Machine Shop Manager, AIDC Core

Overview

The Machine Shop Manager engages with the Yale research community to support cutting-edge technology in the Advanced Instrumentation Development Center (AIDC). The AIDC is a Research Core providing advanced instrumentation, technical expertise, and facilities in machining, electronics, and prototyping to enable cutting-edge scientific research.

The focus of this position is on professional machining. The Machine Shop Manager will lead a team of professional machinists to provide complex parts and assemblies for researchers. Fabrication techniques include CNC machining (mill and lathe), with 3-axis and 5-axis control, as well as welding and finishing. The Machine Shop Manager will coordinate the professional machining work, contribute expertise, and review drawings for feasibility, scope, and accuracy. A portion of the position focuses on hands-on activities such as CNC machining and staff training.

The Machine Shop Manager will assist with Core operational management and administrative tasks, interface with internal and external stakeholders to maintain safe, efficient, and effective Core operations and support core strategic planning efforts. This position requires a strong interest in physical sciences and engineering with significant hands-on experience fabricating complex instrumentation.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Proven ability to engage with students and researchers on new projects to understand the scope and feasibility of jobs and converge on an actionable path to deliver high-quality parts in a timely manner.
2. Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a machine shop team in a fast-paced, technical environment. The successful candidate is a self-directed leader with a proven track record of guiding teams to solve complex machining challenges, effectively organizing workflow, job queues, and priorities, and managing operational needs including procurement of materials, tooling, fasteners, and other specialty items.
3. Demonstrated ability to establish, maintain, and enforce a safe, efficient, and well-organized machine shop environment. The Machine Shop Manager sets and upholds standards for equipment safety, regulatory compliance, and shop cleanliness, effectively delegating responsibilities while ensuring consistent adherence across the team.
4. Broad and in-depth knowledge of machining and mechanical design, with the ability to provide hands-on training and mentorship to professional machinists. Demonstrated capability to evaluate initial CAD designs for manufacturability, provide technical feedback, develop and validate CNC programs, and oversee or perform the machining and finishing of complex parts to high-quality standards.
5. Strong interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills and ability to effectively train staff on proper procedures and methods in advanced machining.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Expertise with CAD/CAM software and GD&T standards.
2. Experience managing a team in a high-precision machining environment.
3. Expertise in 5 axis CNC machining.

Preferred Education and Experience

1. A Bachelor’s degree or technical degree in a related field (e.g. CNC machining)
2. Five years of related experience in a professional machine shop, research development facility, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Principal Responsibilities

1. User Training: Refine training methodologies and train and mentor users of the research core, providing guidance and expertise.
2. Experiment Support: Collaborate closely with researchers and lead complex projects requiring customized solutions within the research core.
3. Facility/Instrument Support: Lead and manage research projects within the research core.
4. Technique Development: Contribute to the development of research strategies within the research core and evaluate and implement cutting-edge technologies and methodologies.
5. Data Analysis/Interpretation: Analyze and interpret complex scientific data, providing critical insights and recommendations.
6. Equipment Procurement: Assist in the evaluation, acquisition, and maintenance of research core equipment.
7. Professional Development: Stay updated with emerging research trends and technologies. Participate and present in professional development activities and scientific conferences, representing the research core at conferences and events.
8. Scientific Participation: Collaborate with users on manuscript preparation and grant proposals, as applicable.
9. Staff Training and Mentoring: Mentor and support junior staff members in their professional growth.
10. Leadership: Collaborate with senior core leadership on research core-related initiatives.
11. Finance and Admin: Support the Core Director with development and implementation of strategic plans and budgets for the research core.
12. Vendor Relations: Oversees strategic vendor partnerships, manages negotiations, and evaluates vendor performance for the research core.
13. Education and Outreach: Develop education and outreach activities within the core, including tours, events, etc..

Required Education and Experience

Master's Degree in a related discipline and five years of related experience or an equivalent combination of skills, education, and experience.

Job Posting Date

02/21/2026

Job Category

Professional

Bargaining Unit

NON

Compensation Grade

Administration & Operations

Compensation Grade Profile

Manager; Program Leader (26)

Salary Range

$92,000.00 - $146,750.00

Time Type

Full time

Duration Type

Staff

Work Model

On-site