CNC Machinist / Programmer - 2nd Shift

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research; Danville (VA); On-site; USD 49,593 - 55,104; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Health insurance options

Employer-paid life insurance

Job summary

A leading research institute in Danville, Virginia is seeking a Senior CNC Machinist to take on complex machining responsibilities. The candidate should have a strong background in CNC principles and programming, with at least 5 years of experience. This role offers the chance to work in a dynamic environment focused on precision and innovation, where you will lead projects and mentor junior staff. Compensation is competitive, with benefits including retirement plans and health insurance.

Qualifications

• Expert-level understanding of CNC machining principles.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience with advanced CNC operations.
• Experience in ITAR-regulated and/or ISO-certified environments.

Responsibilities

• Act as a senior technical resource in CNC operations.
• Set up, program, and operate advanced CNC machining equipment.
• Mentor and support junior machinists.

Skills

CNC machining principles

Multi-axis programming

Precision manufacturing

CAD/CAM programming

Troubleshooting skills

Continuous improvement

Education

Associate’s degree in Precision Machining Technology

Tools

Autodesk Fusion 360

Siemens NX

Job description

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

• $36.00 – $40.00 per hour (with shift differentials where applicable)
• Retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) with employer match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and paid family leave
• Paid holidays including a two-week paid winter break
• Health insurance options including PPO and HSA plans with dental coverage
• Employer-paid life insurance

Work Schedule

This position works a second‑shift schedule designed to support advanced manufacturing operations.

• Monday through Thursday
• Second Shift: 3:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

How You Will Help The Team

In 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.

Qualifications

Your Knowledge & Expertise

You 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 Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or diploma in Precision Machining Technology required.
• Minimum of five (5) 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 Different

This 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 Employer

We 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.