Machinist, Clark Hall Machine Shop

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY
•Onsite

About The Position

Cornell’s Laboratory for Accelerator-based Sciences & Education (CLASSE) is hiring a Machinist for the Clark Hall Machine Shop in Ithaca, New York. The position joins a professional machining and fabrication team supporting research and educational work by Cornell students, faculty, and staff, as well as external collaborators. The shop is a self-sustaining, recharge operation. Machinists work closely with technical staff, students, researchers, scientists, and faculty to develop and fabricate parts and assemblies that support Cornell’s research mission. The work is varied, with multiple projects typically underway at different stages of design, fabrication, and assembly. The Machinist fabricates high-precision components and repair parts using varied materials, tools, and conventional and specialized shop equipment. The role uses CAD/CAM systems, 3D models, measurement equipment, engineering drawings, and sketches; programs and operates CNC machine tools; and advises research and technical teams on design, fabrication, assembly, and repair of specialized research equipment. The Machinist also supports component and system design, develops setups and specialized tooling, shares machining expertise with staff and students, and follows required safety procedures and certifications. The machine-shop environment has inherent hazards from machinery and welding operations, and some chemicals and materials require special handling and controls. The position is onsite at Cornell University’s Ithaca campus. The stated pay range is $31.60–$36.72 per hour.

Requirements

  • Trade, vocational, or technical school and 4–6 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
  • Experience safely, efficiently, and effectively operating a wide range of professional machine tools and shop equipment, both manual and computer-controlled.
  • Demonstrated attention to fine details.
  • Ability to read engineering drawings and follow critical procedures and instructions.
  • Basic computer proficiency and aptitude, including comfort using common software applications.
  • Ability to adapt to the changing needs of a research environment.
  • Ability to receive directions and communicate effectively in the shop and across research groups.
  • Ability to work effectively and cooperatively in a collaborative team environment.
  • Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Nice To Haves

  • Professional or accredited machinist or toolmaker certifications or credentials.
  • Experience in a research and development or academic shop or facility.
  • CNC and welding training.

Responsibilities

  • Fabricate high-precision components and repair parts using a wide variety of materials, tools, and conventional and specialized machine-shop equipment.
  • Use CAD/CAM systems, 3D models, precision measurement equipment, drawings, and sketches to develop accurate components and assemblies.
  • Program and operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine-tool equipment.
  • Advise and support researchers, engineers, and technical staff in designing, fabricating, assembling, and repairing sophisticated research equipment, systems, and custom components.
  • Assist with designing complex and unique components and systems, including evaluating materials, tooling, and manufacturing methods.
  • Design and construct machine-tool setups, assembly systems, and specialized tooling for research projects.
  • Collaborate with researchers and technical personnel through clear communication and responsive customer service.
  • Instruct staff and students in machining techniques, equipment operation, new technologies, and specialized areas of expertise.
  • Follow safety procedures and use caution and special controls when handling chemicals and other potentially hazardous materials.
  • Maintain safety certifications required by Environment Health & Safety and OSHA.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health care options.
  • Generous retirement contributions.
  • Access to wellness programs.
  • Employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
  • Health and personal leave.
  • Three weeks of vacation.
  • 13 holidays, including an end-of-year winter break from December 25 through January 1.
  • Two additional floating holidays.
  • Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program.
  • Tuition aid for external education.
  • Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program.
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