CNC Machinist - Manufacturing Coordinator

at Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas, United States

Job Description

Job Story

WSU needs an experienced Machinist for our lab!! We want someone who loves to experiment, problem-solve, and continuously refine their craft. You should be excited about tackling the "impossible,” pushing the limits of what’s possible. We need your hands-on expertise at our machining lab, teaching students the fundamentals of CNC operations, lathe setup, and machining configurations. This role isn’t about grading papers—it’s about getting in the shop, guiding students through real-world challenges, and helping them understand the intricate process of taking a design from concept to reality.

This position is similar to R&D in machine shops—you’ll collaborate with engineers and faculty to develop, refine, and test machining processes. From planning weekly lab activities with your team to ensure safe and efficient machine operations, you’ll be instrumental in preparing students for careers in advanced manufacturing. They will not only learn how to operate CNC equipment but will also gain insight into material selection, cost considerations, and design feasibility, all under your expert guidance. Beyond the classroom, you’ll work closely with faculty on research and/or prototype development, allowing us to test our design ideas more efficiently. Proving nothing is “impossible” for you!

Job Summary

Oversees the setup, operation, and maintenance of computer numerical control (CNC) machining, fabrication, and inspection tools to support teaching, research, and applied learning initiatives. Works as part of a professional team, fabricates high-precision components, conducts quality assurance, trains faculty and teaching assistants, and ensures compliance with safety regulations. Develops training materials, assists with equipment acquisition, supervises student employees, and analyzes utilization data to optimize processes and improve efficiency.

Essential Functions

• Directs setup, operation, and maintenance of various machining and inspection tools assigned in support of teaching, research, and applied learning initiatives.
• Machines and fabricates components by preparing and operating machining tools; works from complex drawings, prototype sketches, electronic files and/or verbal instructions.
• Completes regular quality assurance checks on assigned equipment to ensure proper operation and compliance to machine tolerances and specifications.
• Works as part of a professional team to provide technical expertise, instructional support, and manufacturing services to students, faculty, and staff in support of teaching, research, and applied learning objectives.
• Assists in the development of laboratory instruction covering machine programming, setup, operations, and documentation for Manufacturing Methods and Materials I/II, as well as other engineering courses. Develops and delivers hands-on training to for graduate teaching assistants, graduate research assistants, and faculty in preparation for laboratory coursework and research activities.
• Develops operational training manuals for equipment within assigned facilities in support of the teaching and research activities.
• Collect and analyze machine utilization data to identify opportunities for process optimization, equipment upgrades, and cost-efficiency improvements.
• Ensures all machining operations comply with safety regulations, conducts regular safety training, and maintains up-to-date safety documentation.

Job Duties

• Responsible for production of high precision components and performs complex setups required to produce parts.
• Troubleshoots equipment errors, programs, and/or products; detects equipment malfunctions and works with the operations support team to accomplish necessary repairs.
• Assist in the specification, acquisition, and installation of equipment needed to support teaching and research activities within assigned facilities.
• Perform and coordinate safe operation of machining, educating students about safety aspects.
• Conduct/Attend weekly design planning meetings for lab activities and use.
• Participate in research related machining/manufacturing assembly reviews and testing.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Committed to working with people from all backgrounds and possessing different skill sets found in an academic facility.
• Effective communication skills.
• Knowledge of and priority given to laboratory safety requirements.
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and supervision.