Machinist - LiquidPiston

LiquidPiston, Inc.; Bloomfield, Northern (CT, KY); Hybrid; USD 48,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Healthcare

RSUs

401(k) with match

Growth opportunities

Job summary

LiquidPiston, Inc. is seeking a skilled Machinist to produce prototype engine components and tooling on manual and CNC mills. You will read drawings, select tools, set up machines, and inspect parts to tight tolerances in our R&D environment.

The role involves collaborating closely with engineers and technicians, solving manufacturing challenges, and contributing to design iterations and improvements. This is a hands-on, five-day onsite position with opportunities to impact next‑gen engine

Qualifications

• Experience operating manual or CNC milling machines.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings accurately.
• Experience using precision measuring tools and inspection equipment.
• Ability to work onsite five days per week.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual and CNC milling machines to produce prototype engine components, fixtures, tooling, and other precision hardware.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, workholding methods, speeds, and feeds for milling operations.
• Machine a variety of metals and other materials to specified dimensions and tolerances.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Use micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, bore gauges, and other inspection tools.
• Make adjustments to machining processes to achieve required dimensions, surface finishes, and tolerances.
• Work closely with engineers to manufacture, modify, and improve prototype components.
• Assist with prototype development, design iterations, and manufacturing improvements.
• Modify or repair existing components as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining and manufacturing issues and recommend practical solutions.
• Communicate with engineers and technicians regarding machining challenges, part requirements, and potential improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Properly maintain and care for machines, tooling, and equipment.
• Document work and communicate machining results, issues, and recommendations to engineering and operations teams.
• Support other fabrication, assembly, and prototype development activities as needed.

Skills

Manual milling

CNC milling

Reading drawings

GD&T

Precision measurement

Metals machining

Detail oriented

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Onsite five days

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Height gauges

Bore gauges

Job description

Machinist - LiquidPiston

Location: Bloomfield, CT

Schedule: Fully onsite, 5 days per week

Relocation: LiquidPiston is expected to relocate to Suffield, CT later in 2026.

About LiquidPiston

LiquidPiston is an advanced technology company developing compact, high-performance rotary engines based on a novel thermodynamic cycle. Our technology is being developed for applications across defense, aerospace, commercial, and hybrid-electric propulsion.

We are a hands‑on R&D environment where machinists work closely with engineers and technicians to build, modify, and improve prototype hardware. This is an opportunity to work on unique, highly engineered components rather than repetitive production parts.

Position Summary

LiquidPiston is looking for a skilled, hands‑on Machinist who enjoys variety, solving problems, and seeing the finished product of their work. In this role, you’ll primarily work with manual and CNC mills to manufacture prototype engine components, tooling, fixtures, and other precision hardware. You’ll work closely with engineers and technicians to bring designs to life, make modifications, troubleshoot machining challenges, and help turn ideas into working hardware. This is not a position where you’ll be making the same part all day, every day. Our R&D environment means you’ll work on a variety of projects, materials, and components, often supporting new designs and solving unique manufacturing challenges along the way. The right person will take pride in their work, pay attention to the details, and be comfortable figuring things out when there isn’t always a step‑by‑step answer. If you enjoy machining and want to see your work contribute to the development of innovative engine technology, this is an opportunity to make a real impact.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual and CNC milling machines to produce prototype engine components, fixtures, tooling, and other precision hardware.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T.
• Select appropriate cutting tools, workholding methods, speeds, and feeds for milling operations.
• Machine a variety of metals and other materials to specified dimensions and tolerances.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment.
• Use micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, bore gauges, and other inspection tools.
• Make adjustments to machining processes to achieve required dimensions, surface finishes, and tolerances.
• Work closely with engineers to manufacture, modify, and improve prototype components.
• Assist with prototype development, design iterations, and manufacturing improvements.
• Modify or repair existing components as needed.
• Troubleshoot machining and manufacturing issues and recommend practical solutions.
• Communicate with engineers and technicians regarding machining challenges, part requirements, and potential improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Properly maintain and care for machines, tooling, and equipment.
• Document work and communicate machining results, issues, and recommendations to engineering and operations teams.
• Support other fabrication, assembly, and prototype development activities as needed.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working as a machinist, CNC machinist, prototype machinist, or in a similar hands‑on manufacturing role.
• Experience operating manual and/or CNC milling machines.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Experience using precision measuring tools and inspection equipment.
• Knowledge of machining practices, cutting tools, workholding, speeds, and feeds.
• Experience machining metals such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, cast iron, or other engineering materials.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands‑on problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating closely with engineers and technicians.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high‑quality work.
• Ability to work onsite five days per week.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with both manual and CNC mills.
• Experience with prototype, low‑volume, or R&D machining.
• Experience working with tight‑tolerance components.
• CNC mill programming exposure is a plus.
• CAM exposure is a plus.
• Experience making engine components, tooling, fixtures, or other complex mechanical components.
• Experience working in an engineering or R&D environment.
• Experience working with difficult‑to‑machine materials is a plus.

Benefits

• PTO We value work‑life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge. Our benefits include 3 weeks of PTO (which covers vacation and sick time) plus 10 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage: medical, dental, and vision plans
• Equity participation: RSUs for all permanent employees
• 401(k) with match: 100% up to 3%, plus 50% match for 3-5% range
• Growth opportunities: Mentorship, training, and leadership development

Our Culture

We challenge convention and solve hard problems. We move fast, think boldly, and iterate quickly. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and resilience. We take calculated risks and believe that every setback is a steppingstone toward breakthrough innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LiquidPiston, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre‑employment background check and drug screening.