Senior Machinist; Machinist

At a Glance

Company: Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL)
Location: Los Alamos, NM (On-Site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $80,400 - $143,000 per year (based on experience and level)
Shift: Day Shift
Overtime: As Needed
Experience Level: Senior (5+ Years)
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizenship Required for Security Clearance Eligibility
Clearance: Ability to Obtain and Maintain DOE Q Clearance

Why This Role Exists

Los Alamos National Laboratory's Prototype Fabrication Division supports some of the nation's most advanced scientific research and national security programs. As demand for highly specialized prototype and production components continues to grow, LANL is seeking experienced CNC machinists who can independently program, set up, and manufacture complex precision parts.

This position is ideal for machinists who enjoy challenging work, advanced manufacturing processes, and the opportunity to contribute to projects that directly support critical national missions.

Depending on qualifications and experience, candidates may be hired as either a Machinist Level 4 or Machinist Level 5.

The Work You'll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Program, set up, and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, wire EDM machines, and manual machine tools
• Manufacture complex prototype and production components from engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications
• Develop machining strategies, tooling packages, and fixturing solutions for challenging parts
• Create and optimize CNC programs using CAD/CAM software
• Hold tight tolerances on complex components made from both common and exotic materials
• Perform first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measurement equipment
• Troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and improve machining processes
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, programmers, inspectors, and fellow machinists
• Support classified and unclassified manufacturing projects
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives and manufacturing best practices

Additional Responsibilities - Machinist Level 5

• Serve as a technical expert in machining processes and manufacturing strategy
• Mentor and develop lower-level machinists
• Lead complex machining projects and process development efforts
• Provide advanced guidance on CAD/CAM programming, GD&T interpretation, tooling, and fixturing

Machines, Controls & Software

You'll work with equipment such as:

Machines

• CNC Mills
• CNC Lathes
• Wire EDM Machines
• Manual Machine Tools

CAD/CAM Software

• Mastercam
• Solid Works

Programming

• CNC Programming
• Advanced CAD/CAM Development
• Process Development & Optimization

Inspection Equipment

• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Precision Inspection Equipment
• Advanced Metrology Tools

Materials You'll Work With

• Aluminum
• Stainless Steel
• Alloy Steels
• Titanium
• Exotic Engineering Materials
• Prototype and Research Materials

What We're Looking For Required

• Advanced CNC machining experience involving setup, programming, and operation of mills and lathes
• Strong understanding of tooling, work holding, fixturing, and machining process development
• Advanced knowledge of shop mathematics
• Strong blueprint reading skills
• Advanced GD&T interpretation to ASME Y14.5 standards
• Advanced precision measurement and inspection experience
• CAD/CAM programming experience in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and craftsmanship

Education & Experience

Machinist Level 4

• Associate Degree in Machining Technology (or equivalent) and 6+ years of experience

OR

• 8+ years of prototype machining experience

OR

• Journeyperson qualification plus 6+ years of experience

Machinist Level 5

• Associate Degree in Machining Technology (or equivalent) and 10+ years of experience

OR

• 12+ years of prototype machining experience

OR

• Journeyperson qualification plus 10+ years of experience

Preferred

• Wire EDM setup and operation experience
• Solid Works experience
• Mastercam experience
• Experience working directly with engineers on manufacturability improvements
• Previous mentoring, leadership, or supervisory experience
• Advanced prototype machining experience

Why Machinists Like Working Here

Experienced machinists choose Los Alamos National Laboratory because:

• Work on highly technical, one-of-a-kind projects
• Solve complex manufacturing challenges not found in traditional production environments
• Utilize advanced machining technologies and equipment
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists on mission-critical programs
• Strong culture of craftsmanship, safety, and continuous improvement
• Excellent career stability and growth opportunities
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• Outstanding retirement and benefits package

Pay, Benefits & Schedule Pay Range

Machinist Level 4: $80,400 - $127,900 per year

Machinist Level 5: $87,800 - $143,000 per year

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Award-Winning 401(k) with 6% Match + Additional Annual Contribution
• Tuition Assistance and Professional Development
• Paid Time Off and…