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MACHINIST - SR. MACHINIST - Mechanical Systems - Fabrication

Southwest Research Institute
San Antonio, TX Full Time
POSTED ON 10/25/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/24/2026
Who We Are

Step into a machinist role at a R&D institution where every part matters. In the Applied Power Division's machine shop your precision machining skills will be used to fabricate custom, tight-tolerance components for complex mission-critical systems—not repetitive production runs on thousands of identical parts. You'll work side-by-side with shop supervisors and engineers on high-impact programs. Ability to obtain a security clearance is required. By joining our team, you will receive an additional $500.00 in your first paycheck (minus applicable taxes).

Role

Objectives of this Role:

  • Manufacture high-quality, tight-tolerance parts that directly support on-time, successful delivery of customer projects.
  • Work both independently and as part of a collaborative team to complete a variety of machining and fabrication tasks.
  • Develop and strengthen machining skills (manual and CNC) through hands-on work, training, and feedback from experienced staff.
  • Support a safe, organized, and efficient shop environment by following safety procedures and maintaining equipment and workspace.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

  • Manufacture precision, high-quality parts from detailed drawings (with guidance).
  • Inspect your own work for defects and tight tolerances using basic measuring tools, taking pride in meeting strict quality standards.
  • Apply and grow your knowledge of basic machine tool operations and machining processes.
  • Learn how different machines, cutting tools, and setups work together through hands-on experience and on-the-job training.
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance as required and keep a clean, organized, professional workspace. Follow proper machine safety procedures and wear required PPE every day to help maintain a safe shop environment.
  • Operate a variety of mechanical fabrication equipment, including presses, grinders, saws, hand tools, and power tools.
  • Help cut, shape, and finish materials while gaining broad exposure to modern manufacturing processes.
  • Identify issues on the shop floor and suggest improvements to setups, tooling, and workflows.
  • Work with the team to refine processes, improve efficiency, and help maintain our high quality standards.

Requirements:

  • Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Machinist certification and/or related Associate degree is preferred.
  • 2-10 years: Experience of safely operating manual lathes and mills as well as CNC machines, including basic setups, loading/unloading parts, selecting tools, monitoring cuts during production, and maintenance.
  • 2-10 years: Familiarity reading and interpreting engineering drawings and using micrometers, calipers, and other precision tools to check dimensions and verify tight tolerances.
  • 2-10 years: Working knowledge of shop math (fractions, decimals, basic trig helpful), feeds and speeds, cutting tools, and common machining processes such as turning, milling, drilling, and grinding.
  • 2-10 years: Strong attention to detail, consistent part inspection, reliable documentation of work, and adherence to safety procedures and PPE, with a focus on maintaining an organized work area.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Requirements

Special Requirements:

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.

Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas

For more information about this division, visit the Applied Power home page.

For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .

For benefits information at all other locations, click here .

Salary.com Estimation for MACHINIST - SR. MACHINIST - Mechanical Systems - Fabrication in San Antonio, TX
$66,604 to $83,628
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