Lead Machinist (Boyd - AI Center)

University of Florida•Hillsborough, FL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This role involves fabrication, prototyping, and technical execution, where the Lead Machinist will consult with investigators on design, fabricate, assemble, and modify components and systems using advanced equipment such as CNC milling machines and lathes, laser or waterjet cutters, 3D printers, and welding systems. The position requires interpreting engineering drawings and collaborating with faculty to develop research prototypes for agricultural automation and AI applications. Additionally, the role supports research collaboration and project support by partnering with faculty and research teams on funded and exploratory projects in agricultural technology, contributing to experimental design feasibility, fabricating custom equipment, troubleshooting mechanical systems, and adapting designs for field deployment in specialty crop systems. Driving will be required. The Lead Machinist will also be responsible for supervision and workforce development, overseeing and coordinating specialized research activities, ensuring quality, safety, and timely completion of tasks, and training, mentoring, and overseeing undergraduate and graduate students in machining, fabrication techniques, and safe equipment use. Facility operations, equipment maintenance, and inventory management are key aspects, including maintaining fabrication equipment, tracking inventory, coordinating procurement, and implementing efficient shop workflows and safety protocols. The role also supports the documentation of fabrication processes and standard operating procedures. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety are essential, as is the ability to work in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment and adapt to evolving project needs.

Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent and six years of relevant experience.
Appropriate college coursework or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience; or Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience.
Valid driver's license is required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree
Technical certification in machining, manufacturing, mechanical engineering technology, or a related field
3–5 years of advanced machining and fabrication experience, including CNC programming and operation
Demonstrated experience with modern fabrication tools, including CNC mills and lathes, laser or waterjet cutters, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and welding
Experience supervising technical staff and/or training students or apprentices
Experience supporting R&D, prototyping, or engineering development projects preferred
Familiarity with agricultural equipment, robotics, or automation systems is highly desirable

Responsibilities

Consult with investigators on design, fabricate, assemble, and modify components and systems using advanced equipment, including CNC milling machines and lathes, laser or waterjet cutters, 3D printers, and welding systems.
Interpret engineering drawings and collaborate with faculty to develop research prototypes for agricultural automation and AI applications.
Partner with faculty and research teams to support funded and exploratory projects in agricultural technology.
Contribute to experimental design feasibility, fabricate custom equipment, troubleshoot mechanical systems and adapt designs for field deployment in specialty crop systems.
Oversee and coordinate specialized research activities, ensuring quality, safety, and timely completion of tasks.
Train, mentor, and oversee undergraduate and graduate students in machining, fabrication techniques, and safe equipment use.
Maintain fabrication equipment to ensure operational readiness and safety compliance.
Track inventory of materials, tools, and supplies; coordinate procurement; and implement efficient shop workflows and safety protocols.
Implement safety, operation, and maintenance protocols for equipment usage in the shop areas.
Support documentation of fabrication processes and standard operating procedures.