CNC Machinist
About The Position
Job Summary: The CNC Machinist supports teaching, research, and student project activities within the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (MIE) by providing high-quality machining and fabrication services. This position is responsible for fabricating metal and polymer components using both manual and CNC/NC machine tools in support of Capstone design teams, student activity groups, research faculty, and instructional needs. The role requires the application of industry-standard machining practices to ensure that all parts meet required quality, tolerance, and performance specifications. In addition to fabrication, the CNC Machinist & Programmer maintains machining equipment, coordinates equipment acquisition, supervises student workers, and provides technical guidance and mentoring to students on manufacturability and part design. This position plays a critical role in supporting hands-on learning, research productivity, and shop operations within the department.
Requirements
- 3–5 years of machining experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience) strongly preferred
- Perform all standard machinist functions
- Manufacture components using manual and/or automated machining tools
- Read and interpret CAD plans/files
- Provide design advice when needed
- Manage multiple machining jobs under tight deadlines
- Maintain manual and computer-aided machining equipment
- CAM/CAD software programming
- MS Office Suite proficiency (Excel, Outlook, etc.)
- Ability to mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in machining best practices
- Support student project work and research by machining parts as needed
- Maintain shop safety standards
Nice To Haves
- Flexibility to work occasional Saturdays (preferred)
Responsibilities
- Fabricate metal and polymer components using manual and CNC/NC machine tools (lathes, mills, grinders, drill presses, etc.)
- Set up, program, operate, and adjust CNC/NC machines for accurate, efficient production per design specifications
- Apply industry-standard practices to meet dimensional, functional, tolerance, and surface finish requirements
- Interpret CAD drawings and translate designs into manufacturable components using appropriate methods
- Support fabrication for Capstone design teams, student groups, research faculty, and instructional projects
- Maintain machining and shop equipment for safe, reliable, continuous operation
- Perform scheduled preventive maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of manual and CNC equipment
- Order shop supplies, tooling, materials, and consumables; manage inventory tracking and stock
- Coordinate acquisition of new equipment by obtaining quotes, advising on technical specs, and supporting purchasing decisions
- Collaborate with departmental staff and other Northeastern University units on machining and fabrication needs
- Supervise and support work-study students; ensure proper equipment use and adherence to shop procedures
- Train student operators on manual and CNC equipment, workflows, and best practices
- Consult with Capstone directors, faculty, and students on machining projects and feasibility
- Mentor students on part design, manufacturability, tolerancing, material selection, and machining best practices
- Provide technical guidance to enhance student project outcomes and research productivity
Benefits
- Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation.
- Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
