Machinist, Newman Machine Shop

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Cornell’s Laboratory for Accelerator-based Sciences & Education (CLASSE) seeks machinists for its professional machining and fabrication team, which spans multiple shops on Cornell’s Ithaca campus. The role is based in the Newman Machine Shop and involves fabricating and developing parts and assemblies for Cornell research programs. Projects come from CLASSE units and other campus groups, and machinists typically handle multiple jobs at once in different stages of design, fabrication, or assembly. The positions are fixed-term staff roles with an initial appointment period of three years and may be renewed depending on available funding and satisfactory performance. Machinists work closely with technical staff, students, researchers, scientists, and faculty to address technical research needs. The work involves producing unique, high-precision parts and assemblies, supporting the design and repair of sophisticated research equipment, and sharing technical knowledge with colleagues and students. The position is onsite in Ithaca, New York. Machine shops are inherently hazardous; strict adherence to safety procedures is required, and chemicals and some materials require special handling and controls.

Requirements

Trade, vocational, or technical school education 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.
Attention to fine details and ability to read engineering drawings and follow critical procedures and instructions.
Basic computer proficiency and 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 develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Nice To Haves

Professional or accredited machinist or tool maker 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 range 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.