Research Machinist

Position Summary

The Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University is seeking a Research Machinist in Harbor Branch Fort Pierce, FL. FAU Harbor Branch, located in Ft. Pierce, is a research institute focusing on marine science and oceanography with over 200 scientists, staff and students that work and study at the site. The Research Machinist provides specialized machining and fabrication support for oceanographic research at the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute.

Summary of Responsibilities

• Machining Operations and Equipment:
  • Responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC milling and turning equipment using CAD/CAM software, as well as operating manual machinery.
  • Collaborates with FAU HBOI engineers, scientists, and clients to develop, manufacture, and test advanced oceanographic equipment and instrumentation.
  • Contributes manufacturing insights and technical guidance to refine early-stage design concepts.
  • Provides manufacturing advice to researchers designing proof-of-concept prototypes.
• Coordinating and Planning:
  • Performs tasks related to planning, building, and testing oceanographic equipment, and makes independent decisions on fabrication when necessary.
  • Prepares manufacturing time estimates for project scheduling and procurement.
  • Creates and maintains production schedules.
• Preventive Maintenance and Repairs:
  • Performs preventative equipment maintenance and coordinates required repairs.
  • Maintains a safe, clean work environment in compliance with FAU HBOI health and safety regulations.
• Other Job-Related Duties:
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

FAU Benefits And Perks

Working at FAU has its perks! In addition to helping drive change and having a positive impact by supporting our students, staff, and faculty, FAU offers: Excellent benefit packages including Medical (PPO/HMO $50 per month single & $180 per month family), Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending plans, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and much more. State retirement options including tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans. State employees Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Sick Leave Pool Program. Paid time off (eligible employees) including vacation and sick leave, 1 personal day, 9 paid holidays, and paid winter break (at President’s discretion). Paid Community Engagement Volunteer Service Day Employee Educational Scholarship Program (EESP) for eligible Staff/Faculty - Tuition assistance after 6 months of full-time employment. For in-unit faculty, the EESP program may be extended to spouses and dependent children (eligibility rules apply).

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of an approved machinist apprenticeship program; or a high school diploma and five years of appropriate experience including CNC Machine programing of mill and lathe, setup and operation of CNC mill and lathe, and manual mill and lathe experience required.
• Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Must have valid Florida Driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Basic knowledge of machining plastics and aluminum.
• Able to read and interpret design blueprints and mechanical drawings.
• Able to communicate effectively with all levels of employees and managers.
• Able to work flexible schedule as determined by supervisor.
• Generate designs and blueprints using CAD software.
• Program and operate CNC machining equipment.

Salary

$28.00-$32.00 per hour

College or Department

HBOI: Engineering Services

Location

Harbor Branch (HBOI)

Work Days and Hours

Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM -5:00 PM

Application Deadline

2026-07-21