Machinist and Instrumentation Specialist

Job Title

Machinist and Instrumentation Specialist

Agency

Tarleton State University

Department

Mayfield College of Engineering

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Stephenville, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Machinist & Instrumentation Specialist in the Mayfield College of Engineering. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives—on campus and beyond. Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further.

 

At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff. From a lively live music scene and numerous local festivals to rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community, Stephenville provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

 

No matter where you're located—on campus or online—you are part of a mission that transforms lives and makes a difference across the state of Texas and beyond.

The Machinist & Instrumentation Specialist provides specialized technical expertise in the design, fabrication, repair, and maintenance of mechanical systems, prototypes, scientific instruments, and instructional equipment. This role supports teaching, research, and laboratory operations by ensuring high-quality workmanship, precision, and reliability of custom-made and modified components. Position is on site at the Stephenville campus with work hours of Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm or as work hours indicate. Serves as a Campus Security Authority (CSA).

 

Responsibilities:

40% Fabrication: Design and fabricate custom tools, components, and prototypes to support teaching and research initiatives. Operate advanced manufacturing equipment—including CNC machines, lathes, welding systems, autoclaves, and 3D printers—with a focus on precision and efficiency. Interpret and apply technical drawings while working collaboratively with students, faculty, and researchers to transform engineering concepts into functional solutions. Provide expert guidance on material selection, manufacturability, and design improvements.

 

20% Repair: Applies advanced technical expertise to maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, resolving routine operational issues. Coordinates technical support for more complex problems and assists with the calibration and adjustment of instruments and equipment at the request of faculty and staff.

 

20% Preventative: Manages and schedules preventive maintenance for all laboratory equipment, ensuring proper operation and longevity. When advanced technical support is required, coordinates with equipment vendors, service companies, or campus service units. Oversees maintenance activities, liaises with contractors, and ensures compliance with established standards. Maintains up-to-date procedural manuals, inventories, and records, including a computerized preventive maintenance schedule for all primary departmental equipment.

 

15% Lab safety: Oversees the monitoring of laboratory equipment and facilities, ensuring safety and security standards are upheld. Provides training for faculty, staff, and students in the proper use of lab equipment and associated software. Coordinates the maintenance of safety records, including Tarleton Risk Management documentation, MSDS sheets, and other compliance materials.

 

5% Operations and other duties: Coordinates the procurement of materials, components, and supplies to support laboratories, research projects, and facility operations. Assists with the assembly, installation, and setup of new laboratory equipment, while gaining proficiency in its proper use as needed. Oversees timely technology upgrades to ensure equipment remains current and effective. Other duties: Performs additional duties as assigned to support the Mayfield College of Engineering and its departments, including assistance with laboratory and equipment setup when appropriate.

 

Minimum Requirements

Required Education and Experience:

• Nine years of industry experience in repairing, operating, and maintaining scientific instrumentation with a focus on CNC machining.

 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Oral and written communication skills.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Over 15 years extensive industry experience; including 15 years focused CNC machining experience. 

 

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Salary Range:

The target base hourly rate range is $25.84 up to $36.39 and may be negotiable based on funding availability and candidate experience/skillset in relation to the minimum requirements of this position. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and qualifying part-time employees. Our Careers Page offers an overview of the great benefits we offer; for detailed information visit our Benefits Information page.

 

Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a completed application for consideration. Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.

 

Application Procedure:

During the application process applicants have one opportunity to enter the requested information, upload documents and Submit the application. Applicants will not be able to make changes or add additional documents once the application materials have been submitted via "Submit" action.

 

Employment applications must include:

• Completed online application

• Cover Letter / Letter of Interest addressing qualifications

• Curriculum Vitae or Resume

• At least 3 current professional references and their full contact information

Applications received by Tarleton State University must have all job application data entered. Failure to provide all job application data could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. “See resume” is not an acceptable entry in the job application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.