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, 1st 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.