CNC Machinist Internship – Early Career Opportunity
On-site Palo Alto, CA + Day Shift + $21 to $26/hour
Build Precision Components That Support Critical Technologies
At Microwave Power Products (MPP), we manufacture precision electronic components and subsystems used in aerospace, defense, medical, scientific, and communications applications around the world.
We are looking for an early career CNC Machinist who is eager to grow their hands-on machining skills in a high-precision manufacturing environment. This is a great opportunity for someone coming out of a machining, manufacturing, or CNC program and wants to learn from experienced machinists while working on real production hardware.
If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and learning advanced machining processes, we want to hear from you.
INTERNSHIP SUMMARY
Over the course of approximately 3–6 months, you’ll support manufacturing operations by owning a hands-on machining process development project tied directly to MPP’s Klystron and Coupled Cavity Tube product lines. You’ll work closely with experienced machinists, manufacturing engineers, and production teams to help bring machining capabilities in-house for critical components. This role is designed for someone early in their machining career who is motivated to learn, grow, and develop into a highly skilled machinist.
YOU WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR (Responsibilities)
Main Capstone Project — In-House Machining Process Development
You will learn the manufacturing requirements and specifications for production components and support the setup and operation of CNC machining equipment alongside experienced machinists. You’ll assist with CAM programming, workflow development, tooling selection, and machining sequence definition to establish a repeatable process. Work to improve cycle time, consistency, and process flow while supporting inspection and verification of machined parts. Create clear setup instructions and process documentation to enable future production and ensure maintainable manufacturing practices.
Machine Shop Collaboration & Technical Development
- Support machinists in day-to-day operation of CNC mills, lathes, and manual machining equipment
- Work from engineering drawings, sketches, and written work instructions to execute assigned tasks
- Perform machining, finishing, and secondary operations while maintaining quality and dimensional standards
- Use calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other inspection tools to verify part accuracy
- Assist with machine setup, tooling changes, and material preparation to support production flow
- Learn CAM programming fundamentals while observing and contributing to workflow improvements
- Maintain safe, organized work practices in a production machining environment
- Collaborate with machinists, engineers, and production teams to resolve manufacturing issues
YOU MIGHT BE A GOOD FIT FOR THIS JOB IF YOU HAVE (Preferred Qualifications)
- High School Diploma or GED required; completion of a machining, CNC, or manufacturing program strongly preferred
- Exposure to Haas CNC mills, manual machining, or similar equipment through school, internships, or work experience preferred
- Familiarity with Mastercam or similar CAM programming software preferred
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and basic GD&T concepts
- Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and willingness to learn in a hands-on manufacturing environment
- Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs.
WHAT WE OFFER
Pay Range - $21 - $26 / hour
- Mentorship from experienced machinists and a defined project deliverable to present at the end of your term
- Select perks like commuter benefits within the Stanford Research Park, snack subsidy, and 401K.
OUR WORKPLACE COMMITMENT
We value the unique and diverse skills, qualities, and backgrounds that each employee brings to MPP, and we respect each employee as an integral member of our growing team. MPP is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all current and prospective employees, as well as to promoting a culture of inclusion and respect for everyone.
MPP is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
WHY JOIN MPP?
- Learn from experienced machinists and manufacturing professionals
- Work on real products used in aerospace, defense, and scientific applications
- Hands-on growth opportunity in a high-precision manufacturing environment
- Exposure to CNC machining, manual machining, inspection, and process improvement
- Stable company with long-term growth opportunities
- Collaborative team environment where your work has visible impact
Skills Required
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of a machining, CNC, or manufacturing program
- Exposure to Haas CNC mills, manual machining, or similar equipment through school, internships, or work experience
- Familiarity with Mastercam or similar CAM programming software
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and basic GD&T concepts
- Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and willingness to learn in a hands-on manufacturing environment
- Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs.
What We Do
Microwave Power Products (MPP), formerly the MPP Division of Communications & Power Industries, is a global manufacturer of electronic components and subsystems primarily serving aerospace and defense markets. The company designs and manufactures radio-frequency and microwave products, including gyrotron transmitters, traveling-wave tubes, klystrons, magnetrons, and related power-grid products. MPP was spun out of CPI in June 2024 while continuing the business's technology legacy.
