Master Machinist
Last Energy
Austin, TX, USA
Posted 6+ months ago
Last Energy is seeking an exceptional, highly skilled, and reliable Master Machinist to serve as a technical expert and key contributor within our R&D team. This role is crucial for the rapid iteration, precision manufacturing, and quality control of components essential to our groundbreaking energy projects. The Master Machinist will take ownership of the machine shop, leading the fabrication of complex parts from concept to completion.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Lead Precision Machining & Fabrication: Independently set up, program, operate, and maintain a diverse range of precision machining and fabrication equipment, including advanced multi-axis CNC mills and lathes, EDM machines, laser cutters, and high-precision welding equipment
- Complex Component Manufacturing: Translate intricate technical drawings, CAD models, and engineering specifications into high-quality, precise components and complex fixtures, ensuring tolerances are met to the highest standards
- CNC Programming & Optimization: Develop, edit, and optimize CNC programs (using G-code or CAM software) to maximize efficiency, minimize material waste, and ensure the repeatability and accuracy of manufactured parts
- Quality Assurance & Inspection: Perform rigorous, high-precision quality control using advanced metrology tools (e.g., CMM, micrometers, calipers, gauges) to verify that all fabricated parts meet specified engineering requirements and tight tolerances
- Material Science Expertise: Advise on material selection, machinability, and tool selection for working with a variety of materials, including exotic alloys and high-performance composites relevant to our industry
- Shop Leadership & Safety: Establish and enforce best practices for shop operations, tool management, preventive maintenance, and strict adherence to all safety protocols, maintaining a world-class standard for cleanliness and organization
- Collaboration & Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Serve as the subject matter expert, proactively collaborating with Engineering and R&D teams to provide critical feedback on component design to improve manufacturability, reduce cost, and accelerate prototyping
- Troubleshooting & Equipment Management: Perform advanced troubleshooting and maintenance on all shop equipment, documenting repairs and coordinating external service when necessary to ensure maximum uptime
Qualifications
- Formal apprenticeship, Machinist Certification, or Associate's Degree in Machining Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or a related field is highly preferred
- Minimum 8+ years of professional experience operating and programming precision machine tools, with at least 3 years as a lead or senior machinist
- Expert-level proficiency in CNC programming (G-code and conversational/CAM software, e.g., Fusion 360, Mastercam).
- Demonstrated mastery of manual machining techniques (lathes, mills) and advanced shop math
- Exceptional ability to read, interpret, and work from complex engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
- Proficiency with sophisticated metrology equipment and inspection processes
- Exceptional attention to detail, precision, and a commitment to quality
- Proven ability to work independently, manage the machine shop, and mentor junior staff if necessary
- Proactive problem-solver with a strong, hands-on work ethic in a fast-paced R&D environment
- Advanced CAD/CAM proficiency is required
- Shop floor interface/DNC experience is required
- Knowledge of specialized welding (TIG/MIG) and/or laser cutting is a significant asset