CNC Machinist – Prototype Fabrication (CNC Mills, Lathes & EDM)

🔎At a Glance

Company: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Location: Los Alamos, NM (On-site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $54,900 – $84,300 per year (based on experience)
Shift: Day Shift (Schedule determined by department)
Overtime: As Needed
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2+ years)
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizenship required to obtain security clearance
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain DOE Q Clearance required

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Why This Role Exists

As national security programs continue to evolve, Los Alamos National Laboratory is expanding its Prototype Fabrication Division to support the machining of highly specialized components critical to the Laboratory's mission. This role plays an important part in manufacturing precision parts used in advanced scientific research, engineering development, and national defense programs.

This is an opportunity to work on unique, technically challenging projects where craftsmanship, precision, and problem-solving are valued every day.

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What You'll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

• Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, EDM equipment, and manual machine tools
• Manufacture precision prototype and production components from engineering drawings, sketches, and CAD models
• Perform machine setups, tooling changes, workholding verification, and offset adjustments
• Create or modify CNC programs, CAD/CAM files, and G-code as required
• Produce complex parts from a variety of materials while maintaining tight tolerances
• Perform first-article, in-process, and final inspections using precision measurement equipment
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements
• Collaborate with engineers, programmers, inspectors, and fellow machinists to support project goals
• Work safely in both classified and unclassified manufacturing environments
• Support a wide variety of fabrication projects for internal and external customers

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Machines, Controls & Software

You'll work with equipment such as:

Machines

• CNC Mills
• CNC Lathes
• Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM)
• Manual Machine Tools

Controls & Programming

• CNC Programming (G & M Code)
• CAD/CAM Programming

Software

• SolidWorks (preferred)
• Mastercam (preferred)

Inspection Equipment

• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Precision Measurement Tools
• Shop Inspection Equipment

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Materials You'll Work With

• Aluminum
• Stainless Steel
• Alloy Steels
• Specialty Engineering Materials
• Prototype and Exotic Materials Used in Research Applications

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What We're Looking For

Required

• Associate Degree in Machining Technology, Precision Metalworking, or equivalent and 2+ years of related experience

OR

• 4+ years of prototype machining experience

OR

• Completion of a Journeyperson qualification program plus 2 years of experience
• Experience setting up and operating CNC mills and lathes
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, offsets, and material properties
• Ability to perform precision measurements using standard inspection tools
• Experience using manual machining equipment
• Strong shop math skills
• Reliable, safety-focused, and team-oriented mindset

Preferred

• SolidWorks experience
• Mastercam experience
• GD&T interpretation to ASME Y14.5 standards
• Experience creating CAD/CAM files
• Prototype machining experience in a high-precision environment

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Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose Los Alamos National Laboratory because:

• Work on projects that directly support national security and advanced scientific research
• Exposure to unique prototype and one-off machining challenges
• Access to advanced equipment and manufacturing technologies
• Stable, long-term career opportunities
• Strong emphasis on safety and craftsmanship
• Collaborative team environment with highly skilled technical professionals
• Opportunities for continued learning and career development
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates

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Pay, Benefits & Schedule

Pay Range

$54,900 – $84,300 per year (DOE)

Benefits

• Medical insurance (PPO and High Deductible options)
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid parental leave
• 401(k) with 6% matching plus additional annual contribution
• Tuition assistance and professional development programs
• Paid time off and holidays
• Onsite fitness and wellness facilities
• Relocation assistance for eligible candidates

Schedule

• Full-Time
• On-Site in Los Alamos, NM
• Overtime as needed based on project requirements

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Security Clearance Requirements

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q Clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required except under extremely limited circumstances. Candidates must successfully complete background screening and pre-employment drug testing.

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Apply Today

If you're a CNC machinist who enjoys precision work, prototype manufacturing, and solving complex machining challenges, this is an opportunity to build parts that support some of the most advanced scientific and national security programs in the United States.

👉 Apply through hireCNC today.