Senior CNC Machinist

Job description

Last Energy is a pioneering US technology company deploying next-generation modular nuclear power plants. We are seeking a highly skilled and results-driven **Senior CNC Machinist** to serve as a technical expert within our R&D team. This role requires an experienced **builder and doer** to **operate autonomously**, taking ownership of complex part fabrication critical to our fleet-wide product. Your work will directly support high-throughput manufacturing and rapid deployment strategies, demanding **speed, ingenuity, and accountability**. ### Key Duties & Responsibilities - **Precision Machining Leadership: Lead design and execution** on complex component fabrication by independently setting up, programming, operating, and maintaining advanced precision machining equipment, including multi-axis CNC mills and lathes, laser cutters, and high-precision welding equipment - **CNC Programming & Optimization: Drive concept development** into reality by developing, editing, and optimizing CNC programs (G-code or CAM software) to maximize efficiency, ensure repeatability, and maintain quality critical for nuclear-grade components - **Quality Assurance & Inspection:** Oversee the fabrication process by performing rigorous, high-precision quality control using advanced metrology tools (CMM, gauges) to verify parts meet specified engineering requirements and **tight geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)** standards - **DFM Collaboration:** Collaborate daily with engineers and leadership on the company’s most urgent fabrication priorities, providing **technical insights** to streamline designs, improve manufacturability, and accelerate deployment timelines - **Tooling & Fixtures:** Design, develop, and implement advanced **fixtures, tooling, and manufacturing aids** to streamline assembly and test operations for maximum scalability - **Shop Management: Operate autonomously** by establishing and enforcing best practices for all shop operations, advanced tool management, preventive maintenance, and strict adherence to safety protocols - **Equipment Expertise:** Perform advanced troubleshooting and maintenance on all shop equipment, documenting repairs and coordinating external service when necessary to ensure maximum machine uptime - Other duties as assigned ### Qualifications - **Experience & Education:** Minimum **8+ years of hands-on mechanical fabrication and precision machining experience**, with at least 3 years at a lead or senior level in a **high-growth, high-urgency environment**. Formal apprenticeship or Machinist Certification highly preferred - **Technical Expertise:** Deep proficiency in **CNC programming** (G-code and CAM software), advanced shop mathematics, and complex blueprint reading (including GD&T) - **Prototyping Skill:** Proven ability to **turn concepts into tested prototypes quickly**, managing complex fabrication projects from concept to reality with minimal oversight - **Communication:** Exceptional **communication and collaboration skills**, especially when interfacing with engineers and cross-functional teams on urgent technical challenges - **Drive:** A **bias toward action**, creative problem solving, and the drive to **own complex fabrication problems end-to-end** in a fast-paced environment - *Advanced CAD/CAM proficiency is required* - *Experience advising on material science, machinability, and tool selection for specialized alloys is a plus* - *Knowledge of specialized welding (TIG/MIG) is a significant asset* - *Previous experience as a Machine Shop Supervisor or Lead CNC Machinist is preferred*