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Machine Shop Senior Specialist, Missouri Institute for Defense & Energy

University of Missouri-Kansas City
parental leave, paid time off
United States, Missouri, Kansas City
May 14, 2026
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Job ID
59615
Location
Kansas City
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
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Hiring Department

Missouri Institute of Defense and Energy (MIDE) in the Office of Strategic Innovation (OSIN) at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC).

Job Description

The Machine Shop seeks a Senior Specialist to serve as a team lead and help with design and machining of prototypes for University research. The Machine Shop supports campus staff, faculty, students, and the campus research enterprise by advising, designing, and producing highly specified parts. This role serves as a point of escalation for other Machine Shop personnel and advises and co-leads Machine Shop processes and best practices.

Responsibilities include:

  • Program, set up, and operate CNC (Computer Numerical Control) mills, including 3-axis and 5-axis machines, to produce high-precision components
  • Interpret engineering drawings, CAD (Computerized Aided Design) models, and technical specifications to manufacture complex parts
  • Assist in the design and refinement of parts and fixtures to improve manufacturability and efficiency
  • Collaborate with faculty, engineers, and students to translate concepts and research requirements into manufacturable designs and finished components
  • Evaluate existing designs and provide recommendations for improved performance, cost-effectiveness, and ease of manufacturing
  • Provide day-to-day guidance and technical support to shop users, student workers, and junior staff
  • Serve as point of escalation for complex technical troubleshooting for other Machine Shop engineers.
  • Manage work order schedules to support time sensitive requests and long-duration requests.
  • Assist with inventory and raw material tracking. Serve as day-to-day lead for all Machine Shop team members following established safety, compliance, and heavy machinery protocols
  • Other duties as assigned

NOTE: This position is 100% grant funded and contingent on continued grant funding.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.
  • Ability to gain and maintain US security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications

  • NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills Certified)
  • Mastercam Software: Multiaxis certification, Lathe Certification, Core Certification
  • Haas Basic Certified
  • Strongly prefer degree in Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology, CNC Computer Numerical Control Machining, or Manufacturing Technology
  • Strongly prefer 5+ years of machining experience, including programing, setup, and operation of 5-axis Haas, Hurco, and Prototrak products
  • Strongly prefer 2+ years experience working within a university or research-focused environment to produce unique prototypes designed by Staff Engineers, Faculty, and Students
  • Strongly prefer Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA)
Anticipated Hiring Range

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $57,000 - $69,000.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS 9E
University Title: Senior Research Specialist
To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Deadline

Open until filled, review of applications to begin immediately.

Sponsorship Information

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

Community Information

Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.

UMKC's campuses are conveniently nestled in the middle of all the action. Volker Campus is just minutes from the legendary Country Club Plaza, perfect for shopping or restaurants for lunch or after-work happy hours. Surrounded by hip neighborhoods and eateries, the Health Sciences Campus is located downtown near University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital.

UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.

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