Machinist (West Lafayette, IN, US) presso Purdue University

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Machinist
Department of Physics and Astronomy – Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN

Purdue University invites applications for a Senior Machinist to join the Department of [X]. This pivotal role supports both the teaching mission of the department and the advancement of groundbreaking research. More than a technical role, it is an opportunity to directly shape the future of discovery by teaching, supporting, and enabling world-class scholars.

What You’ll Do

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  Teach hands-on machining skills to doctoral students in experimentalist fields, directly supporting their academic and professional growth
• Manufacture custom components for principal investigators (PIs) and their research teams to advance diverse, high-impact research projects
• Supervise and maintain departmental machine shop operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with standards
• Operate, maintain, and repair vital machine equipment to keep research on track and minimize downtime across multiple labs, projects, and grants
• Lead problem-solving efforts to support innovation and research productivity
• Manage shop resources, workflow, and safety training for students and staff

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in machining, equipment maintenance, and shop supervision
• Demonstrated ability to train and mentor students or staff in machining skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities to support complex research and design needs
• Commitment to safety, precision, and collaborative teamwork
• Experience in an academic, research, or advanced manufacturing environment preferred

Why Purdue?

At Purdue University, your expertise fuels discovery. In this role, you’ll:

• Advance innovation by enabling scientists and engineers to design and test their ideas at the cutting edge of technology
• Shape the next generation by teaching students essential hands-on skills for research and professional success
• Join a collaborative community where your contributions are valued, and your work has direct impact on research that addresses global challenges
• Grow with us in an environment that supports skill development, professional growth, and pride in meaningful work
• Your precision, leadership, and craftsmanship will help ensure Purdue’s reputation as a leader in teaching, research, and real-world problem solving

Apply today and bring your skills to a role where they shape the future of discovery.

About Us

The Department of Physics and Astronomy has a rich and long history dating back to the latter part of the 19th century. Our faculty and students are exploring nature at all length scales, from the subatomic (quarks and gluons) to the macroscopic (black holes and dark energy), and everything in between (atomic and biological systems).

When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE)
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience with machining design, machining production, reading blueprints and schematics, managing software and data interpretation

Preferred:

• Teaching, training, and maintaining proper safety protocol in a machine shop environment

Skills Needed:

• Requires deep knowledge of machine equipment and processes, including computer controls

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 3

• Pay Band S060
• Job Code #20002792

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

EOE

Purdue University is an EOE employer.