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Posting Information:
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

The internal posting deadline for this position is October 28, 2026, at 11:59PM.” 

Job Description:

Primary Purpose

The CNC Machinist Technician is responsible for precision machining, fabrication, and assembly of research and test equipment which is used in various labs throughout the Engineering Faculty. This is accomplished through the use of both conventional and CNC machine tools. Some projects will include an aspect of planning and design, which will involve consultation and collaboration with the requestor of the project.

Key Accountabilities

Manufacturing

• Program, set-up, and operate both CNC and conventional machine tools to produce precision parts and components as required according to specifications provided.
• Assemble and test various apparatus, equipment and mechanisms, when necessary, as per assignment.
• Design
• Assist with the design aspects of jobs assigned if or when required to assure safety, functionality, cost, and timeline targets will be met with the final product.

Planning

• Come up with a process plan to include any necessary fixtures, special tooling, PPE and/or additional safety apparatus required to complete the job.
• Communication
• Internally, the incumbent will discuss information, problems and possible solutions with students, faculty, and staff members (customers) as necessary to clearly define desired final product expectations for functionality and finish.
• Make recommendations for continuous improvement in efficiencies in the machine shop through enhanced methods and or specialized shop equipment/tooling purchases.
• Report all safety and personnel conflict related issues to the EMS manager.
  

Maintenance and Repair:

• Inspect, repair, and maintain EMS shop equipment in accordance with required operational and safety standards.
• Documentation of all maintenance and inspection items is necessary.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma and Certificate of Qualification (Ontario preferred) in one of the following trades:
• o General Machinist,
• o Tool and Die Maker,
• o Mold Maker.

Experience

• A minimum of 5-7 years’ experience in the programming and operation of CNC equipment and the ability to operate manual machinery found in the Engineering Machine Shop.
• Previous design experience required.
• Extensive experience working with numerous and varied materials including metals, plastics, composites, and wood.
• Prior experience in a mentoring role is an asset.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of CAD/CAM systems which includes MasterCam, ability to set-up, program and operate CNC machines using controllers, estimating experience as well as material selection proficiency.
• Proficiency in the use of CAD/CAM and solid modelling software for design, tool-pathing, and customer file evaluation and validation.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Good problem-solving skills and ability to offer creative solutions.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Experience using SolidWorks is an asset.

Equity Statement

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is coordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.

The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion.  As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuk (Inuit), Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.

Positions are open to qualified candidates who are legally entitled to work in Canada.

The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources at [email protected] or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.