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Experimental Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machinist

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Designs fixtures, tooling or experimental parts to meet special engineering needs. Supports ... Knowledge of machinist, CAD and/or CAM software required. Knowledge of mathematics and its ...

Work with all facility employees on improving manufacturing processes through prototyping, fabrication and experimental machining to develop and prove concepts and design and implement necessary ...

Work with all facility employees on improving manufacturing processes through prototyping, fabrication and experimental machining to develop and prove concepts and design and implement necessary ...

Machinist WMS 3W

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$37.51/hr

Work with all facility employees on improving manufacturing processes through prototyping, fabrication and experimental machining to develop and prove concepts and design and implement necessary ...

Work with all facility employees on improving manufacturing processes through prototyping, fabrication and experimental machining to develop and prove concepts and design and implement necessary ...

Machinist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Under general supervision, sets up and operates standard milling machines, lathes, electric welding ... Assists in the design and fabrication of fixtures, tooling, and experimental parts to meet special ...

Machinist WMS 3W

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$35.23 - $37.51/hr

Work with all facility employees on improving manufacturing processes through prototyping, fabrication and experimental machining to develop and prove concepts and design and implement necessary ...

Machinist I

Houston, TX

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Install experimental parts or assemblies, such as hydraulic systems, electrical wiring, lubricants or batteries into machines or mechanisms. * Performs other duties as assigned. EDUCATION ...

Experimental Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Work cross-functionally with plasma physics, machine operations, controls, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and data science teams to support diagnostic readiness for experimental ...

Machinist

Mojave, CA · On-site

$30 - $58/hr

A Machinist will manufacture parts and tools for prototype experimental aircraft in a fast-paced research and development environment. This individual will work with shop and engineering personnel to ...

Machinist

Audubon, MN

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

When requested by engineering, evaluates experimental procedures and recommends changes or ... machines. * Touch up points, copy/paste programs & points, and adjust feed & speed on robots as ...

Showing results 21-40

Experimental Machinist information

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$36

How much do experimental machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for experimental machinist in the United States is $25.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an experimental machinist?

Experimental machinists are skilled professionals who design, fabricate, and modify custom parts, prototypes, and specialized tools, often for research and development purposes. They work closely with engineers and scientists to translate concepts and blueprints into tangible components, frequently using manual and computer-controlled machine tools. Their role requires a high level of precision, adaptability, and problem-solving skills, as they are often tasked with creating unique items that are not produced in standard manufacturing. Experimental machinists are critical in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device development, where innovation and custom solutions are essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an experimental machinist?

To thrive as an Experimental Machinist, you need expertise in precision machining, blueprint reading, and materials science, often supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC machines, manual lathes, milling machines, and CAD/CAM software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set exceptional machinists apart in prototype and custom manufacturing environments. These abilities are crucial for producing accurate, high-quality experimental parts and collaborating closely with engineers to meet exacting specifications.

What are some common challenges experimental machinists face when working on prototype projects?

Experimental Machinists frequently encounter challenges such as dealing with incomplete or evolving design specifications, working with unfamiliar or difficult-to-machine materials, and adapting to frequent design changes. Unlike standard production machinists, they must often use creativity and problem-solving skills to develop custom setups and processes for unique parts. Effective communication with engineers and designers is crucial, as close collaboration helps ensure that prototype components meet the required specifications and timelines.

What is the difference between Experimental Machinist vs Machinist?

AspectExperimental MachinistMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, certifications in precision machiningHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, prototype workshops, aerospace, defense industriesManufacturing plants, machine shops, production facilities
Job FocusDeveloping and testing new machining processes, working on prototypesOperating and maintaining standard machining equipment for production

Experimental Machinists focus on developing new machining techniques and working with prototypes in specialized environments, while Machinists typically operate standard machines in manufacturing settings. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, but their work scope and environments differ significantly.

Are experimental machinists still in demand?

Experimental machinists are still in demand due to their specialized skills in precision machining, often working with complex materials and advanced equipment. Their expertise is valuable in industries such as aerospace, defense, and research, where high accuracy and technical knowledge are essential.
More about Experimental Machinist jobs

What states have the most Experimental Machinist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Experimental Machinist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Experimental Machinist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 65% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,313 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Experimental CNC Machinist III (2nd Shift)

Lockheed Martin Corporation

King Of Prussia, PA • On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Role Overview
As an Experimental CNC Machinist, you will set up, operate, and maintain CNC machining centers to produce precision parts to engineering specifications. You will interpret technical drawings, verify machining programs, inspect finished components, and support continuous improvement of machining processes.
This role supports second shift production operations in a high-precision manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Set up and operate horizontal and vertical CNC machining centers
Machine parts using drilling, milling, boring, tapping, and related operations
Interpret CAD data, blueprints, sketches, and operation sheets to guide machining work
Verify and monitor NC (G-code) programs during machine operation
Select, install, and adjust cutting tools and machine setups as needed
Inspect parts during and after machining using precision measurement tools
Perform secondary operations such as deburring and straightening during machine cycles
Maintain coolant levels and perform basic preventive maintenance on equipment
Provide feedback to manufacturing engineers to improve tooling, fixturing, and processes
Track machining performance and communicate production targets during shift operations
Support flexible scheduling including overtime, weekends, and alternate shifts
Work Environment
Located in King of Prussia, PA
Second shift schedule (2:30 PM - 12:00 AM) on a 9x80 rotation
Production operations environment focused on precision aerospace manufacturing
Hands-on machining work in a fast-paced, schedule-driven setting
Close collaboration with manufacturing engineers and production teams
Why You'll Love This Role
Work on precision components that support advanced aerospace systems
Gain experience with high-end CNC machining technologies and controls
Opportunity to contribute to process improvement and manufacturing efficiency
Structured shift schedule with every other Friday off
About Lockheed Martin Space
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire and integrate our capabilities to transform the future.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We're creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security vision. We're erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We're advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we're reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you.
#SpaceCNC #LMSpaceCNCMachinists

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912