Machinist Apprentice Program Instructor (Engineering Technologist 1)

About the Role

Prototype Fabrication is seeking a motivated individual to serve as an Instructor for the Machinist Apprentice Program (MAP). This competency-based program at Los Alamos National Laboratory trains apprentices to become skilled Journeyman Machinists, supporting current and emerging weapons program workforce needs. The instructor will provide focused on-the-job training and mentoring for first-year apprentices at a dedicated LANL shop facility.

Responsibilities

• Teach and mentor first-year apprentices in journeyman machinist skills, including machine shop safety, manual machining, CNC machining, and CAD/CAM for hardware fabrication.
• Instruct dimensional inspection techniques using open setups and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Compile and maintain training records for apprentices using appropriate tools and systems, including Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Research best practices and assist in updating the MAP curriculum while adhering to state guidelines.
• Communicate and mentor effectively, adapting teaching styles, providing constructive feedback, and promoting a respectful work environment.
• Support recruitment efforts at community colleges and high schools through presentations and outreach, requiring some travel.

Requirements

• Proficiency in a wide variety of journeyman machinist skills, including manual and CNC machining, CAD/CAM, and machine shop operations.
• Ability to teach dimensional inspection techniques, including the use of CMMs and GD&T.
• Strong mentorship and communication skills, with a flexible teaching style and conflict management abilities.
• Experience using resources to research best practices and update curriculum.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology, Science, Math, or a related field from an accredited institution, plus 2 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of JobBoss software.
• Working knowledge of CAD/CAM software.
• Formal experience as a Machinist Instructor in a state-accredited, competency-based machinist apprentice program.

Work Location

This position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Security & Citizenship

• Requires a Q clearance, which necessitates U.S. citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dual citizens may face additional authorization requirements.
• Selected applicants will undergo a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government.
• Due to federal restrictions, citizens of the People’s Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents are prohibited from accessing LANL facilities.

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• Award-winning 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contribution.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (for candidates outside a 50-mile radius).

Additional Notes

• Regular appointment employees must serve a 1-year commitment in this position before applying for other Laboratory jobs without documented approval from their Division Leader.
• The Laboratory requires a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy, including random drug testing. Federal law prohibits marijuana use, even if legalized by state law.