Oversees all machining, tooling, Computer Aided Design (CAD), Computer Aided Machining (CAM) and Computer Numeric Control (CNC) requirements and decisions for major research programs in SPSE. Administers all machining and tooling estimates, coordinates out-sourcing, and sets up and operates conventional, special purpose, CNC (including 5-axis), numerical control machines, and machining centers to fabricate metallic and non-metallic parts and prototypes to high precision tolerances. Facilitates the development of blueprints, sketches, CAD drawings, manuals, specifications, and sample parts to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished work pieces, sequence of operations, and setup requirements for operations. Manages final prototype deliverables on advanced development programs, ensuring efficient operations, providing essential technical expertise, consulting, and training to internal and external customers.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

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  Coordinates and manages all machine shop activities with SPSE faculty, staff engineers, staff scientists and students for major federal and defense advanced development programs
• Responsible for the quality, timing, economics and delivery for all major machining and tooling needs for federal sponsored programs with NASA, AFRL, ARL, ERDC, and etc.
• Responsible to maintain and exceed all machine shop safety standards and requirements to ensure safe work environment for USM personnel
• Sets up work, programs CAD/CAM files and operates equipment to meet needs and tolerances required by programs; develops, modifies, designs, and tests machined part prototype deliverables.
• Efficiently writes custom programs on CNC machines in the language of the machine’s controller.
• Sets up and proves processes on CNC machines. Determines the sequence of machine operations and selects the proper cutting tools needed to machine work-pieces
• Troubleshoots and resolves manufacturing process issues, fixtures, machines, tooling, etc. Monitors CNC processes and implement proactive solutions, process improvements, line flow, quality, and efficiency.
• Maintains raw material inventory and spare parts, and orders new materials as needed. Keeps records and reports the use of equipment.
• Operates gas and electric welders to install finished assemblies or build metal surfaces of parts for machining and repair.
• Performs routine machine shop maintenance and repair, lubrication and cleaning of machine tools, equipment, and mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
• Calculates and set controls to regulate machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, and depth and angle of cut
• Verifies conformance of finished work to specifications using measuring and inspection tools as necessary
• Apply shop mathematics to practical problems such as computing dimensions, laying out work, CAD, and setting up machine tools. Interpret technical drawings and use knowledge to setup metal working processes; work holding fixtures, process steps, equipment, and tooling selection
• Provide guidance and instruction on equipment and machining processes. Instruct trainees on many aspects of machining and understanding of machine shop safety. Facilitate the training process of internal and external customers
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Able to manage and operate the Machine Shop as a service center for broad needs as desired by the Director, the School of Polymer Science and Engineering
  
• Excellent verbal communication and written presentation skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills.
  
• Able to make independent, technical, and tactical decisions with a high attentiveness to accuracy and detail.
  
• Able to write reports, effectively present information, and respond to questions from administrators, faculty, staff and students.
  
• Able to collect data, define problems, and draw valid conclusions and able to solve complex problems with limited standardizations
  
• Strong CAD/CAM computer programming skills and experience in utilizing business software tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Office, and Outlook.
  
• Skill in operating a CNC milling machine and adhering to strict tolerances of +/-0.003 or better on workpieces.
  
• Skill in AutoCAD and CAM.
  
• Skill in making fixtures and holding devices for CNC milling machines and lathes.
  
• Knowledge of precision measuring instruments and their application. Instruments include, but are not limited to, high viscosity tri-shaft polymerization equipment, prepreg line, autoclave, calipers, inner and outer diameter micrometers, depth gauges, indicators, and height gauges.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a comprehensive public research institution delivering transformative programs on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. Founded in 1910, USM is one of only 131 universities in the nation to earn the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education's "R1: Doctoral Universities - Very high research activity" designation, and its robust research enterprise includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and large event venue safety and security, among others. USM is also one of only 37 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music. As an economic driver, USM generates an annual economic impact of more than $600 million across the state. USM welcomes a diverse student body of more than 14,000, representing 71 countries, all 50 states, and every county in Mississippi. USM students have collected four Truman Scholarships and 37 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, while also leading Mississippi with 27 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists. Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 Division I sports sponsored by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.