What are the responsibilities and job description for the Machinist position at Discovery 2 Scale, Inc.?
Company Description Discovery 2 Scale, Inc. (D2S) is a materials-focused company that bridges the gap between scientific discovery and scalable manufacturing. Founded by materials scientists and engineers with over 50 years of combined experience, D2S specializes in turning advanced materials concepts into qualified, certified, and reproducible solutions. The company’s platform integrates physics-informed AI, materials expertise, autonomous experimentation, robotics, mechanical testing, and manufacturing to address manufacturability early in the development process. With roots in national security, D2S supports defense, aerospace, energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors where materials performance is mission-critical. The organization is committed to building autonomous infrastructure that discovers, makes, tests, qualifies, and scales materials for real-world applications.
Role Description The Machinist role at Discovery 2 Scale, Inc. is a full-time, on-site position based in Los Alamos, NM. The Machinist will set up, operate, and maintain a variety of manual and CNC machine tools to fabricate precision components used in advanced materials research, testing, and production. Day-to-day responsibilities include reading and interpreting engineering drawings, selecting appropriate tooling and materials, performing machining operations, and verifying part dimensions using inspection tools. The Machinist will collaborate closely with engineers, technicians, and researchers to support experimental setups, prototype builds, and small-batch manufacturing. Additional duties include routine equipment maintenance, adherence to safety protocols, documentation of machining processes, and continuous improvement of workflows and quality standards.
Qualifications
Role Description The Machinist role at Discovery 2 Scale, Inc. is a full-time, on-site position based in Los Alamos, NM. The Machinist will set up, operate, and maintain a variety of manual and CNC machine tools to fabricate precision components used in advanced materials research, testing, and production. Day-to-day responsibilities include reading and interpreting engineering drawings, selecting appropriate tooling and materials, performing machining operations, and verifying part dimensions using inspection tools. The Machinist will collaborate closely with engineers, technicians, and researchers to support experimental setups, prototype builds, and small-batch manufacturing. Additional duties include routine equipment maintenance, adherence to safety protocols, documentation of machining processes, and continuous improvement of workflows and quality standards.
Qualifications
- Proficiency in operating manual and CNC machines (e.g., mills, lathes) and setting up tooling, fixtures, and workholding systems.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, GD&T symbols, and machining process documentation.
- Strong skills in measuring and inspection using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other precision metrology tools to verify tolerances.
- Experience working with metals and advanced materials, including selection of appropriate cutting parameters and tools for different materials.
- Knowledge of basic machining programming (e.g., G-code, CAM software) or willingness to learn CNC programming and optimization.
- Commitment to safety, housekeeping, and proper use of PPE in a laboratory and manufacturing environment.
- Effective collaboration and communication skills for working with engineers, technicians, and cross-functional teams.
- Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and comfort working on prototypes and small-batch, high-precision components.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certificate or apprenticeship in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field preferred.
- Prior experience in R&D, aerospace,