Laboratory for Nuclear Science

Machine Shop Coodinator

 

Posted: 03/30/2025

Job #: 24902.

Job Title: SRS Technical Staff

Position Title:Machine Shop Coordinator

Grade: N/A
Exempt/Non-exempt: Exempt

Salary range: $90,000-$110,000

LABORATORY FOR NUCLEAR SCIENCE OVERVIEW:

The Laboratory for Nuclear Science (LNS) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is at the forefront of advancing our understanding of the fundamental laws of nature, pioneering new energy frontiers, and exploring the intricate behaviors of atomic nuclei. LNS is committed to providing a world-class education in fundamental physics, empowering students and researchers to lead innovative investigations across emerging scientific fields. Through extensive collaboration with leading global research facilities, LNS offers unparalleled opportunities for academic, government, and industry careers. Beyond its research in nuclear science, LNS plays a vital role in applying its expertise to a broad range of critical areas, including radiation therapy, energy systems, and the applications of AI in complex scientific problems. The laboratory advises governments on energy, security, and science policy, helping shape informed decisions and drive progress in global challenges.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The MIT Central Machine Shop fabricates precision components and assemblies in support of research and teaching activities across the Institute. The Machine Shop Coordinator develops, executes, and manages program/project plans and proposals. She/Heis a skilled machinist, familiar with all standard manual and CNC machine tools, and acts as the primary resource to assist customers with designing parts, equipment and assemblies for a broad range of student, research, and faculty projects. The Coordinator assists the Shop Supervisor by taking responsibility for the placement of work to be accomplished within the Central Machine Shop as well as to a network of outside vendors for specialty operations, processes, and occasional machine shop work overflow. This position requires a self-motivated individual who enjoys solving challenging design and machining problems.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS):
  • Act as the principal resource and subject matter expert to design and model parts and assemblies based on input from faculty, staff, and students from verbal instructions, sketches, prints, or CAD files.
  • Provides technical advice or content knowledge to achieve program/project goals and objectives.
  • Establishes timelines/action steps and works with stakeholders to reach objectives and deadlines.
  • Responsible for the completeness of information on final designs and for preparing mechanical drawings and CAD models for part programming and manufacture with a high level of autonomy.
  • Responsuble for setting up and helping maintain the vendor network according to quality, delivery, price, and capabilities when required.
  • Order parts and supplies, obtain vendor quotes, purchase orders, and process invoices for work to be done, general equipment, and new machinery.
  • Assist with entering information into and maintaining the Central Machine Shop’s FileMaker system, as well as entering information into MIT Atlas, for the accurate recording of jobs, materials purchased, and the machinist’s job, work, vacation, and sick times.
  • Provide cost, schedule, and resource information for planning and tracking progress of projects.
  • In the Shop Manager’s absence, provide direction for the Central Machine Shop’s operations.
  • Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS/TECHNICAL SKILLS:

Required

  • A minimum of 5 years as an all-around manual and CNC machinist, and with parts programming.
  • Proficiency in CAD/CAM part design and programming on a PC platform, preferably Solidworks and MasterCam.
  • Excellent communication skills including the ability to interact and act as a liaison to the diverse MIT community, the Central Machine Shop, and its vendor base.
  • Ability to estimate duration and costs of engineering and technical jobs based on experience.
  • Ability to design and model parts and assemblies from raw materials, start to finish.
  • Ability to adapt and adjust to rapidly changing priorities, tight deadlines, and unique program requirements.
  • Rare night, weekend, and/or overtime work may be required to fulfill responsibilities.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • A high level of expertise and independent judgement is required in this position to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.

Preferred:

  • Previous experience delegating tasks to machinists
  • Experience in understanding and interpreting Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Experience in the design and/or assembly of scientific and/or industrial instruments and machinery.
  • Familiarity with basic electronics.
  • Knowledge of complex part fabrication, including machining, welding, brazing, and various metal finishing processes.
WORK SCHEDULE:

On campus 5 days per wee

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Reports to Machine Shop Superviso

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

No formal supervisory duties

Apply for Job #24902

MIT is unable to provide work authorization and/or visa sponsorship for this position.
This position has a 6-month probationary period for new employees to the Institute.
Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background check.

 

 

LNS benefits from a diverse and engaged workplace and seeks to further enhance our community by employing individuals from varied backgrounds. LNS actively supports MIT’s commitment to advancing a respectful and caring community that embraces diversity and empowers everyone to learn and do their best.

MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin.