Instrument Maker, Senior

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

70d • $25 - $42

About The Position

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As an Instrument Maker in the Physics Instrument Shop, you’ll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team that supports groundbreaking scientific and clinical research through expert craftsmanship and innovation. Bring your creativity, precision, and problem-solving skills to a role where your work directly supports the advancement of science. You’ll collaborate with faculty, students, and researchers to design, build, and repair complex instruments that push the boundaries of discovery.

Requirements

• Technical or vocational high school education in machine shop operations.
• 3+ years as an Instrument Maker or 7+ years in precision part design/machining for scientific or clinical equipment.
• Strong communication, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

• MIG/TIG welding certification.
• Mastercam CAD/CAM software certification.

Responsibilities

• Consult independently with scientific and clinical customers to design and modify specialized equipment.
• Provide CAD and CNC support for instrument development.
• Machine and process precision parts to fine tolerances using lathes, milling machines, drills, welding/soldering equipment, and woodworking tools.
• Collaborate with Duke researchers to plan, design, and prepare drawings for new instruments using advanced shop mathematics and research techniques.
• Select fabrication methods and materials based on tolerances, stresses, and machine tool capabilities.
• Perform complex repairs, adjustments, and calibrations to malfunctioning instruments.
• Ensure completed work meets accuracy standards and safety codes.
• Coordinate project intake and assignment to match needs and expertise.
• Review specifications and estimate job costs; track projects from intake to delivery.
• Develop accurate quotes and provide timely billing and invoicing.
• Maintain inventory and collaborate with procurement to ensure timely sourcing of materials.
• Maintain standard operating procedures and provide technical guidance to faculty, students, and staff.
• Assist in training shop personnel and support continuous improvement efforts.
• Perform related duties as assigned to support the shop’s mission and daily operations.

Benefits

• Competitive medical and dental care.
• Generous retirement benefits.
• Wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees