5-Axis Machinist & Programmer

Title: 5-Axis Machinist & Programmer (Contract-to-Hire)

Hiring Organization: Connexion Systems & Engineering

Compensation, Benefits, and Employment Type

• Duration: 6- month contract, possible temp to perm
• Pay rate: $45 - $60/hr
• Job Location: Lexington, MA
• Schedule: M-F, 1^st shift
• Job#: bh18702
• Security Requirement: Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (interim clearance acceptable to start)

Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled 5-Axis Machinist & Programmer to support advanced R&D prototype development in a government-funded research laboratory environment.

This is a low-volume, high-mix prototype shop — not production machining. Typical builds range from 2–5 parts (occasionally 20–40), with new designs introduced every 1–2 weeks. This role is ideal for a senior-level machinist who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys solving complex fabrication challenges, and prefers ownership of the full machining lifecycle.

This is a 6-month contract with strong intent to convert to a staff position. Conversion is the preferred outcome at 6 months (based on performance and headcount). One potential 6-month extension may occur, but no extensions beyond 12 months.

Upon conversion, this position becomes part of the Research, Development & Technical Employees Union (RDTEU). Candidates must be willing to join the union.

What You’ll Do

• Own the end-to-end fabrication lifecycle of complex parts
• Develop machining strategy and approach
• Create CAM programs
• Design and fabricate fixtures
• Perform setup, tooling selection, and machine operation
• Inspect parts using standard metrology equipment
• Participate in manufacturability reviews
• Collaborate with engineers and mentor junior machinists
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace

This is a highly autonomous role — you will operate independently while collaborating cross-functionally when needed.

Non-Negotiable Requirements

• Strong simultaneous 5-axis machining experience
• Hands-on experience with:
• • Programming
  • Setup
  • Operation
  • End-to-end part execution
• Ability to read mechanical drawings and interpret GD&T
• Experience designing and fabricating basic fixtures
• Proficiency with inspection tools (micrometers, dial indicators, calipers, thread/pin gages, etc.)
• Experience with CAM and 3D CAD software
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Must be eligible to obtain a Secret clearance

Note: While the posting may reference 10+ years of experience, depth of true simultaneous 5-axis experience matters more than total years. Candidates with ~5 years of strong, hands-on 5-axis experience in a job shop or R&D setting are encouraged to apply.

Preferred (Trainable) Skills

• hyperMILL CAM software
• Heidenhain iTNC 530 controller
• SolidWorks
• High-mix, low-volume job shop experience
• Machining exotic materials (Titanium, Invar, Hastelloy, 17-4 PH, MMCs, fiber-reinforced composites)
• Model-Based Definition (MBD)
• PLM systems (Aras Innovator)
• On-machine inspection (m&h probing)
• Exposure to ultrasonic machining

Work Environment

• Advanced R&D / prototype lab setting
• Sub-thousandth tolerances common
• Frequent collaboration with engineering teams
• Complex, high-precision national security applications
• Constant variety and technical challenge

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior machinist who enjoys tackling first-of-their-kind builds and contributing to technically ambitious programs.

Important Compensation & Union Details

• Candidates must be comfortable within this pay range upon conversion
• Union membership (RDTEU) required upon hire
• This is not a traditional construction trade union

If you are a highly capable 5-axis machinist who wants ownership, technical challenge, and the opportunity to convert into a long-term role supporting cutting-edge R&D hardware, we encourage you to apply.