Staff Toolmaker / Laser Tracker Operator at Castelion in Torrance, CA

Why Castelion, Why Now

Castelion is moving incredibly fast to develop and deliver advanced defense systems at a time when execution matters more than ever. We believe focus, ownership, and excellence are decisive advantages - and we're building a world-class team to turn bold ideas into real capability.

This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage, where you'll have significant ownership, collaborate with exceptional teammates, and make a direct, measurable impact on our mission and the future of the company - regardless of your function.

Staff Toolmaker / Laser Tracker Operator

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Staff Toolmaker / Laser Tracker Operator to run laser tracking and precision tooling operations in support of large-scale aerospace structures. This role combines hands-on measurement expertise with process ownership, cross-functional leadership, responsibility for inspection strategy, scheduling, and quality outcomes from prototype through flight hardware.

The ideal candidate has deep, hands-on mastery of laser trackers and Verisurf (or equivalent model-based software), a proven track record leading complex builds, and the ability to translate measurement data into clear direction for fabrication, machining, assembly, and engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Run specific jobs related to laser tracking, including Verisurf (or equivalent) license management, tracker scheduling, remote site support, and coordination across facilities.

• Collect geometric data using laser trackers (Leica, Faro, API, and similar) through model-based software; establish, apply, and install reference systems both on and off the part.

• Use advanced GD&T knowledge to interpret blueprints at all assembly levels and define appropriate datum and alignment strategies.

• Analyze collected data and provide clear technical direction for remaining tooling, welding, machining, and assembly operations.

• Integrate process monitoring with fabrication processes; account for free states, temperature swings, weld shrinkage, and other environmental effects on large structures.

• Lead complex build efforts from blueprint through final installation, including precision drilling/dowelling, epoxy pours, rigging, and large-scale assembly workflows.

• Communicate effectively with fabricators, machinists, assemblers, engineers, and other stakeholders; influence cross-functional decisions and resolve measurement-related issues.

• Drive continuous improvement by redesigning tooling and inspection strategies to reduce rework and improve first-time quality.

• Ensure all operations are performed safely and meet aerospace quality standards; maintain an orderly, high-utility work environment.

• Travel between sites as needed to support builds, inspections, and remote operations.

Minimum Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in toolmaking, laser tracking, or aerospace manufacturing.

• Advanced proficiency in Verisurf inspection software (or equivalent), including model manipulation, feature reporting, alignment strategies, and reference system establishment.

• Deep hands-on experience with Leica, Faro, and/or API laser trackers, including supporting hardware (arms, probes, targets, etc.).

• Strong GD&T knowledge and ability to apply it to complex aerospace structures.

• Proven track record leading complex build efforts from blueprint to final installation.

• Experience with rigging, epoxy pours, precision drilling/dowelling, and large-scale assembly workflows.

• Demonstrated ability to lead technical work and influence cross-functional stakeholders.

• Willingness to travel between sites as needed.

• High school diploma or equivalency; relevant technical experience required in lieu of higher education.

Castelion offers a generous benefits package. Please refer to the bottom of our Careers page for more details.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

This position may require access to classified information or restricted U.S. Government sites, systems, or information, as determined by the Company and/or applicable U.S. Government requirements. If the position is so designated, your employment in the role may be contingent upon your ability to obtain and maintain the required U.S. Government security clearance or other government authorization, and to satisfy any citizenship or other eligibility requirements imposed by applicable law, regulation, executive order, or government contract requirements. You will be notified if and when such requirements apply.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Castelion is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Castelion is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and hiring process. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, participate in the interview process, or otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact hr@castelion.com. Requests for accommodation will be considered on an individual basis and handled in accordance with applicable law.

Castelion is committed to fostering a workplace where employment decisions are based on qualifications, business needs, and the ability to perform the essential functions of the role, with or without reasonable accommodation.

EAR/ITAR Requirements

This position requires access to export-controlled information, and as such, employment (or hiring of a contractor) is contingent upon the candidate’s ability to access all applicable export-controlled information without additional export licensing being required by the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls.