Machinist Technician

Machinist Technician

We are seeking a Machinist Technician for the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS). This entry-level position is responsible for assisting in the day-to-day operation of the mechanical engineering teaching laboratory and machine shop, as well as working on various instructional student projects and experiments.

Reporting directly to the Senior Machinist Technician, the incumbent will support the machining needs of the space while developing their technical skills. The Machinist Technician will assist with student supervision and perform routine maintenance on fabrication equipment (e.g. mills, lathes, bandsaws, drill presses, etc.). The incumbent also assists with setting up laboratory experiments, performing maintenance on laboratory equipment and machine tools, instructing students on the operation of laboratory equipment, taking inventory, and other tasks required for the day-to-day operation of the laboratory with a focus on the machine shop. The incumbent must be willing and eager to learn advanced machining techniques, CAM programming, and the operation of specialized systems like wind tunnels and material testing equipment. The incumbent will also interface with student clubs on the design and manufacturing of club projects and may be called upon to chaperone student clubs during testing.

Responsibilities

• 25% Assisting with student supervision and ensuring proper machining methods and safety protocols are followed in the machine shop.
• 25% Operating and performing routine maintenance on fabrication and laboratory equipment including CNC mills, CNC lathes, laser cutters, 3D printers, mechanical and electronic instrumentation, and computers interfacing with instrumentation/equipment.
• 15% Assisting Senior staff in performing machining operations needed to support the department course curriculum.
• 15% Supporting laboratory experiments by setting up equipment and performing basic troubleshooting to ensure effective operation.
• 10% Maintaining shop inventory, organizing supplies, and assisting with the coordination of material billing.
• 5% Learning and developing proficiency in advanced machining, CAM consultations, and student project design under the guidance of Senior Machinist Technician.
• 5% Performs other tasks, duties, and responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of experience in a research environment.
• General experience working in a "hands-on" laboratory or workshop environment.
• Demonstrated experience operating milling machines and lathes in an academic, research, or equivalent environment is required.
• A Bachelor's degree in scientific field.
• Strongly prefer familiarity with CAD/CAM software (e.g., Fusion or SolidWorks) and a strong desire to master advanced machining and fabrication techniques. Experience teaching or mentoring in STEAM fields a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strongly prefer a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related technical field.
• Strongly prefer familiarity with CAD/CAM software (e.g., Fusion or SolidWorks) and a strong desire to master advanced machining and fabrication techniques. Experience teaching or mentoring in STEAM fields a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.