Last Energy is a pioneering US technology company deploying next-generation modular nuclear power plants. We are seeking a highly skilled and results-driven Senior CNC Machinist to serve as a technical expert within our R&D team. This role requires an experienced builder and doer to operate autonomously, taking ownership of complex part fabrication critical to our fleet-wide product. Your work will directly support high-throughput manufacturing and rapid deployment strategies, demanding speed, ingenuity, and accountability.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Precision Machining Leadership: Lead design and execution on complex component fabrication by independently setting up, programming, operating, and maintaining advanced precision machining equipment, including multi-axis CNC mills and lathes, laser cutters, and high-precision welding equipment
CNC Programming & Optimization: Drive concept development into reality by developing, editing, and optimizing CNC programs (G-code or CAM software) to maximize efficiency, ensure repeatability, and maintain quality critical for nuclear-grade components
Quality Assurance & Inspection: Oversee the fabrication process by performing rigorous, high-precision quality control using advanced metrology tools (CMM, gauges) to verify parts meet specified engineering requirements and tight geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) standards
DFM Collaboration: Collaborate daily with engineers and leadership on the company’s most urgent fabrication priorities, providing technical insights to streamline designs, improve manufacturability, and accelerate deployment timelines
Tooling & Fixtures: Design, develop, and implement advanced fixtures, tooling, and manufacturing aids to streamline assembly and test operations for maximum scalability
Shop Management: Operate autonomously by establishing and enforcing best practices for all shop operations, advanced tool management, preventive maintenance, and strict adherence to safety protocols
Equipment Expertise: Perform advanced troubleshooting and maintenance on all shop equipment, documenting repairs and coordinating external service when necessary to ensure maximum machine uptime
Qualifications
Experience & Education: Minimum 8+ years of hands-on mechanical fabrication and precision machining experience, with at least 3 years at a lead or senior level in a high-growth, high-urgency environment. Formal apprenticeship or Machinist Certification highly preferred
Technical Expertise: Deep proficiency in CNC programming (G-code and CAM software), advanced shop mathematics, and complex blueprint reading (including GD&T)
Prototyping Skill: Proven ability to turn concepts into tested prototypes quickly, managing complex fabrication projects from concept to reality with minimal oversight
Communication: Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, especially when interfacing with engineers and cross-functional teams on urgent technical challenges
Drive: A bias toward action, creative problem solving, and the drive to own complex fabrication problems end-to-end in a fast-paced environment
Advanced CAD/CAM proficiency is required
Experience advising on material science, machinability, and tool selection for specialized alloys is a plus
Knowledge of specialized welding (TIG/MIG) is a significant asset
Previous experience as a Machine Shop Supervisor or Lead CNC Machinist is preferred