NIAR Machine Technician - ATLAS

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a machine technician at Wichita, KS to operate advanced automated fiber placement and CNC machining equipment to produce high-precision aerospace components.

You will handle machine setup, program verification, composite layup, troubleshooting and quality checks in a fast-paced, research-driven environment. Ideal candidates have CNC machining experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to follow complex technical instructions.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Ability to become certified to operate forklifts, respirator use, and crane operation.

Responsibilities

• Set up, mount, and prep tools for AFP layup.
• Load, verify, and run N/C programs.
• Debugs N/C programs with assistance from programming team.
• Calibrate tow placement to ensure machine operates properly.
• Verify defect free composite fiber placement on a continuous basis.
• Understand and adhere to work instructions and sequences in blueprints and engineering orders.
• In addition to AFP machine operations, perform hand layup of composite assemblies.
• Set up and adjust machine settings such as programs and bond jig placement.
• Help troubleshoot machine issues.
• Comply with AS9100 requirements.
• Conduct supply inventory management.

Skills

CNC Machining

Attention to detail

Reading technical drawings

Verbal/written communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

KUKA controls

Siemens controls

Job description

Department: NIAR Advanced Technologies Lab for AerospaceSystems

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 1st Shift. Work is performed onsite and in person.

Job Details

Join the NIAR Advanced Technologies Lab for Aerospace Systems as a machine technician. In this role, you’ll operate advanced automated fiber placement and CNC machining equipment to produce high‑precision aerospace components. You’ll handle machine setup, program verification, composite layup, troubleshooting, and quality checks in a fast‑paced, research‑driven environment. Ideal candidates bring CNC machining experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work from complex technical instructions. This position requires U.S. Person status due to export compliance regulations.

Job Summary

Responsibilities include set up and operation of various tools and equipment to create, modify, or repair precision parts. Monitor 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.

Job Duties

• Set up, mount, and prep tools for Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) layup.
• Load, verify, and run N/C programs.
• Debugs N/C programs with assistance from programming team.
• Calibrate tow placement to ensure machine operates properly.
• Verify defect free composite fiber placement on a continuous basis.
• Understand and adhere to work instructions and sequences specified in blueprints, operations planning, engineering orders, program setup sheets, standard work planning, etc.
• In addition to AFP machine operations, operator tasks include hand layup of composite assemblies.
• Operator will perform all tasks and activities associated with the manufacture of AFP Test panels. Must be able to set‑up and adjust various machine setting such as but not limited to, programs, shop aids and bond jig placement.
• Help troubleshoot machine issues.
• Comply with AS9100 requirements.
• Conduct supply inventory management.

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.

Required License/Certifications/Training

Ability to become certified to operate forklifts, respirator use, and crane operation.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience using a KUKA controls and Siemens controls.
• Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrates and maintains value‑added time management skills.
• Demonstrates 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.

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.