Machine Operator / Manufacturing Systems Engineer

Triton Systems • Chelmsford, MA

82d

About The Position

As a Machine Operator / Manufacturing Engineer, you will bridge the gap between cutting-edge R&D and real-world production. This role combines hands-on operation of advanced cold spray and robotic systems with process development, quality assurance, and equipment maintenance. You'll play a pivotal role in translating experimental setups into scalable, repeatable processes, supporting both low-volume production runs and the advancement of new additive manufacturing capabilities that strengthen U.S. industrial resilience.

Requirements

• MS in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Materials Engineering or related field, OR BS/BA with additional state-of-the art equivalent hands-on industrial experience.
• Minimum 5+ years in advanced manufacturing, coatings, thermal spray, or additive operations.
• Experience with robotics, CNC, or motion-control systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain industrial equipment.
• Familiarity with DOE/SPC and interpreting engineering drawings/schematics.
• Direct experience running manufacturing or R&D equipment.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols related to powders, high-pressure gases, and robotics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to adapt in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to government contract eligibility.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with cold spray or other thermal spray systems.
• High level of trainability, willing to learn new methods and machines.
• Knowledge of additive manufacturing workflows, hybrid/convergent manufacturing, and Design for Additive Manufacturing.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM, robotic programming, and motion/path planning.
• Experience with machining, surface finishing, or thermal post-processing.
• Familiarity with a broad range of metals (Al, Ti, steels, Ni-based alloys, refractory metals).
• Knowledge of nondestructive inspection/evaluation techniques and metrology tools.
• Prior experience in aerospace, defense, energy, or maritime manufacturing; exposure to government R&D or production contracts.

Responsibilities

• Operate, maintain, and oversee cold spray systems and robotic processing cells.
• Program, calibrate, and troubleshoot spray paths; manage powder preparation and substrate conditioning.
• Translate R&D setups into repeatable production processes.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DOE) and Statistical Process Control (SPC) to optimize parameters.
• Support integration with machining, heat treatment, and finishing.
• Conduct in-process quality checks.
• Support metallography, hardness, and microstructure testing.
• Assist with nondestructive inspection (ultrasonic, eddy current, CT).
• Document results for compliance with Quality Management System.
• Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot equipment, and maintain logs.
• Recommend upgrades and improvements; coordinate consumables and spare parts.
• Maintain SOPs, safety protocols, and detailed process records.
• Contribute operational data to reports, proposals, and customer deliverables.
• Work under the Principal Project Engineer and Focus Area Lead.
• Support project engineers, scientists, and cross-disciplinary teams.
• Mentor junior staff and assist with facility tours, demos, and occasional field deployments.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees