CNC Machinist (Programmer)

Location: Ottawa, Ontario (on-site)
Employment type: Full-time
Salary range: $60,000 – $100,000 CAD per year (full-time basis)
Overtime: Paid after 8 hours per day
Vacancy disclosure: This posting is for an existing vacancy.

About Q-Block Computing: Q-Block Computing builds quantum systems that operate in the real world. The company develops quantum timing, quantum-secure communications, and quantum computing platforms engineered for the performance, reliability, and environmental resilience that mission-critical applications demand — systems designed to be deployed, maintained, and trusted by operators who cannot afford ambiguity about whether the technology works.

The long-term vision is deeper than any single platform. Q-Block is pursuing a mission to decode Nature's foundational model — to build instruments of sufficient precision and coherence that they become tools for understanding the physical universe at its most fundamental level. Commercialization and science reinforce each other by design.

About this role: The CNC Machinist (Programmer) will support prototype development and commercialization activities across Q-Block's existing product lines from the company's Alberta node. The role combines CAM programming, CNC setup and operation, and hands-on machining of precision parts for quantum hardware — with a strong emphasis on rapid iteration between CAD model and finished part.

The successful candidate is a skilled machinist-programmer who takes pride in clean toolpaths, tight tolerances, and a well-kept shop. They work comfortably between SolidWorks, CAM software, and the machine, read drawings carefully, and bring a problem-solving mindset to the materials and geometries that quantum hardware requires. The role reports to senior leadership and collaborates closely with the engineering team on design-for-manufacturability.

Responsibilities

• Perform CNC machining for rapid prototyping and short-run production using advanced precision equipment.
• Generate and modify CAD drawings in SolidWorks to support prototype development and design iterations.
• Develop CAM programs using SolidCAM, Fusion 360, SolidWorks CAM, or comparable tools for efficient, reliable toolpath generation.
• Program, set up, and operate a Datron Neo 2+ CNC mill for high-precision rapid prototyping applications.
• Machine precision parts to tight tolerances across a range of materials, including aluminum alloys, stainless steels, titanium, copper, brass, and, where applicable, ceramics and optical-grade materials.
• Design fixtures and work-holding solutions for precision prototyping and small-batch production.
• Perform in-process and final inspection of machined parts using appropriate metrology tools; maintain inspection records.
• Support the build-out and ongoing operation of Q-Block's prototyping machine shop, including equipment setup, tooling management, and SOP development.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on design-for-manufacturability reviews, providing practical feedback that improves part quality, yield, and cost.
• Maintain a clean, organized, safe shop; perform general shop maintenance and contribute to continuous improvement of shop practices.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous learning, craftsmanship, and honest technical discussion.

Required qualifications

• Machinist Trade Certification, 4th year Apprentice, or Machinist Red Seal Endorsement.
• Minimum of 4 years of CNC experience with HAAS, Fanuc, or comparable milling and lathe machines (G-code).
• Proficiency in CAD software, including SolidWorks, for drawing generation and modification.
• Advanced CAM programming skills using SolidCAM, MasterCAM, Fusion 360, SolidWorks CAM, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated ability to machine parts to tight tolerances and to properly use quality inspection tools.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, set up and adjust production machines and tooling, and maintain inspection records.
• Experience with rapid prototyping environments and iterative design processes.
• Experience with fixture design and work-holding systems for precision prototyping operations.
• Strong shop organization and maintenance habits.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with the Datron Neo 2+ CNC mill or comparable high-speed precision CNC milling platforms.
• Experience with 3-axis and multi-axis CNC programming for complex geometries.
• Experience machining advanced or difficult materials — ceramics, hard glass, optical crystals, Invar, or similar — for scientific or precision-instrument applications.
• Familiarity with parts intended for ultra-high-vacuum or extreme-high-vacuum service, or for high thermal processing environments, including the surface finish, cleanliness, and material-selection practices those applications require.
• Knowledge of materials science considerations relevant to quantum or precision-instrument hardware.
• Experience with minimum-quantity lubrication systems and precision cooling applications.
• Experience in scientific, defense, or deep-tech hardware environments.

Security and compliance requirements

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Government of Canada security clearance, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be eligible to comply with requirements of the Controlled Goods Program, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be willing to participate in background screening, documentation, and compliance processes associated with security-sensitive work.

Skills and attributes

• Strong attention to detail, authenticity, and a sense of responsibility in all tasks.
• Critical thinking and a problem-solving mindset grounded in measurement and evidence.
• Craftsmanship: pride in clean work, clean code, and a clean shop.
• Clear written and verbal communication; ability to document setups and processes for repeatable results.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

• Extended health care (including dental and vision)
• Life insurance
• Overtime paid after 8 hours per day

Recruitment and AI disclosure

Q-Block Computing uses artificial intelligence (AI) solely to summarize application materials and candidate profiles during the initial screening stage. Human reviewers review the original application documents and are involved in every screening and selection decision. All hiring decisions, including the final hiring decision, are made by human reviewers; AI does not make hiring decisions.

Equal opportunity

Q-Block Computing is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants with respect and dignity. Accommodations are available on request during the application and recruiting process. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply.