Instrument Maker / Machinist, Engineering Shops

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution is seeking an Instrument Maker / Machinist to contribute to the development and fabrication of scientific equipment for teaching and research. The role requires a Grade 12 diploma and a journeyperson machinist certification, along with 5-10 years of related experience. Responsibilities include operating CNC and manual equipment, collaborating with teams, and ensuring high-quality standards. The position offers a competitive salary and the chance for extension or permanency.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 to 10 years of related experience in the machine shop.
• Advanced proficiency in operating trade-related equipment.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM for design and fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain machine shop equipment safely.
• Provide expertise in planning and designing scientific equipment.
• Contribute with innovative ideas in a team environment.

Skills

Machining aptitude

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Ability to adapt

Education

Grade 12 diploma

Interprovincial journeyperson machinist certification

Tools

CNC machine tools

Manual lathes

Solidworks

Autodesk Inventor

Job description

Instrument Maker / Machinist, Engineering Shops

Primary Purpose: To creatively contribute to development, design, fabrication and machining services for the University teaching and research community.

Nature of Work:

• Reports directly to the manager of Engineering Shops
• The incumbent provides efficient and high-quality machine shop service to teaching laboratories, to research projects on campus, and to external clients
• This position interacts with faculty, staff, undergraduate and graduate students within a dynamic hands‑on shop environment
• Work is performed independently within a team environment, subject to deadlines and priorities
• The incumbent is expected to contribute with innovative ideas
• Tasks are broad and complex and require the application of a wide range of working knowledge and skills

Accountabilities:

• Operates and maintains typical machine shop equipment (vertical/horizontal saws, manual and CNC lathes, manual and CNC mills, drill press, precision grinding equipment, welding equipment) in a safe and efficient manner
• Supports, collaborates, and shares expertise in the planning, designing, and fabrication of scientific equipment and prototypes as well as the repair of existing equipment
• Achieves high quality of work, with strict standards and specifications to be met
• Independently decides which processes to use to achieve objectives
• Actively engages in own professional development

Education:

• Grade 12 diploma
• Interprovincial journeyperson machinist certification (Red‑Seal)
• Additional related journeyperson certifications are an asset

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 to 10 years of directly related experience as a journeyperson in a diverse machine shop or industrial mechanical shop environment
• Have advanced competency and proficiency in the operation of trade related equipment and tools such as, but not limited to, manual lathes, manual milling machines, CNC milling machines, drill presses, and vertical and horizontal saws
• Proficient computer skills, programming, set up and operation of CNC machine tools, specifically 3‑axis milling
• CAD/CAM experience as it pertains to design and fabrication. Solidworks and/or Autodesk Inventor, and Master Cam would be an asset
• The following areas of experience would be considered an asset: welding, industrial mechanical repair, sheet metal fabrication, and precision carpentry
• Welding (Mig, Tig) experience would be an asset
• Class 5 driver license required and forklift experience an asset

Skills:

• Job‑shop type machining aptitude
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to develop innovative processes to achieve high quality unique parts
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to interpret and comprehend technical documents and instructions as well as the ability to document procedures
• Exercise good judgement in planning, organization, and completion of assignments
• Demonstrates flexibility in uncertain situations and adapts well to change
• Demonstrates the ability to analyze and resolve work issues that arise
• The ability to develop and maintain respectful and collaborative relationships with a wide variety of individuals including team members, staff, faculty, students, and other clients

Department: Engineering Shops
Status: Term 1 year with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent
Employment Group: CUPE 1975
Shift: Mon‑Fri, 8:00‑4:30
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $28.72 - 37.60 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Applied Scientific Services
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 5
Posted Date: 11/26/2025
Closing Date: 1/6/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Yes
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity‑deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources for assistance.