Machinist/Precision Fabrication Technician

INL; Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 42,485 - 81,994; Full time

Job summary

INL is looking for skilled Machinists and Precision Fabrication Technicians to support various engineering and research projects. The ideal candidates will have experience in precision machining, CNC programming, and component fabrication. Responsibilities include operating CNC mills and lathes, developing CAD/CAM software programs, and collaborating with engineers.

The pay range for these positions is between $30.84 to $59.52 per hour, depending on experience and education level. Join us to contribute to innovative nuclear research!

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years experience in CNC machining and fabrication.
• Proficient with CAD/CAM programming for multi-axis machining.
• Skilled in operating and troubleshooting manual and CNC machines.

Responsibilities

• Operate manual and CNC mills, lathes, and other machine shop equipment.
• Develop and execute CNC programs using CAD/CAM software.
• Read, interpret, and work from engineering drawings.

Skills

CNC machining

Precision fabrication

Technical drawing interpretation

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Vocational certificate in machining

Tools

CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam)

Manual and CNC mills

Job description

We are seeking skilled Machinists/Precision Fabrication Technicians to join our team supporting diverse engineering and research projects. We are hiring out of multiple facilities, including our Idaho Falls REC (in‑town) locations, Advanced Test Reactor (ATR), and Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC). We will hire from this opening for multiple positions over the next 1-2 months. We are seeking talented individuals who have experience involving precision machining, CNC programming, component fabrication, assembly, and design consultation. Candidates will work closely with engineers, researchers, and project leaders to fabricate and modify components to exacting specifications and support the operational needs of nuclear research facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate manual and CNC mills, lathes, and other machine shop equipment to perform close tolerance machining and fabrication activities.
• Develop and execute CNC programs using CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam) and create tool paths, libraries, and machine code.
• Read, interpret, and work from engineering drawings, sketches, schematics, and technical documents.
• Fabricate, modify, assemble, adjust, and test components and assemblies to meet design criteria and tolerances.
• Document fabrication activities and quality‑related information accurately in work packages.
• Collaborate with engineering and research teams to resolve technical fabrication issues and provide recommendations for improving product design, fabrication, testing, and assembly.
• Maintain safe and organized work areas, adhere to quality standards, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Train and mentor other technicians, and may act as lead over shop activities as assigned.
• Work in radiological areas using required PPE and comply with all safety, legal, and procedural requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with a minimum of 4 years of experience. Education such as a relevant vocational certificate or applicable AS may be counted toward experience, depending on position/location.
• Relevant experience to include CNC machining, fabrication, and quality assurance.
• Proficient with CAD/CAM software programming for multi‑axis machining.
• Strong ability to read and interpret GD&T, tolerances, and technical drawings.
• Skilled in manual and CNC machine operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Excellent problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain steady hand and precise coordination for fine assembly and machining tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Vocational certification in machining or related field.
• Experience working in nuclear or radiological environments.
• Experience with multi‑axis machining programming and operation.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard or type, reach with hands and arms, and operate a motor vehicle or job‑related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Working Conditions

The work environment is a maintenance and R&D shop environment with work also being done at job sites that may include exposure to adverse weather conditions, traffic hazards, moving vehicles, potential exposure to hazardous chemical/waste, and equipment and hazards involving the use of power tools and equipment. The noise level is generally moderate but with occasional exposure to noisy and/or loud equipment. Equipment used includes machine/electrical power tools and use of protective clothing. Position may work >8 hours/day, overtime/irregular hours, and working alone.

Job Information

• The pay range for these positions varies depending on specific role and location, but all pay will be in the following range: $30.84 - $59.52. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.