CNC Operator

Valar Atomics is a nuclear energy company focused on scaling high-temperature gas reactors (HTGRs) for grid-independent industrial applications. The company is developing what it calls gigasites, large-scale facilities housing hundreds of nuclear reactors intended to power heavy industry, data centers, hydrogen production, and clean hydrocarbon fuel synthesis. Their reactor design uses TRISO fuel, a graphite moderator, and helium coolant, a combination the company highlights for its strong safety profile and proliferation resistance. By operating outside the traditional electricity grid, Valar Atomics aims to unlock economies of scale that have historically eluded the nuclear industry. Valar Atomics' mission centers on making nuclear energy the cheapest and most reliable energy source in the world, with a particular emphasis on decarbonizing industrial processes and enabling clean fuel production. Their hydrogen output, generated via a sulfur-iodine thermochemical cycle, can be combined with captured CO2 to produce synthetic hydrocarbons through a modified Fischer-Tropsch process, offering a pathway to drop-in clean fuels. The company also targets the surging power demands of AI data centers, which are projected to require over 200 additional terawatt-hours of grid power by 2030. The company is currently advancing its Ward 250 project, a test reactor being developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, the San Rafael Energy Research Center, and the State of Utah, with a target go-live date of July 4, 2026, America's 250th birthday. The reactor has already been physically transported to Emery County, Utah, with logistical support from the U.S. military. Four executive orders issued under the Trump administration provided a mandate supporting the project's accelerated deployment timeline.

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable—unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Team 

As part of the Manufacturing organization, the Machine Shop manufactures precision components that meet exacting engineering and quality standards. The team supports rapid development, prototyping, and production through advanced machining capabilities. 

The Role 

Valar Atomics is seeking CNC Operators to join our growing manufacturing team in Torrance, CA. This is a full-time opportunity for hands-on CNC professionals who have experience operating CNC machinery and are comfortable working with FANUC controls.

Key Responsibilities 

• Operate CNC machines safely and efficiently while following established procedures.
• Set up and operate CNC equipment according to work instructions, drawings, and specifications.
• Load and unload parts, inspect finished components, and monitor machine operation.
• Make basic machine adjustments and offsets as needed.
• Use precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Maintain accurate production and inspection records.
• Follow all safety, quality, and housekeeping requirements.
• Work closely with machinists, programmers, quality, and production team members.

Basic Qualifications  

• Hands-on CNC Operator experience.
• FANUC control experience required.
• Ability to read and understand mechanical drawings.
• Experience using basic precision measuring tools.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and follow detailed work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work either day or night shift.

Preferred Skills and Experience  

• Experience with CNC mills, lathes, or multi-axis equipment.
• Experience making tool offsets or minor program adjustments.
• Aerospace, defense, nuclear, or precision manufacturing experience.
• Experience machining materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, or nickel alloys.
• Familiarity with GD&T and first-piece/inspection requirements.

What We Offer  

• Competitive base salary 
• Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
• Comprehensive medical benefits 
• Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
• Generous PPE stipend
• High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
• Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
• Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
• The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).