Senior Prototype Machinist

<p style="min-height:1.5em">Here at The Exploration Company, we are building spacecrafts for humanity.</p><h2>[<strong>Deutsche Version weiter unten]</strong></h2><p style="min-height:1.5em"></p><h2>Your Mission</h2><p style="min-height:1.5em">At The Exploration Company, we develop, manufacture, and operate Nyx — a modular, reusable orbital spacecraft designed to be refuelled in orbit and transport cargo, with crewed missions potentially planned for the longer term.</p><p style="min-height:1.5em">We’re looking for a hands-on, technically mature professional with an engineering degree or extensive CNC experience to take full ownership of the machining process for space-grade components. You’ll be responsible for CAM programming, machine setup and optimisation, and continuous improvement. You’ll also contribute directly to future investments in machining equipment and tooling.</p><p style="min-height:1.5em">You’ll work on a variety of high-precision parts, including rocket engine components, post-processed metal 3D-printed parts, and critical propulsion subcomponents. You’ll work across a fleet of modern, multi-brand, 5-axis machining centres and CNC lathes.</p><p style="min-height:1.5em">This role offers a high-impact technical position, with opportunities for career growth and increased responsibility.</p><p style="min-height:1.5em">Fluency in English is expected, as our work environment is international.</p><p style="min-height:1.5em"></p><h2>Your Responsibilities</h2><ul style="min-height:1.5em"><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Define and optimise machining strategies, including sequencing, tooling, fixtures, and in-process controls.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Program complex components in HyperMill or equivalent CAM software for 5-axis milling and CNC turning.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Validate parts using multi-brand CNC equipment, ensuring that they meet tolerance and surface-finish requirements.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Manufacture rocket engine components, precision assemblies, propulsion subcomponents, and Inconel structures, including setting workpiece origins and preparing cutting tools.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Perform first-line maintenance to keep machines in good working order.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Analyse and improve toolpaths, reduce cycle times, and stabilise machining quality.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Work with design, quality, and production teams to provide feedback, propose design improvements, and troubleshoot issues.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Lead equipment investment efforts, including specification development, supplier coordination, and commissioning.</p></li></ul><p style="min-height:1.5em"></p><h2>Profile</h2><ul style="min-height:1.5em"><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">An engineering degree or 5+ years of experience as a highly skilled technician in CNC/CAM machining of complex parts.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Expertise in HyperMill or equivalent CAM software and tight-tolerance machining.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Solid knowledge of 5-axis milling and/or precision turning.</p></li><li><p style="min-height:1.5em">Experience working with space or aerospace materials, such as Inconel, titanium