Lead Machinist

Job Highlights

Title	Lead Machinist
Type	Full Time
Experience	7 Years
Function	Manufacturing
Location	Albuquerque, NM, United States
Company	Kairos Power

Company Profile

Kairos Power is a mission-driven engineering and new nuclear energy technology company. It focuses on the delivery of a clean, affordable, and safe energy solution through the integrated design, licensing, and demonstration of advanced reactor technology.

Job Profile

The company is Lead Machinist who will oversee daily machining operations, provide technical guidance to the machining team, and ensure production quality and efficiency.

This role involves hands-on operation and programming of CNC mills and lathes, schedule planning, and coordination of workflow across the shop floor.

Responsible for upholding safety, quality, and performance standards while fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.

Education Level

• High School Diploma or GED

Work Experience

• 7+ years related experience or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience in using or programming manual, semi-automated, or automated tools and machines (lathes, mills, grinders, etc.)
• Experience using CAM software (e.g., MasterCam) for programming CNC machines.

License/Certification

• Capable of obtaining forklift and boom lift certification

Duties/Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineers and other departments to resolve technical issues and improve workflows.
• Create, modify, and troubleshoot NC programs using CAM software.
• Ensure all parts are clean and properly prepared for shipment or further processing.
• Establish work coordinate systems, tooling offsets, and work holding solutions for efficient setups.
• Inspect parts during and after machining to ensure conformance to specifications and ISO standards.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to ensure product compliance.
• Maintain detailed job records, inspection reports, and other production documentation.
• Monitor machining processes to maintain dimensional accuracy and adherence to tolerances.
• Monitor machinist performance and provide feedback or coaching to promote skill development and accountability.
• Oversee machine maintenance and ensure equipment is in safe working condition.
• Perform complex machining operations using 3- and 5-axis CNC mills and CNC lathes.
• Plan and delegate daily machining tasks based on production schedules and priorities.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and technical guidance to the machining operations team.
• Select appropriate tools, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters based on material and part geometry.
• Support inventory control and material traceability throughout the machining process.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities

• Ability to proactively collect, manage, and transfer knowledge.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and manuals. Understanding GD&T callouts and dimensioning.
• Ability to seek different and novel ways to create efficiencies when working on problems, challenges, and issues.
• Ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
• Ability to use precision tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers) to take accurate measurements
• Ability to work with a highly collaborative team.
• Competence in managing tooling inventory, setup sheets, and job documentation.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or other quality management systems is desired.
• Familiarity with shop floor management tools or ERP/MRP systems for tracking work orders and production status.
• Good at math with analytical abilities
• Knowledge of the properties of metals and other materials
• Prioritizes and ensures the safety of oneself and others.
• Understanding of machining-related safety standards.

Work Environment

• Accessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned
• High temperatures
• High-concentration, demanding, and fast-paced
• Low temperatures
• Noisy environments
• Outdoor environment or elements such as precipitation and wind
• Some travel may be required, up to 10%

Safety/PPE

• Reading and interpreting hazardous warning signs
• Reporting issues with equipment or unsafe conditions
• Wearing proper PPE, including face masks, face shields, gloves, and safety shoes

Physical Demands

• Adjusting, moving, transporting, installing, positioning, or removing objects up to 50 pounds in all directions
• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, scissor lifts, articulated boom lifts, and the like.
• Communicating with others to exchange information
• Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another
• Moving oneself in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments, including tight and confined spaces
• Operating motor vehicles, heavy equipment, or machinery
• Remaining in a stationary position for prolonged periods
• Repetitive assembly operations of manufacturing test fixtures and test setups in collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams
• Use of hand tools

Benefits/Perks

• 401(k) and pre-tax health insurance, dependent care, and commuter benefits (FSA)
• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits for employees and their dependents
• Paid Vacation

Employer’s Statement

Kairos Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer.