Machining Operations Coordinator
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About the role
Space Kinetic is a cleared, venture-backed startup focused on addressing urgent national security priorities. Our goal is to deliver a suite of asymmetric capabilities for space superiority and missile defense leveraging our proprietary electromechanical deployment system, which enables the rapid deployment of low-cost payloads through space without firing a thruster. Space Kinetic is currently assembling its TRL-5 prototype. Our goal is to leverage this platform to provide the United States with a new tool for securing the space domain & catalyzing the emerging space economy.
Responsibilities
- Identify and pursue external machining opportunities to support machine shop utilization and business growth
- Prepare machining quotes, estimates, and written bid submissions for prospective and existing customers
- Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout quoting, scheduling, production, and delivery activities
- Coordinate internal machining schedules to ensure machines are efficiently utilized and production deadlines are met
- Balance external customer work with internal Space Kinetic manufacturing priorities and schedules
- Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, operations, and supply chain teams to prioritize jobs and resolve scheduling conflicts
- Coordinate with third-party suppliers and service providers including heat treat, grinding, coatings, raw material vendors, and specialty processing vendors
- Coordinate outside technician or contract machining support as needed
- Track outsourced parts, supplier schedules, and critical-path items to ensure timely delivery
- Assist with production tracking, workflow management, and schedule reporting
- Support ERP/MRP updates, job tracking, and manufacturing documentation management
- Participate in production and operations meetings and provide status updates on active work and supplier coordination
- Help identify bottlenecks, production risks, or delays and escalate issues proactively
Requirements
- High school Diploma or equivalent
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, machining coordination, production scheduling, estimating, or related field
- Strong understanding of machining and manufacturing environments
- Experience coordinating with machine shops, vendors, suppliers, or manufacturing service providers
- Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills
- Ability to manage shifting priorities and multiple active jobs simultaneously
- Comfortable reading basic engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation
- Experience preparing quotes, estimates, or customer proposals preferred
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and production tracking systems
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced startup environment
- Preferred Skills & Experience
- Experience with 5-axis machining and/or mill-turn equipment
- Prototype or short-run machining experience
- G-code editing and troubleshooting
- Mastercam or CAM exposure a plus
- Experience with a variety of materials (aluminum, stainless, titanium, etc.)
- Strong understanding of tooling, feeds/speeds, and workholding
- Ability to work independently in a fast-moving shop environment
- Physical & Work Environment
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing industries
- Familiarity with CNC machining processes and manufacturing terminology
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems
- Experience supporting rapid prototype or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environments
- Prior experience in customer-facing manufacturing or operations coordination roles
- Overtime or weekend work may be required based on production needs
- On-site role in El Segundo manufacturing facility
- Where You'll Be:
- The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.
Benefits
Additional Information
A New Paradigm For Space Operations.
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