Senior 5-Axis CNC Machinist – Complex, High-Mix Precision Work - Nashua

Nashua, NH

Mission of the Role

This role exists to machine complex, high-precision components using 5-axis CNC equipment for advanced electro-optical and aerospace systems where judgment, setup skill, and craftsmanship matter more than cycle time.

Pay & Benefits 

  • $41–$52/hour, based on demonstrated 5-axis skill
  • Paid overtime available (not expected)
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • PTO + paid holidays
  • Up to $3,000 retention bonus, paid at 30 / 90 / 180 days for machinists who demonstrate strong setup capability, quality, and problem-solving

Why Clear Align
Clear Align builds advanced electro-optical systems supporting aerospace and defense missions where precision matters. Our machinists are trusted professionals, not operators — and our work reflects that standard. If you want challenging 5-axis work, technical respect, and a shop that values craftsmanship over speed, this role is for you.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

In Your First Year You Will (What Success Looks Like)

Within 90 Days

  • Independently set up and run 5-axis CNC mills on complex, short-run parts
  • Interpret advanced prints, including GD&T, datum structures, and critical tolerance features
  • Develop reliable setups, workholding strategies, and tool paths for difficult geometries
  • Collaborate directly with engineering to resolve print or manufacturability issues
  • Consistently deliver parts that meet quality requirements without rework

Within 6 Months

  • Own complete 5-axis machining strategies for the shop’s most challenging components
  • Optimize setups for accuracy, repeatability, and first-pass yield
  • Confidently inspect your own work using appropriate metrology tools
  • Become a go-to machinist for high-complexity, low-volume work 

By 12 Months

  • Be recognized internally as a senior-level 5-axis subject-matter expert
  • Contribute design-for-manufacturability feedback that improves quality and efficiency
  • Support aerospace and defense programs where precision and reliability are mission-critical

How You Know You Are Winning

  • The hardest 5-axis parts come to you and are not outsourced.
  • You design your own fixtures to help optical fabrication team taking their ideas and input
  • Engineering trusts your judgment and asks for input early
  • Parts pass inspection cleanly
  • You’re challenged — and enjoy it

What Makes This Role Different

  • 5-axis  — not 3-axis production work
  • High-mix, low-volume machining collaborating with close knit engineering and manufacturing team
  • Complex multi-face geometry and tight tolerances
  • You own your setups, workholding, and approach
  • Direct access to engineering — no guessing
  • Quality > speed, always
  • Clean, organized shop
  • Meaningful aerospace & defense programs

Position Requirements

Who You Are (Core Strengths & Competencies)

  • Advanced 5-axis CNC setup capability
  • Strong GD&T and print interpretation skills
  • Deep understanding of workholding, fixturing, and tool strategy
  • Problem-solver mindset — not just execution
  • Pride in workmanship and accountability for results

Who Thrives Here

  • Senior 5-axis machinists who like difficult work
  • People bored by production environments
  • Craftspeople who care deeply about accuracy
  • Machinists who want autonomy, respect, and technical challenge