Machine Shop Manager Biomedical Engineer

Job ID: 2026-3824 | Location: Bethesda, MD (NIH/NHLBI)

About the Role

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The Part-Time Machine Shop Manager Biomedical Engineer will work with investigators to design, machine, fabricate, repair, and test custom parts, scientific instruments, and devices used in research and clinical applications. The position also supports machine shop operations, equipment maintenance, safety procedures, and user training.

Responsibilities

• Consult with researchers and engineers on instrumentation needs and use computer-aided design to draft parts and products.
• Design and fabricate custom mechanical, electromechanical, optical, and hydraulic instruments and devices for research and clinical applications.
• Manufacture and repair specialized laboratory equipment parts, component assemblies, and tooling fixtures.
• Evaluate design alternatives based on material properties, machining capabilities, and project specifications.
• Interpret blueprints, sketches, drawings, and photographs to fabricate, manufacture, or repair equipment using hand tools, power tools, and machine shop equipment.
• Maintain, repair, modify, install, and test electronic and mechanical components.
• Complete unscheduled service orders, including equipment calibration and electronic and mechanical repairs.
• Plan and carry out equipment modifications based on performance following initial use.
• Maintain milling machines, lathes, drill presses, band saws, associated tooling, and hand and power tools; replace tools as needed.
• Arrange and oversee equipment servicing and major repairs.
• Maintain machine shop organization, facility and equipment usage records, and compliance with safety regulations.
• Maintain and enforce standard operating procedures for machine shop equipment.
• Train users in safe equipment operation and assist users with device fabrication.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in materials engineering, materials science, or another engineering field.
• Minimum of 10 years of work experience.
• Experience working directly with scientists and engineers to design and build scientific instrumentation.
• Proficiency with machining and fabrication, including the use of milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and band saws.
• Knowledge of design and fabrication quality assurance and relevant industry practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Deliverables

• Perform validation activities as needed.
• Inspect equipment biweekly.
• Demonstrate machining competence and maintain the machine shop in working order through weekly deliverables.

Benefits

• 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational Benefits for Career Growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare (FSA), Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK), Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP), Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Pay

Hourly rate: $80 – $87 USD

Schedule

Part-time