Job Description

Job Location IALR CMA - Danville, VA 24540 Position Type Full Time Education Level 2 Year Degree Travel Percentage Up to 25% Job Shift Any Job Category Manufacturing

Due to the nature of the work performed, only U.S. citizens will be considered for this position. This role is not eligible for remote work and will be based onsite in Danville, Virginia.

About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The mission will be accomplished through applied research, advanced learning, economic development, advanced manufacturing, and conference services. Driving Economic Transformation is at the heart of everything we do at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. WE discover breakthroughs, create opportunity, grow innovation, power progress, and host greatness. Each of our divisions plays a critical role in preserving and delivering this mission daily.

About the Role

This is an advanced level CNC Machinist / Programmer role that is responsible for independently setting up, programming, and operating complex CNC machining equipment with minimal supervision. This position is expected to work autonomously, provide technical guidance to peers, troubleshoot machining challenges, and drive continuous improvement initiatives for manufacturing processes.

This position will work a second shift schedule.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Independently set up, program, and operate multi-axis milling machines, dual-spindle lathes, mill/turn centers, Wire EDM, and other advanced CNC equipment.
• Create, optimize, and validate CNC programs using Autodesk Fusion 360, Siemens NX, or comparable CAD/CAM software with little to no technical support.
• Design and document advanced machining processes, including toolpath optimization, workholding strategies, and process standardization for repeatability and efficiency.
• Perform detailed first-article, in-process, and final inspections using CMMs, 3D scanners, and precision metrology tools. Lead root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions when quality issues arise.
• Diagnose and resolve complex machine, tool, and process issues. Conduct advanced preventative maintenance, machine calibrations, and recommend upgrades to improve performance.
• Provide technical support, training, and guidance to junior machinists and apprentices, helping build team skill levels.
• Lead projects to improve cycle times, reduce scrap, and enhance process capability.
• Ensure strict adherence to ITAR, ISO, and ANSI requirements. Maintain detailed documentation for audits and process traceability.
• Work with CMA staff, engineers, and external stakeholders to deliver machining projects on schedule and within specification.
• Promote and uphold a culture of safety and maintain a clean, organized work environment.

Work Location

We are looking for staff to work onsite in Danville, VA.

The Ideal Candidate

• Education Associate’s degree or diploma in Precision Machining Technology is required.
• Experience Minimum of 5 years of progressive CNC machining experience, including advanced setup and programming of multi-axis operations. Proven track record of independently delivering complex machining projects. Experience in ITAR-regulated or ISO-certified environments strongly preferred.
• Expert-level understanding of CNC machining principles, multi-axis programming, and precision manufacturing.
• Advanced CAD/CAM proficiency with the ability to program from complex models and technical drawings.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for machine, tooling, and process-related issues.
• Skilled in process optimization, fixture design, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of documenting processes and collaborating with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Highly detail-oriented, organized, and capable of multitasking in a dynamic work environment.
• Effective team player with a collaborative mindset.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel throughout Virginia, with occasional out-of-state travel.

Essential Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs

• Skilled in using basic hand tools

• Capable of frequent movement within a lab setting

• Comfortable using stepladders and operating technical equipment

Salary & Benefits

IALR will offer a salary of $75,000 - $85,000 plus applicable shift differential. IALR offers unique career opportunities in an innovative environment, all to support the economic transformation of Southern Virginia. Eligible employees are afforded excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage with lower-than-expected costs and participate in the Virginia Retirement System to save for their future.

IALR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact hr@ialr.org. Requests will be kept confidential and handled in accordance with applicable laws.