Senior Prototype Machinist / CNC Programmer

Zeta PVT is a growing engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing company in Lorton, VA, minutes from Fort Belvoir. We take parts from concept and CAD to finished hardware for defense and commercial programs. This is a senior, hands-on prototype role for someone truly autonomous: you program and run the machines, take parts from sketch or model to finished hardware, and work at or near an engineering level alongside the owner and our engineers. Our shop runs a manual mill and lathe, a CNC fiber laser, a CNC CO2 laser, a CNC press brake, MIG and TIG welding, and 3D printers, and our next CNC mill purchase will be shaped by the experience you bring. When a design can be made better, lighter, or easier to build, we expect you to say so.

What you'll do:

• Own prototype builds end to end: plan, fixture, machine, fabricate, inspect, and deliver on time from drawings, CAD models, and sketches.

• Program and run CNC equipment (CAM or conversational).

• Set up and operate manual mills and lathes.

• Run our sheet metal side: CNC fiber and CO2 lasers and CNC press brake.

• Inspect your own work with calipers, micrometers, and gauges, and hold tight tolerances without supervision.

• Contribute design and design-for-manufacturability input with the owner and engineers.

• Help select and stand up new shop equipment, starting with our next CNC mill.

What you need:

• 3 or more years of hands-on machining in prototype, R&D, or job-shop work.

• CNC programming proficiency (CAM such as Mastercam or Fusion 360, or strong conversational).

• Skilled on manual mills and lathes.

• Able to read engineering drawings, tolerances, and specifications, and use precision measurement tools.

• Able to work autonomously and meet quick-turn timelines.

• U.S. citizenship required for work.

• Able to lift 30 pounds or more regularly and stand for extended periods.

Nice to have:

• Fabrication beyond machining: welding, sheet metal, fixturing, or assembly.

• CAD experience (SolidWorks, Fusion 360).

• Laser and press brake experience.

• Engineering technician background, technical degree, or machining certifications.

Pay and benefits:

• $35 to $45 per hour, based on experience; top of range negotiable for exceptional depth.

• Full-time, Monday to Friday, day shift; some flexibility.

• Company-paid health insurance for the employee.

• Two weeks paid time off.

How to apply:

Apply through Indeed, or email your resume to [email protected] with the subject Senior Prototype Machinist.

Zeta PVT is an equal opportunity employer.

Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person