Join Baxter Aerospace and shape the future of firefighting with our Dragonfly autonomous aircraft, a groundbreaking vertical takeoff platform designed to clear the air—literally. Our mission is to combat wildfires with innovative, scalable technology, delivering real-time data and paving the way for autonomous water-dropping solutions that protect lives and landscapes.
ABOUT OUR COMPANY:
At Baxter Aerospace, we are building a new way to fight forest fires in a digitally connected world. We are known for our innovation, precision, and commitment to quality. We foster a collaborative and fast-paced environment where excellence is both expected and rewarded.
We are looking for top-tier team members to join our mission in advancing satellite communication equipment used for critical missions like aerial firefighting, camera data transmission from aircraft, and deployed team coordination.
About the Role
Baxter Aerospace is seeking a CNC Programmer to support the production of precision aerospace components used in autonomous aircraft systems. This is an on-site position at our St. George, Utah facility.
This role requires a mid-to-expert level programmer who can own programming strategy, support setup and prove-out, and contribute to long-term process development. This is not a CAM-only role. This position requires technical depth, hands-on involvement, and leadership potential.
Key Responsibilities
CNC Programming
• Develop and optimize CNC programs using Mastercam
• Program 3-axis and 5-axis milling operations
• Program lathe and mill-turn platforms
• Interpret complex aerospace drawings and GD&T
• Manage multi-datum profile tolerances and tolerance stack-ups
• Simulate, verify, and support machine-side prove-out
• Simulate NC Files using CIMCO Simulation
Production & Process Development
• Improve cycle times and machining efficiency
• Assist with fixture design and work holding strategy
• Participate in tooling selection and vendor evaluation
• Optimize feeds, speeds, and machine parameters
• Develop and refine SOPs for repeatable production
• Provide manufacturability input during quoting
• Help transition R&D parts into scalable production
Technical Leadership
• Mentor junior machinists and technical school graduates
• Support continuous improvement initiatives
• Help establish programming standards and best practices
Qualifications
• Strong experience with Mastercam (milling & turning)
• Experience programming 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines
• Lathe and/or mill-turn programming experience
• Understanding of GD&T in aerospace applications
• Experience machining to tight tolerances
• Ability to support setup and prove out programs on the machine
• Strong problem-solving and process improvement mindset
Preferred: Aerospace manufacturing experience or technical degree/certification
Materials & Environment
Stainless steel, tool steel, 6061-T6 and 7075 aluminum, Delrin, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. Mix of one-off R&D components and repeatable serial production.
What Excellence Looks Like in This Role
• Reduce cycle times while maintaining aerospace quality standards
• Improve setup consistency through smarter fixture and datum strategy
• Contribute to standardized, repeatable machining processes
• Identify tooling improvements that increase efficiency and surface finish
• Demonstrate ownership and leadership within the machining team
Excellence in this role means thinking like a process owner — not just a programmer.
Requirements
• Must be a U.S. Person (ITAR compliant)
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Willing to work on-site in St. George, Utah
• Willing to relocate if not local (relocation assistance available)
Compensation & Benefits
Full-Time | Monday–Friday
Overtime Available
Compensation Range: $30 – $45 per hour (based on experience and capability)
Medical, Dental, Vision
Overtime Pay
Advancement Opportunities
Relocation Assistance (if applicable)