Title: Science Research Development Model/Tool Maker

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Physics

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

Under general supervision of shop foreman, the Scientific Research and Development Model Maker promotes the research and educational mission of the Physics Machine Shop by the design of unique and complex scientific equipment and apparatus used in sponsored research. This position designs and fabricates this equipment using manual and computer-controlled machines and supports the education of research students by instructing them in the field of machining.

Essential Functions

Manufactures parts and fixtures. Designs and fabricates custom cutters as required to complete the process. Cuts and machines raw stock into finished pieces, grinds and polishes metal surfaces to extremely high precision and joins fabricated materials with a variety of techniques, including welding and brazing.

Produces mechanical drawings using a strong command of trigonometry. Handles intricate and complicated requests requiring long term planning and focus.

Assists and instructs faculty and graduate students in the design of research apparatus and advises on choice of appropriate materials for fabrication. Materials used include commodity grade aluminum, tungsten, copper, high grade platinum, steel, plastics, and machinable ceramics.

Assists in the installation of lab equipment, fabricating supports and other devices to ensure proper calibration and operation. Makes use of woodworking machinery as required.

Teaches students in the Student Machine Shop Course on technical drawing, drafting, use of precision measurement tools, equipment design, and the operation of the shop machinery.

Oversees trained students in the operation of the tools and machinery for their research projects.

May be required to manage machine shop in the absence of shop foreman.

Assists in general maintenance of all shop areas and rooms. Recommends purchase of tools, metal stock and supplies. Maintains in good condition major equipment with occasional repairs. Assists in maintaining job logs and stock records.

Other Functions

Works collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.

Works in partnership with colleagues within the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.

Performs other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Minimum Qualifications

Diploma and/or certification of completion from a formal vocational or technical school or qualified apprenticeship program.

Eight (8) years as a tool maker, tool and die maker, gauge maker or model maker.

Complete knowledge of machine shop equipment, related instruments and tools.

Extensive familiarity with properties of metals, ceramics, plastics and other manufactured materials.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD/CAM software and Mastercam.

Experience with welding.

Additional Details

Direct supervision pertaining to job priority and unusual job requirements will be received from department shop foreman or designee.

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. These values and goals are reflected in the College of Natural Sciences’ Inclusive Excellence framework and in the UMass Amherst’s For the Common Good: 2024–2034 Strategic Plan.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a laboratory or healthcare setting and may involve exposure to chemicals or infectious diseases. Requires standing for extended periods of time and/or use of protective gear.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 27

Click here to view the Professional Staff Hiring Ranges.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.