Prototype Machinist (Mech Tech H 3)

HII's Mission Technologies division•Alexandria, VA

1d•$30 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

Mission Technologies, a division of HII, is collecting applications for a future opportunity for a Prototype Machinist at our Alexandria, VA location. In this hands-on, fast-paced role, you won’t just fabricate parts—you’ll help shape the future of advanced technology. You’ll work with an impressive mix of CNC and traditional machine tools, from knee mills and lathes to CNC routers, waterjets, and lasers. Your creations will range from precision‑milled brackets to custom sheet‑metal enclosures, crafted from aluminum, steel, stainless, and modern plastics. Every day brings a new challenge. You’ll collaborate directly with engineers, turning concept sketches, verbal ideas, and engineering drawings into real‑world components. Your insights will help refine designs for manufacturability, influence prototype development, and solve unconventional problems involving complex geometries and tight packaging. You’ll also play a key role in keeping the machine shop safe, clean, and operating at peak performance—plus lend support with facilities maintenance and coordination with outside contractors. This role is built for individuals who want to grow. As you develop expertise with advanced fabrication technologies and collaborate daily with engineering teams, you’ll gain exposure to design-for-manufacture principles, rapid prototyping workflows, and cutting‑edge production methods. High performers have opportunities to expand into lead machinist roles, cross-train in new machining technologies, or transition into engineering support and manufacturing development positions. You’ll be part of a team that invests in your learning, encourages exploration, and helps you build a long-term technical career.

Requirements

5 years of related experience with High School diploma/GED and/or certification in assigned area preferred.
Proficient with programming, setting-up and operating CNC tools.
Must be experienced using conventional lathes and milling machines.
Must be proficient in the use and reading of various measurement devices including but not limited to rulers and scales, micrometers, calipers, gauges, etc.
Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or other 2 year technical degree in related discipline and 3 years of related experience.
Inspect parts to ensure quality with tools such as micrometers and calipers.
Proficient with Mastercam and/or similar CAM software.
Experienced in reading, interpreting and following blueprints, technical drawings.
Knowledge of safety and quality control steps and procedures.
5-axis experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Machining components from scratch per print, on-time and within budget.
Inspect your own parts to confirm they meet specifications.
Plan, set-up and run manual CNC machines.
Work both independently and as part of our machining team.
Keep the machine shop safe, clean, and operating at peak performance.
Lend support with facilities maintenance and coordination with outside contractors.