Prototype Machinist; Mech Tech H

Prototype Machinist (Mech Tech H
2)

Job Description:

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.

Career Growth at HII Mission Technologies:
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.

Essential

Job Responsibilities:

You will be responsible for machining components from scratch per print, on-time and within budget. Be required to inspect your own parts to confirm they meet specifications. You will be required to plan, set-up and run manual CNC machines. You will work both independently and as part of our machining team.

Minimum Qualifications:

2 years of related experience with High School diploma/GED and/or certification in assigned area preferred Experience programming 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

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 30 lbs. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces. Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.

May ride ships at sea for extended periods. May require wearing a respirator. Travel may be required within and outside of the continental United States.