CNC Programmer

Responsibilities

• Develop CNC programs for mills and lathes using CAM software (ESPRIT EDGE and/or Fusion 360).
• Translate CAD models and engineering drawings into efficient, repeatable toolpaths and setups.
• Select appropriate tooling, feeds, speeds, and work-holding strategies for a range of materials including stainless steel, nickel alloy and Graphite.
• Partner with machinists to debug and refine programs at the machine; troubleshoot cycle time and quality issues.
• Provide design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback to engineering during part design.
• Maintain and organize program libraries, post-processors, and documentation.
• Support first-article inspection and process validation for new parts.

Requirements

• Proficiency with CAM software (ESPRIT EDGE, Fusion 360, or similar) for mills and/or lathes.
• Strong ability to read and work from complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and CAD models.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup manufacturing environment with evolving processes.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with machinists and engineering.

Preferred

• 5-axis programming experience.
• Experience setting up In-Machine Probing to verify parts without removing parts
• Experience with Automation and lights out programming

Experience programming Graphite Material or similar abrasive material

• Hands-on machining experience (able to run/debug programs at the machine).
• Experience standing up CNC programs and processes for a new manufacturing line.

The Team

As part of the Manufacturing organization, the Machine Shop manufactures precision components that meet exacting engineering and quality standards. The team supports rapid development, prototyping, and production through advanced machining capabilities.

The Role

Valar Atomics is looking for a CNC Programmer to develop and optimize CNC programs for precision components used in our modular nuclear reactor systems. You will translate engineering drawings and CAD models into efficient, repeatable toolpaths, working closely with machinists and engineering to hit tight tolerances on a wide range of materials. This role has high ownership over process and directly shapes how our shop turns designs into hardware.

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of CNC programming experience in a manufacturing, aerospace, or precision machining environment.
• Solid understanding of machining fundamentals, tooling, and material properties.
• Experience programming for tight-tolerance parts (ASME Y14.5, aerospace or nuclear-grade specs preferred).

Competitive base salary

Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company

Comprehensive medical benefits

Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite

Generous PPE stipend

High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy

Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement

• Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
• The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Salary

• $40
• $60 USD