and Operations teams.
- Support vertical integration initiatives and the transition of outsourced components to in-house manufacturing.
- Provide weekly KPI reporting related to machine utilization, first-pass yield, scrap, rework, tooling costs, and on-time delivery.
Required Qualifications
- 10+ years of aerospace or precision machining experience.
- 5+ years in a hands-on machining leadership role such as CNC Lead, Machine Shop Supervisor, Lead Machinist, or CNC Programmer.
- Strong CAM programming experience using Mastercam, Fusion 360, NX CAM, Esprit, or similar software.
- Experience operating and programming CNC mills, lathes, and multi-axis machining centers.
- Strong understanding of GD&T and ASME Y14.5 standards.
- Experience designing fixtures, workholding systems, and machining processes.
- Experience supporting AS9102 First Article Inspection activities.
- Knowledge of metrology, CMM inspection, and quality control practices.
- Experience commissioning and qualifying new machine tools.
- Must qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR/EAR regulations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience standing up a machine shop or CNC operation from the ground up.
- Haas CNC programming and Haas Next Generation Control experience.
- Aerospace, UAV, or defense manufacturing experience.
- Experience with high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments.
- Experience managing outsourced special processes including anodizing, plating, heat treat, and chem-film.
- Mold repair, tooling maintenance, or fixture-building experience.
- Mechanical assembly, engine testing, or powertrain experience.
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
- Military or Department of Defense program experience.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong hands-on machining and programming expertise.
- Excellent leadership, mentoring, and team development abilities.
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Deep understanding of manufacturing process control and quality systems.
- Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Strong organizational and project-management abilities.
- Builder mentality with a hands-on approach to manufacturing challenges.
- Commitment to safety, quality, FOD prevention, and continuous improvement.
Benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Medical insurance: voluntary health insurance program
- Innovative aerospace and defense technology projects
- Career growth and advancement opportunities
- Competitive salary and employee referral program
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
Work Environment
- Full-time, on-site position in Fayetteville, NC
- Significant time spent in machining and manufacturing environments
- Exposure to machine tools, cutting fluids, metal chips, and industrial noise
- Domestic travel up to 10% for supplier visits, machine runoffs, and operational support
- International travel up to 10% for knowledge transfer and supplier coordination
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work safely around industrial equipment
- On-call availability for production, machine downtime, and first-article support activities
Application Process
Applications will be reviewed as they are received on Indeed.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Skyeton is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
Pay: $50.00 - $60.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- CNC Machinist Lead role: 5 years (Required)
- aerospace or precision machining: 10 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Fayetteville, NC 28303 (Required)
Work Location: In person
