Toolmaker

About the role

Join our R&D Machine Shop team at Bluefors in Syracuse, NY. In this role, you will support the development of innovative cryogenic products by producing prototype parts, tooling, and components used to validate new concepts and designs. This is an opportunity for a skilled machinist who enjoys precision work, problem-solving, and contributing to cutting-edge technology in a collaborative research and development environment.

Responsibilities

• Study blueprints, sketches, models, and verbal instructions to determine the materials, tooling, and machining processes required to fabricate prototype and custom parts.
• Set up and operate manual machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, grinders, and other equipment, while maintaining precise tolerances and verifying conformance to specifications.
• Perform hand and bench work as needed to complete products.
• Create specialized tooling for manufacturing and R&D applications.
• Modify existing parts according to engineering instructions.
• Support departments by meeting project deadlines, maintaining accurate records, performing housekeeping, and preventive machine maintenance.
• Adhere to Bluefors quality and safety standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Completion of apprentice training or equivalent combination of education and hands-on machining experience.
• Five or more years of machining experience in a job shop or prototype environment preferred.
• Experience machining materials such as copper and stainless steel.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and written or verbal instructions.
• Familiarity with GD&T principles preferred.
• Ability to set up and use measuring tools accurately.
• Strong math skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Dependability, adaptability, and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Commitment to safety and alignment with company values.
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken.

Skills

• Experience supporting research and development or prototype machining projects.
• Ability to create custom tooling and fixtures for specialized applications.
• Experience troubleshooting machining and fabrication challenges.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Willingness to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Positive, proactive attitude and flexibility in a fast-paced environment.
• Team-oriented mindset with strong collaboration skills.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Long- and short-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Training and tuition reimbursement.
• Vacation and Paid Time Off (PTO).

Pay

$25.00 – $35.00 per hour, depending on experience.

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to stand, reach with arms and hands, and use hand and finger dexterity.
• Occasionally required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk and hear.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

This role operates in a manufacturing environment. The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and may occasionally be exposed to humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, heat, cold, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately loud. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as applicable.