Machinist

Job Details

Date: Jan 12, 2026

Location: Lexington, MA, US

Company: MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Job Title: CNC Machinist

Group: 72 - Fabrication Engineering

MIT Lincoln Laboratory pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to design, model, and fabricate technologies and prototype systems for national security applications. These mission areas include space imaging and data processing, high energy lasers, long‑range laser communications, ground‑based radars, and undersea communication terminals. Within MIT Lincoln Laboratory, the Fabrication Engineering Group works with program teams from initial design through manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing to fabricate low‑volume advanced hardware.

Our core PCB capabilities include automated solder paste printing, precision pick‑and‑place machines, and automated optical inspection systems. Our core mechanical competencies span precision fabrication, diamond turning, EDM machining, additive manufacturing, and 5‑axis machining. Our core assembly, integration, and test capabilities include program integration spaces, clean rooms, vibration testing, and space simulation chambers. The Group concentrates on high‑complexity parts, state‑of‑the‑practice prototyping capabilities, technical excellence, quality systems for national security applications, and exceptional collaboration.

The ideal candidate is a talented, creative, and motivated machinist with a strong aptitude for problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, and excellent interpersonal, verbal/written communication, and time‑management skills. This individual demonstrates enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to continuously learn and expand their skillsets.

The candidate will be responsible for CNC programming, setup, operation, teardown, cleanup, and maintenance of equipment while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized workspace. This role supports an R&D environment focused on high‑precision, low‑volume prototype development of technology with national importance. The position may occasionally require extended hours (overtime) to meet critical program milestones.

Candidates with expertise in either CNC milling or CNC turning are strongly encouraged to apply. Machinists at the A‑level are expected to independently develop fabrication strategies, identify and communicate tooling requirements, design and build custom fixtures, and collaborate with engineers and other machinists on complex or challenging hardware as needed. The flexibility required for prototype development will likely require the candidate to eventually expand their expertise into both milling and turning operations.

Opportunities exist to learn and apply additional manufacturing technologies including additive manufacturing (metal and polymer), electrical discharge machining (EDM), diamond turning, and other advanced fabrication methods.

• 6-15 years of direct experience in subtractive manufacturing with hands‑on experience in milling, turning, or a combination of both
• Demonstrated expertise with CNC programming and operation experience with CNC milling and/or turning with the ability and willingness to expand into both CNC milling and CNC turning
• Experience with manual machining equipment
• Strong ability to read mechanical drawings and apply GD&T
• Ability to design and fabricate basic fixtures
• Experience with the following software types:
  • CAM software
  • 3D CAD software
  • MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Proficiency using hand tools and inspection equipment (e.g., calipers, micrometers, thread/pin gages, dial indicators, pistol drills)
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment with minimal supervision
• Self‑motivated and enthusiastic about supporting novel prototype development in an R&D setting
• Willingness to learn new fabrication techniques, machine tools, and technologies
• Commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work area
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

• Graduation from a two‑year technical school or equivalent training
• Experience in a high‑mix, low‑volume job shop or R&D prototype environment
• Experience with CNC turning with live tooling
• Experience…