Student Workshop Machinist

Description:

About us:

The Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering is world-renowned for its applied, immersive approach to teaching, with research that focuses on emerging topics including human factors, optimization, risk assessment, thermodynamics, biomechanics, robotics, microfluidics and sustainable energy. Our faculty are world leaders in their fields and bring a passion for education that fosters development of enriched courses and unique experiences across both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Your opportunity:

Our leadership team provides an open, professional environment that fosters a culture built on respect, goal orientation, self-motivation, accountability, and teamwork. We believe in recognizing and valuing our employee's contributions to the advancement of the department's goals while promoting a strong commitment to work-life balance among our employees. 

Under general direction of the Machine Shop Manager, the Student Workshop Machinist is responsible for all aspects of student workshop operations including safety training for students, development of safety rules and policies, enforcement of safe workshop practises, maintenance of equipment, tools and supplies, consulting for students, and providing day-to-day support for students. They assist students and research staff with mechanical design, materials selection and manufacturing methodologies related to the manufacture of scientific apparatus. Under direction of the Machine Shop Manager, they provide general support on contract machining jobs as time permits.

Hours of Work:

September through April - Monday to Friday 1pm to 9pm
May through August – Monday to Friday 8am-4pm

The machine shop staff design, machine, fabricate, install, maintain, and repair unique scientific devices, components and precision instruments for research purposes and undergraduate projects.  The incumbent will work with state-of-the-art equipment, utilizing both computer numerically controlled and manual machining equipment to create custom projects that support and enable groundbreaking research at the faculty. Learn more at:

Your responsibilities will include:

• Determining technical requirements for fabrication projects
• Designing, modifying and fabricating custom lab apparatus
• Creating and reviewing technical drawing sets for manufacturing
• Setting-up lab/workshop according to research and/or course schedules
• Maintaining equipment and supply inventory
• Preparing, assembling and setting-up material, equipment and supplies according to the needs of the facility
• Providing safety training and ensuring adherence to safety procedures and standards
• Scheduling health and safety training. Serving as a resource to a group or on a function

Essential Qualifications:

• College Diploma (2 years) or acceptable combination of equivalent experience. License of General Machinist, Tool and Die Maker or Mould Maker.
• Minimum of 8 years related experience, can include apprenticeship experience.
• Formal training in SolidWorks with at least 2 years' experience.
• Experience in programming and operation of computer numerically controlled machines(CNC) and computer aided design (CAD/CAM) to produce custom machined and fabricated components.
• Demonstrated advanced skills with a variety of different machines such as milling machines, lathes, saws, drills, grinders, cutting equipment, waterjet machines and laser cutter/engravers etc., as well as analog or digital measuring systems.
• High level of mechanical aptitude.
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the machinist trade.
• Ability to design complex science/engineering apparatus from verbal instructions and rough sketches.
• Ability to design, innovate, and work to close tolerances.
• Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise judgement, tact, diplomacy, and a high degree of initiative.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate, develop and direct the work of staff in a unionized environment.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
• Demonstrated interest in broadening one’s knowledge in techniques/tools and materials and a self-motivated learner.

Assets (Nonessential):

• Experience with Tig, Mig or Stick Welding especially with stainless steel, tool steel and aluminum.
• Prior experience teaching machine shop skills to students and/or apprentices.
• Experience monitoring students and/or apprentices closely to ensure their safety and prevent self-harm.

To be successful in this role you will be:

• Accountable
• Approachable
• Multi-tasker
• Proactive
• Problem solver
• Team player

Closing Date: 08/14/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: USW 
Appointment Type : Budget - Continuing 
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone:
USW Pay Band 14 -- $91,677. with an annual step progression to a maximum of $117,242. Pay scale and job class assignment is subject to determination pursuant to the Job Evaluation/Pay Equity Maintenance Protocol.
Job Category: Engineering / Technical

Lived Experience Statement
Candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity deserving groups are encouraged to apply, and their lived experience shall be taken into consideration as applicable to the posted position.

Job descriptions are available upon request for internal applicants.