IPF Machinist

IPF Machinist 3/4 – Los Alamos National Laboratory

The Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) Isotope Program (IP) within the Inorganic Isotope & Actinide Chemistry group (C‑IIAC) is recognized worldwide for R&D and production of radionuclides for medical and industrial applications. The IPF (Isotope Production Facility) TarDIS target lab development facility requires qualified machinists to support R&D target development.

IPF machinists manufacture parts and assemblies by programming, setting up, and operating manual and CNC mills and lathes, wire EDM machines, 3D printing, and waterjet cutting. Machinists work from complex drawings, sketches, and CAD models, and manufacture complex parts made from common and exotic materials with precise tolerances. With direction from the TarDIS Shop Supervisor, IPF Senior Scientist, and the Isotope Production Manager the individual will monitor and report performance and attainment of technical deliverables.

This position will be filled at either the Machinist 3 or 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

• Follow safety guidelines and other work instructions.
• Use hand tools and supporting shop equipment; perform precision measurements; set up and operate CNC and other manual equipment with minimal supervision.
• Create CAD/CAM files and/or G&M code.
• Manufacture complex parts from drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions.
• Operate crane and forklifts.

• Review designs and advise on part manufacturability, cost, and schedule.
• Document work performed and report results to supervisor or customers orally or in writing.
• Provide 3D printing support.
• Assist in target development and/or production processes, and system/equipment design and fabrication.

• Experience setting up and operating manual and CNC mills and lathes to produce parts with a high degree of difficulty and tight tolerances.
• Skilled in applied shop mathematics.
• Experience developing machining processes, including fixturing and tooling design and selection.
• Ability to create CAD/CAM files and G&M code for CNC machines.
• Ability to perform basic precision measurements on parts using inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, verniers).
• Ability to work independently.

• Ability to manufacture complex parts made from difficult materials with exacting tolerances.
• Ability to develop new procedures.
• Ability to review designs and advise on manufacturing, cost, and schedule.
• Experience with 3D printing/additive manufacturing.

Position requires an Associate’s Degree (AAS) in Machining Technologies or equivalent precision metalworking program and:

• Machinist 3: 4 years related experience; or 6 years prototype experience; or Journeyperson qualification program plus 4 years experience.
• Machinist 4: 6 years related experience; or 8 years prototype experience; or Journeyperson qualification program plus 6 years experience.

• Design experience, preferably Solid Works and Master Cam.
• Experience with 5‑axis CNC machining.
• Crane/Forklift qualified.
• Rad‑Worker 2.
• Applied knowledge of and experience using additive manufacturing equipment (e.g., 3D printers).
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate activities involving multiple personnel.

• Good hand‑eye coordination and fine motor control.
• Ability to lift/carry 30–40 lbs.
• Ability to acquire and maintain rigorous training as required.

Work location:

onsite, Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Regular appointment employees are required to serve a minimum of one year continuous service in their current position to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion,…