CNC Machinist & Programmer — Student Innovation Lab

NU USA Northeastern University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Northeastern University in Boston seeks a CNC Machinist & Programmer to support teaching, research, and student projects by fabricating components with manual and CNC tools. The role requires strong machining, CAD/CAM skills, and mentoring of students.

You will set up machines, maintain equipment, order supplies, and collaborate with Capstone teams and faculty to ensure parts meet specs and timelines. Occasional Saturdays may be required.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of machining experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience) strongly preferred
• Manufacture components using manual and/or automated machining tools
• Read and interpret CAD plans/files
• Provide design advice when needed
• Manage multiple machining jobs under tight deadlines
• Maintain manual and computer-aided machining equipment
• CAM/CAD software programming
• MS Office Suite proficiency (Excel, Outlook, etc.)
• Ability to mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in machining best practices
• Support student project work and research by machining parts as needed
• Maintain shop safety standards
• Flexibility to work occasional Saturdays (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Machining, Programming & Fabrication Operations - 50% Fabricate metal and polymer components using manual and CNC/NC machine tools (lathes, mills, grinders, drill presses, etc.)
• Set up, program, operate, and adjust CNC/NC machines for accurate, efficient production per design specifications
• Apply industry-standard practices to meet dimensional, functional, tolerance, and surface finish requirements
• Interpret CAD drawings and translate designs into manufacturable components using appropriate methods
• Support fabrication for Capstone design teams, student groups, research faculty, and instructional projects
• Equipment Maintenance, Shop Operations & Procurement Support - 30% Maintain machining and shop equipment for safe, reliable, continuous operation
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of manual and CNC equipment
• Order shop supplies, tooling, materials, and consumables; manage inventory tracking and stock
• Coordinate acquisition of new equipment by obtaining quotes, advising on technical specs, and supporting purchasing decisions
• Collaborate with departmental staff and other Northeastern University units on machining and fabrication needs
• Student Supervision, Training & Technical Consultation - 20% Supervise and support work-study students; ensure proper equipment use and adherence to shop procedures
• Train student operators on manual and CNC equipment, workflows, and best practices
• Consult with Capstone directors, faculty, and students on machining projects and feasibility
• Mentor students on part design, manufacturability, tolerancing, material selection, and machining best practices
• Provide technical guidance to enhance student project outcomes and research productivity

Skills

Machining experience

CNC programming

CAD interpretation

Mentoring

Shop supervision

MS Office

Safety compliance

Cam/CAD programming

Tools

CAM software

CAD software

Job description

Northeastern University in Boston seeks a CNC Machinist & Programmer to support teaching, research, and student projects by fabricating components with manual and CNC tools. The role requires strong machining, CAD/CAM skills, and mentoring of students.

You will set up machines, maintain equipment, order supplies, and collaborate with Capstone teams and faculty to ensure parts meet specs and timelines. Occasional Saturdays may be required.