National Radio Astronomy Observatory · 4 months ago
Machinist, Shop Technical Specialist I-III (100)
NRAO Very Large Array, Magdalena, New Mexico, United States of America
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
2+ years expThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. They are seeking a Machinist/Shop Technical Specialist to support the Very Large Array (VLA) Machine Shop, where the specialist will perform setup and operation of manual and CNC machine tools and welding equipment, along with routine maintenance and collaboration with team members.
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Responsibilities
Sets up, adjusts and operates a variety of precision tool room equipment including but not limited to mill, lathe and CNC machines
Interprets blueprints, sketches and drawings
Produces parts from a variety of raw materials
Must be able to meet specified tolerances
Understands and uses a variety of precision measuring equipment
Produces all types of surface finishes, as directed
Uses a variety of chemicals including solvents and dyes
Works closely with other department members, Technicians and Engineers, as directed
Documents changes necessitated during fabrication
Teach and lead other Shop Technicians/Trainees
Works within and meets established deadlines
Uses CAD/CAM software and performs CNC programming as required
Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
You have a high school diploma or GED
You have at least two or more years of relevant experience
Strong verbal communication skills are necessary for effective consultations with coworkers
Ability to read and interpret documents such as schematics, blueprints, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
Must be able to use the NRAO online time reporting and requisition system
Must be able to communicate clearly and in writing
Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color and depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected
Preferred
While not required, you may have an advanced degree in closely related field
Applicants with five or more years of related technical experience may be considered for higher grade classifications within the job family
Benefits
Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave)
Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment
AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution
Optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions
Company
National Radio Astronomy Observatory
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement.
201-500 employees
H1B Sponsorship
National Radio Astronomy Observatory has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
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Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (20)
2024 (14)
2023 (12)
2022 (17)
2021 (11)
2020 (16)
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageRecent News
2026-01-12
PhysOrg.com
2026-01-07
2025-08-02
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