About the role
Making the Metals Powering the World
Solcoa is building the next generation of American metalmaking, starting with rare earths — the metals of power and motion. We've developed a new chemistry that converts rare earth oxides into high-purity metals — the materials inside every EV, fighter jet, wind turbine, and data center — cleaner, cheaper, and faster than any conventional process. Now we're scaling it to thousands of tonnes of annual production.
The Role — Machinist (CNC & Manual)
Own the machine shop. You'll turn prints and sketches from our engineers into finished parts—same-day when it matters—machining components for reactors, furnaces, fixtures, and prototype hardware that goes straight onto the plant floor. You'll set the standard for precision, throughput, and shop discipline as we scale from pilot plant to production.
What You'll Do
- Machine parts from prints and CAD models on CNC and manual mills and lathes—stainless, carbon steel, aluminum, copper, graphite, and specialty alloys.
- Program, set up, and run CNC jobs (Fusion 360 / Mastercam or similar CAM); select tooling, speeds, and feeds for one-offs and small batches.
- Hold tight tolerances and verify dimensions with calipers, micrometers, gauges, and indicators; document inspection results.
- Turn around quick-turn prototype and repair work for R&D and plant operations—often same day.
- Design and build fixtures, jigs, and tooling that make the whole shop faster.
- Work with engineers on design-for-manufacturability; mark up drawings and feed back improvements.
- Maintain the shop: machine upkeep, tooling inventory, organization, and safety practices for hot work and rotating equipment.
What You Bring
Required
- 3+ years machining experience with proven skill on both CNC and manual mills and lathes.
- Ability to program CNC toolpaths (conversational or CAM) and to read and interpret GD&T on mechanical drawings.
- Experience machining stainless and specialty alloys to tight tolerances.
- Disciplined, reliable execution—on spec, on time, with excellent documentation.
- Comfort working independently in a fast-paced, hardware-first environment.
- Availability to start soon.
Preferred
- Experience supporting R&D or prototype shops where requirements change daily.
- TIG welding and general fabrication ability.
- Experience with graphite, refractory metals, or vacuum/furnace components.
- CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) for simple part and fixture design.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Equity (stock options)
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Company-provided lunch daily
- Visa sponsorship available if needed