Tool & Instrument Maker

About the role

The Facilities & Operations (F&O) Directorate supports the science, technology, and environmental restoration missions of the Laboratory by providing safe, environmentally sound, and reliable infrastructure, high-quality crafts and fabrication services, and protection of people, property, and national security. The Production Division provides mechanical, architectural, and civil services to build, support, and maintain the Lab's infrastructure, and facilitates shipping, receiving, inventory control, and movement of small equipment and office setups.

The Tool and Instrument Maker fabricates, modifies, repairs, and assembles precision tools, instruments, fixtures, and components to support laboratory, research, and operational needs. This position reports to the Machine Shop Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Fabricates, modifies, and repairs precision tools, instruments, fixtures, components, and assemblies using a variety of materials and working from engineering drawings, sketches, specifications, or verbal instructions.
• Sets up and operates conventional and CNC machine tools, including benchtop grinders; programs parts using Mastercam and enters or uploads CNC programs into menu-driven and Fanuc-type controls; and performs precision benchwork, including machining, fitting, drilling, grinding, and finishing.
• Independently determines appropriate machining methods, tooling, work holding, and sequence of operations for complex or non-routine assignments where established procedures or standards may not exist.
• Performs layout, material preparation, setup, precision measurement, assembly, testing, and installation to ensure work meets required tolerances and quality standards.
• Designs and fabricates specialized tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and other shop aids needed to complete assigned work safely and efficiently.
• Performs routine maintenance and adjustments on assigned machines, tools, and equipment, and may develop specialized expertise in a particular machining process, material, or technical area.
• Calculates and sets controls to regulate machining factors such as speed, feed, and coolant flow.
• Operates industrial rigging, hoisting, and mobile cranes to load material into machinery.

Requirements

• High School diploma, GED, or higher.
• Mastercam Certification or training in CNC operations.
• Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience on various CNC/NC equipment.
• Able to monitor displays, override controls, and adjust machine performance.
• Ability to select and install tooling as required.
• Knowledge of various materials and their machining characteristics to determine appropriate cutting feeds and speeds.
• Must have a telephone and must provide the number to BNL for callout and contact purposes.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, including ability to follow written instructions, procedures, and work orders; ability to sufficiently write/complete work orders and other required documents; ability to communicate verbally with fellow workers and supervisors.
• Must be able to complete all requirements of the Job Training Assessment.
• Possess a valid NYS driver’s license.

Preferred qualifications

• Knowledge