CNC Machinist I or CNC Machinist II

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research; Danville (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance options

PPO and HSA plans with dental coverage

Retirement benefits with employer-math

Paid time off and holidays

Two-week paid winter break

Job summary

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, VA, seeks a Senior CNC Machinist to lead advanced multi‑axis machining. You will set up, program, and operate high‑end CNC equipment with minimal supervision and mentor junior machinists to strengthen the team.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years of CNC programming experience, familiarity with ITAR/ISO environments, and proficiency with multi‑axis milling, dual‑spindle lathes, mill/turn centers, and Wire EDM.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or diploma in Precision Machining Technology.
• 3+ years progressive CNC machining experience with advanced setup and programming.
• Experience in ITAR-regulated and ISO-certified manufacturing environments preferred.
• Proficiency with multi-axis milling, dual-spindle lathes, mill/turn centers, and Wire EDM.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Independently set up, program, and operate advanced CNC machining equipment with minimal supervision.
• Lead complex machining work and troubleshoot manufacturing challenges.
• Drive continuous improvement to efficiency, quality, and process capability.
• Mentor junior machinists and support team development.
• Ensure projects are completed on schedule meeting quality specs.

Skills

CNC Machining

Multi-axis programming

CAD/CAM software

Troubleshooting

Autonomy

Education

Associate’s degree in Precision Machining Technology

Tools

Autodesk Fusion 360

Siemens NX

Wire EDM

Multi-axis milling machines

Dual-spindle lathes

Job description

This position requires eligibility to access controlled unclassified information (CUI) and export‑controlled data, and candidates must meet applicable federal requirements, including U.S. person status where required. This role is not eligible for remote work and will be based onsite in Danville, Virginia.The Pay, Perks, & Benefits$26.00 – $31.00 per hour (with shift differentials where applicable)Retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) with employer matchPaid time off including vacation, sick leave, and paid family leavePaid holidays including a two-week paid winter breakHealth insurance options including PPO and HSA plans with dental coverageEmployer-paid life insuranceWork ScheduleThis position works a second-shift schedule designed to support advanced manufacturing operations.Monday through ThursdaySecond Shift: 3:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.How You Will Help the TeamIn this role, you will act as a senior technical resource, taking ownership of complex machining work and serving as a go-to expert for advanced CNC operations. You will work with a high degree of autonomy, help solve challenging manufacturing issues, and play a key role in strengthening team capability and process performance.Independently set up, program, and operate advanced CNC machining equipment with minimal supervision.Lead complex machining work and troubleshoot manufacturing, tooling, and process challenges.Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency, quality, and process capability.Mentor and support junior machinists, helping build a skilled and high-performing team.Ensure projects are completed on schedule and meet all quality and specification requirements.Your Knowledge & ExpertiseYou bring expert-level understanding of CNC machining principles, multi-axis programming, and precision manufacturing. You are highly proficient in CAD/CAM programming using Autodesk Fusion 360, Siemens NX, or comparable software, and can program directly from complex models and technical drawings. You have strong troubleshooting skills related to machines, tooling, and processes, and experience optimizing cycle times, reducing scrap, and improving process capability. You are comfortable working autonomously while documenting processes and collaborating with engineers, technicians, and external partners.Key QualificationsAssociate’s degree or diploma in Precision Machining Technology required.Minimum of three (3) years of progressive CNC machining experience, including advanced setup and programming of multi-axis operations.Proven ability to independently deliver complex machining projects with minimal supervision.Experience in ITAR-regulated and/or ISO-certified manufacturing environments strongly preferred.Experience with advanced CNC equipment, including multi-axis milling machines, dual-spindle lathes, mill/turn centers, and Wire EDM.Strong attention to detail, organization, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.Valid driver’s license required, with willingness to travel throughout Virginia and occasional out-of-state travel.What Makes Work Here DifferentThis role offers the opportunity to work in a highly technical, advanced manufacturing environment where precision, innovation, and continuous improvement are valued. You will have the autonomy to lead complex work, influence manufacturing processes, and contribute to high-impact projects while working alongside skilled professionals committed to quality, safety, and collaboration.Equal Opportunity EmployerWe are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.