NIAR 3-Axis CNC Machinist

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY; Park City (KS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Wichita State University’s NIAR Advanced Material and Prototyping group seeks a CNC Machinist with 3‑Axis experience for our Park City, KS location. The role focuses on set up and operation of precision machines to produce parts from complex drawings, with ongoing quality checks to ensure accuracy.

The ideal candidate reads technical drawings, uses precision measuring tools, and maintains equipment. This is a full-time, on-site position with typical hours and occasional evenings or weekends as

Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC machines with 3‑axis capability.
• Ability to read and interpret complex drawings and specs.
• Proven precision measurement and quality control skills.
• Willingness to work on-site and comply with safety rules.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC machines to produce precision parts.
• Monitor machinery and perform quality checks against specifications.

Skills

3-Axis machining

Reading drawings

Precision measurement

Quality checks

Communication skills

Driver’s license

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Equivalent technical training

Job description

Job Information

Department: NIAR Advanced Material and Prototyping

Campus Location: Park City, KS

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday; occasional evenings and weekends may be required as needed. Work is performed onsite and in-person.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) is a fast‑growing area within WSU, known globally for our expertise in the most critical areas of aerospace research and development. The Advanced Machining and Prototyping Lab is looking for CNC Machinist with 3‑Axis experience to join our team. This position is located at our Park City, KS location.

Job Summary

Responsibilities include set up and operation of various tools and equipment to create, modify, or repair precision parts. Monitors the machinery and conducts regular quality checks to ensure they are running properly and that the parts are being produced according to specifications.

Essential Functions

Machines and fabricates components by preparing and operating machines; works from complex drawings, prototype sketches, electronic files and/or verbal instructions. Responsible for production of high precision parts and performs complex setups required to produce parts. Troubleshoots issues with equipment, new programs, and/or products; detects equipment malfunctions and maintains machinery to ensure functionality. Provides training and oversight of new hires and students.

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent by hire date
• Three (3) years of experience as a CNC Machinist; Every 30 hours of related college coursework and/or technical training can be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience with 3-Axis machining
• Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrates and maintains value-added time management skills
• Demonstrate good work ethics and lead by example.
• Attention to detail
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to read and follow technical drawings and diagrammed instructions
• Ability to use precision tools to take accurate measurements
• Attention to detail and self-motivated
• Valid Driver’s License is required

Physical Requirements

Ability to position self for inspection, construction or maintenance of equipment and/or buildings including confined, elevated and loud noise spaces. Ability to inspect work, materials, equipment, and/or supplies and identify any errors, needs, and/or determining factors. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Ability to move, transport, and/or deliver items, supplies, or equipment. Ability to use tools, equipment, and technology necessary to do the job. This includes dexterity in instrument manipulation. Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to ascend and descend ladders and/or stairs.