Experimental Machinist 3

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Adaptive Optics Associates – Xinetics (AOA Xinetics), a wholly-owned Northrop Grumman Space Systems, Payload and Ground Systems Division Business Unit, is currently seeking an experienced Machinist to support Xinetics activities in Devens MA. 

 

AOA Xinetics (AOX) designs, develops, and manufactures precision, advanced optical products and systems such as deformable mirrors, optical systems, adaptive optics control systems and silicon carbide optical structures for the U.S. Government, commercial customers, and U.S. defense prime and second-tier contractors. Markets for these technologies include civilian astronomy and semiconductor capital equipment as well as defense ISR and Directed Energy. 

 

Learn more about AOX at  https://www.northropgrumman.com/who-we-are/aoa-xinetics       

 

Overview 

 Reporting to the Shop Manager, the Experimental Machinist will be responsible for setting up, machining, deburring, handwork, and completing all documentation from start to finish. Working independently and within a group when required to get the job done. This position is for someone with a strong machining background who takes their job seriously and will enjoy working in a small shop, team environment where everyone is willing to help out wherever they are needed. 

We machine many different  types of materials from graphite, aluminum and steel, to grinding ceramics. The ideal candidate will have a programming and/or ceramic machining background have the ability to handle fragile components which are required during the build process and be able to physically set up and maneuver parts. 

 

  

Responsibilities: 

• Set up and operate a variety of machine tools, such as 3-Axis milling machines with Fanuc and Fadal controllers, Bridgeport with Proto trak, manual and CNC grinders, Mitsubishi wire EDM. 

• Conduct machine set-ups using provided CMM data or direction from Engineer, Manager or prints, setting up and selecting the correct tooling for the job, adjusting offsets and the ability to produce parts to match the prints 

• Interpret blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications, GD&T knowledge is a plus 

• Understanding and the ability to select the correct speeds and feeds for different materials, able to make soft jaws, clamps or other fixturing to hold odd shaped parts and able to hold tight tolerances 

• Use a variety of machinist hand tools and precision measuring instruments 

• Determine material, parts, and equipment required 

• Solve problems relative to work-holding arrangement, unusual materials, machine settings and tools 

• Maintain safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations 

• Maintain continuity with peers by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs, make suggestions for improving quality and production in a small shop environment 

 

Basic Qualifications: 

• High School Diploma or equivalent and 5+ years of manual  and/or CNC Machining experience  

• Ability to lay out own work and requiring minimal supervision 

• Ability to read and interpret drawings and blueprints 

• Use of basic hand tools 

• Strong attention to detail and good verbal/written communication skills 

• Proficient Microsoft Office skills 

• U.S. Citizenship is a requirement for employment 

  

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Proficiency with MasterCAM, SurfCAM, or equivalent CNC software 

• Someone who excels in a challenging environment with strong mechanical skills  

• Experience with GD&T dimensioning and tolerancing 

• Demonstrated experience in machining of ceramic and silicon carbide materials 

• Set up and operates a variety of machine tools 

• Ability to think through and machine parts that have multiple setups 

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Salary Range: $56,600 USD - $94,300 USD

Employees may be eligible for a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The health and safety of our employees and their families is a top priority. The company encourages employees to remain up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations. U.S. Northrop Grumman employees may be required, in the future, to be vaccinated or have an approved disability/medical or religious accommodation, pursuant to future court decisions and/or government action on the currently stayed federal contractor vaccine mandate under Executive Order 14042 https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/contractors/.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions.