Machining Operations Coordinator

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are:

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You’ll Do:

We are seeking a highly organized and driven Machining Operations Coordinator to support both internal manufacturing operations and external machining business opportunities. This role will be responsible for coordinating machine shop workflow, managing production scheduling, supporting outside customer machining work, preparing quotes and bids, and coordinating third-party vendors and services. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and capable of balancing customer needs, production priorities, and operational deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

Identify and pursue external machining opportunities to support machine shop utilization and business growth

Prepare machining quotes, estimates, and written bid submissions for prospective and existing customers

Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout quoting, scheduling, production, and delivery activities

Coordinate internal machining schedules to ensure machines are efficiently utilized and production deadlines are met

Balance external customer work with internal Space Kinetic manufacturing priorities and schedules

Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, operations, and supply chain teams to prioritize jobs and resolve scheduling conflicts

Coordinate with third-party suppliers and service providers including heat treat, grinding, coatings, raw material vendors, and specialty processing vendors

Coordinate outside technician or contract machining support as needed

Track outsourced parts, supplier schedules, and critical-path items to ensure timely delivery

Assist with production tracking, workflow management, and schedule reporting

Support ERP/MRP updates, job tracking, and manufacturing documentation management

Participate in production and operations meetings and provide status updates on active work and supplier coordination

Help identify bottlenecks, production risks, or delays and escalate issues proactively

Basic Qualifications

High school Diploma or equivalent

5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, machining coordination, production scheduling, estimating, or related field

Strong understanding of machining and manufacturing environments

Experience coordinating with machine shops, vendors, suppliers, or manufacturing service providers

Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills

Ability to manage shifting priorities and multiple active jobs simultaneously

Comfortable reading basic engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation

Experience preparing quotes, estimates, or customer proposals preferred

Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and production tracking systems

Ability to work independently in a fast-paced startup environment

Preferred Skills Experience

Experience with 5-axis machining and/or mill-turn equipment

Prototype or short-run machining experience

G-code editing and troubleshooting

Mastercam or CAM exposure a plus

Experience with a variety of materials (aluminum, stainless, titanium, etc.)

Strong understanding of tooling, feeds/speeds, and workholding

Ability to work independently in a fast-moving shop environment

Physical Work Environment

Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing industries

Familiarity with CNC machining processes and manufacturing terminology

Experience with ERP/MRP systems

Experience supporting rapid prototype or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environments

Prior experience in customer-facing manufacturing or operations coordination roles

Overtime or weekend work may be required based on production needs

On-site role in El Segundo manufacturing facility

Where You’ll…