Machinist Apprentice

Machinist Apprentice

Physics World

Join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for big ideas that make our world a better place. We are committed to a diverse and equitable workforce with an inclusive culture that values and celebrates the diversity of our people, talents, ideas, experiences, and perspectives.

$33.98 - $46.16 hourly. This position is under a step structure; step placement will be determined after your qualifications are fully assessed during the interview process.

We have multiple openings for Machinist Apprentices. You will progress through a 1,000‑hour training period (eight 6‑month steps) and must master all competency‑based training and education objectives before a Journeyman Certificate is issued by the State and/or U.S. Department of Labor. These positions are in the Manufacturing Engineering Section in the Materials Engineering Division (MED), within the Engineering Directorate.

Note:

this requisition has four to six openings; these are four‑year term appointments with the possibility of extension if a Journeyman Machinist position exists at the time of program completion.

• Develop and demonstrate an acceptable understanding of mechanical principles and practical application of shop theory related to the machinist trade, through hands‑on on‑the‑job training (OJT).
• Complete all occupational‑related classroom and job‑related instruction during normal work hours and required classroom instruction during off‑hours.
• Fabricate/machine parts made from a variety of materials including radioactive and toxic materials.
• Set up and operate basic conventional machine tools.
• Perform standard shop calculations to determine optimum feeds, speeds, and dimensions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q‑level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• High School diploma, GED, or equivalent with completed courses in shop math and mechanical drawing or blueprint reading.
• Passing score on the LLNL Apprentice level aptitude assessment.
• Basic knowledge and experience with machine shop equipment, machine tools, measuring instruments, and shop accessories.
• Basic knowledge of common materials, manufacturing processes, and productivity procedures.
• Ability to work in a shop environment, with moderate physical labor, bending, working in close quarters, and standing for long periods of time.
• Demonstrated math skills including geometry and trigonometry.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid California driver’s license with the ability to operate common motor vehicles including a 6,000 lb. forklift.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

• Associate degree in machine tool technology, mechanical technology, or a related field.
• Basic knowledge of CNC machine tools and equipment.
• Basic knowledge of CAD/CAM programming.
• Basic knowledge of Y14.5 geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

• Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)
• Our values – visit LLNL Inclusion

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q‑level clearance. If selected, we will initiate a federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. All L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q‑level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.

External applicants selected for this position must pass a post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test, including testing for use of marijuana as federal law applies to us as a federal contractor.

Per the DOE, LLNL must meet restrictions on the use and possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile…